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Posted: 18th January 2013

Colourful lizard species identified
Lizard was until recently confused with another species

Scientists have identified a new brightly coloured lizard in Vietnam, named Calotes bachae. The lizard was previously thought to be another species of blue lizard found in Southeast Asia. According to an article published in the January issue of Zootaxa, the new species looks almost identical to the Calotes mystaceus.

The lizard has now been found to belong to a new species after a survey of reptiles and amphibians in Vietnam's Cat Tien National Park. Specimens of the blue lizard were shared with Russian scientists who were building a DNA barcoding database of all amphibian and reptile species from Vietnam.

The barcoding compares specific genetic markers, and it was discovered that significant genetic differences existed between the Calotes mystaceus and the species that is now known as Calotes bachae.

The newly identified lizard measure up to 11 inches in length, and become particularly vivid during the mating season to attract females, ranging from cobalt blue to turquoise. Even in the deep Vietnamese forest their striking colours can be seen from far away in the daytime. At night, however, they become dark brown, "showing no coloration at all," says article lead author Timo Hartman.

The lizard has so far been found in open areas of Cat Tien National Park, dense tropical forests in Bu Gia Map National Park and even in parks in downtown Ho Chi Minh City.

Further research has uncovered differences between the new species and Calotes mystaceus that can be perceived by eye. According to Hartmann the new species have faint brown blotches on its back and a yellow moustache-like marking on its face. The Calotes mystaceus however, has dark brown spots and a white moustache. These differences become more apparent during mating season, he adds.

It is suspected by researchers that many other lizard species are yet to be discovered. Hartmann says: "I am sure that in Southeast Asia in general there are still many more new lizard species to discover."



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