A brand new study published October 10 within the journal Zoologica Research has revealed the existence of a newly discovered species of lizard in Laos that coincidentally bears a resemblance to the mythical creature, the dragon. The discovery aroused great interest amongst ecologists and wildlife conservationists.
A team of scientists from the National University of Laos and the China Zoological Research Institute have been conducting thorough research for the reason that first discovery of the species in August 2022. The discovery site is in the course of a limestone karst landscape in central Laos.
The newly identified species of lizard, named Laodracon carsticola, is usually unofficially nicknamed the “Kammouane Karst Dragon” as a result of its resemblance to the mythical dragon. This species can be the one representative of the genus Laodracon present in this region.
Scientists also named the brand new species after the environment wherein it was found. According to the study, the name “Carsticola” comes from a mixture of the German word for limestone, “karst,” and the Latin word for inhabitant, “cola.”
Interestingly, this lizard is clearly different from other lizard species as a result of its long tail and really distinctive scale patterns. In fact, as a result of differences in DNA and unique physical characteristics, the research team classified this lizard right into a latest genus called Laodracon, also referred to as “Lao karst dragons.”
According to the findings, the body size of the Khammouane karst dragon could be classified as “medium”, with a length of about 1 foot. This species also has unique features, including a “triangular” head, “slender and long” body, “bluish-gray” eyes, and rough-textured scales. The lizard’s body is usually black with a number of distinct white stripes decorating its back, and white spots decorate its head and limbs. The underside of the body and the realm under the throat are a subtle shade of blue.
These lizards even have interesting behaviors. They are likely to remain still and mix into the shadow and lightweight around them. This makes them difficult to identify until they move. Meanwhile, the study also mentioned that Khammouane karst dragons are sometimes seen climbing or perching on rock peaks starting from 50 to 70 meters high.
The presence of this dragon-like lizard species amidst the fragile karst habitat attracted the eye of locals who observed its rare habit of being most energetic within the afternoon. The discovery of this lizard in a limestone karst environment reflects the region’s incredible yet delicate biodiversity. Limestone karst areas are known to be home to unique species, often threatened by destructive human activities reminiscent of deforestation and mining.
Conservation experts say it’s urgent to guard these delicate ecosystems. The act of protecting this habitat is meant not only to make sure the survival of the newly discovered dragon-like lizard, but additionally to save lots of the varied range of other species that depend upon this limestone karst habitat. In this case, protecting the natural habitat is essential to maintaining the sustainability and survival of those amazing creatures.
