New Lizard Species Discovered in Peru's High Andes
Researchers have identified a previously unknown lizard species in the southern Arequipa region of Peru, naming it Liolaemus archipensis.
The discovery was made at an altitude above 4,800 meters in the Andes. Females display square spots on their backs, while males have slanted spots and white scales that blend with the rocky terrain. The lizard feeds on plants and small invertebrates such as spiders, beetles and insect larvae. Ling Huamani-Valderrama of San Marcos-universitetet led the team that described the species.
Why it matters
The new species adds to Peru's rich biodiversity and underscores the value of high-altitude ecological research.
In this story
new speciesLiolaemus archipensishigh altitudeAndesbiodiversitylizardPeruresearch
