New 'dragon lizard' species with impressive camouflage capabilities found in Southeast Asia

An international team of biologists, animal management specialists, geneticists and forestry managers has discovered a new species of "dragon lizard" in Laos—one with very impressive camouflage capabilities. In their paper published in the journal Zoological Research, the group describes how the lizards were found and what they learned from two samples they captured.

So called "dragon lizards" have been known in parts of Laos for many years—they are of the Agamidae family and as their name suggests, slightly resemble fictional dragons. The new species was found living on the pinnacles of an outcrop of limestone in what is known as a karst landscape in Khammouan Province.

The first was spotted by a photographer from the National University of Laos who was out looking for exotic birds late last year. A guide escorting tourists there for zipline rides spotted a second one climbing around on the rocks soon thereafter. The second lizard was eventually captured, as was another when the team of researchers visited the site. Both have been extensively examined.

The lizards have impressive camouflage capabilities—their black and gray scale patterns match the rocks upon which they climb. The researchers note that unless they move, it is almost impossible to spot them. Both specimens were approximately 15 centimeters long. They also had blue/gray eyes and some red and blue spots and rough skin, an asset for a creature that climbs around on coarse rock.

They also had unique swollen tail bases. Genetic testing showed the lizards to be of an entirely new genus belonging to the subfamily Agamidae. The team named it Laodracon carsticola, and suggest the common name Khammouan karst dragon. Initial study of the lizards suggests they survive on ants.

Karst habitats are typically home to caves and hills due to underground water dissolving the rock, resulting in the creation of homes for a wide variety of creatures—such habitats are known for their rich diversity.

The researchers also spoke to locals in the area who said the lizard was rare—none had seen it anywhere but on the outcrop upon which it was officially observed.

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