New lizard species discovered in Peru

Scientists have unveiled a new species of lizard dwelling in the Peruvian Andes, the Natural History Museum of San Marcos University announced on Saturday. The diminutive creature, measuring six to eight centimeters in length, displays distinct coloration based on its sex. Female specimens present square-shaped spots on their backs, whereas males showcase oblique spots and white scales that enable them to camouflage with their rocky habitat.

The lizard's diet consists of plants and small arthropods, which includes spiders, beetles, true bugs, and insect larvae. This newfound species was discovered at an elevation surpassing 4,800 meters in the southern Andean region of Arequipa, and has been officially named Liolaemus archipensis. Biologist Ling Huamani-Valderrama, who spearheaded the research, highlighted the significance of the discovery, stating that the description of a new species represents a crucial advancement in understanding Peru's biodiversity.

According to Huamani-Valderrama, Peru is currently home to 296 lizard species. The research findings were published in the Swiss scientific journal Diversity.