Scientists have discovered a new lizard species in the Peruvian Andes, marking another addition to the country’s rich biodiversity.
The Natural History Museum of San Marcos University announced the discovery of the species, named Liolaemus archipensis. Researchers found the lizard at an altitude exceeding 4,800 meters in Peru’s southern Andean region of Arequipa.
The newly identified lizard measures between six and eight centimetres in length. Researchers also observed distinct physical differences between males and females.
Lizard Shows Distinct Features By Sex
Female lizards have square-shaped markings across their backs, while males display oblique spots. Males also have white scales that help them blend into the rocky environment surrounding their high-altitude habitat.
The species has a varied diet despite living in harsh conditions. It feeds on plants and small arthropods, including spiders, beetles, true bugs and insect larvae.
The discovery highlights the biodiversity found in some of Peru’s most challenging environments. According to biologist Ling Huamani-Valderrama, who led the research, identifying a new species represents an important step for understanding the country’s biodiversity.
Discovery Adds To Peru’s Lizard Diversity
Huamani-Valderrama told AFP that the discovery contributes to scientific knowledge about Peru’s wildlife. The country is already home to 296 known lizard species, according to the biologist.
The research documenting Liolaemus archipensis was published in the Swiss scientific journal Diversity. Scientists say continued exploration of remote Andean ecosystems could reveal further species adapted to extreme environments.
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