A new species of Andean lizard Proctoporus (Squamata: Gymnophthalmidae) from montane forest of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, Peru

Researchers have identified a new species of Andean lizard, Proctoporus, within the montane forests of Peru's Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. This discovery, published in 2015, distinguishes the species through unique morphological traits, including scalation and color patterns, setting it apart from other known Proctoporus species. The lizard inhabits elevations between 2,760–2,800 meters, contributing to the biodiversity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The study employed a combination of morphometric analysis and detailed examination of physical characteristics to validate the new species. This finding underscores the importance of high-altitude montane forests as critical habitats for endemic reptile diversity.

Mamani, L., Goicoechea, N., & Chaparro, J. C. (2015). A new species of Andean lizard Proctoporus (Squamata: Gymnophthalmidae) from montane forest of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, Peru [Dataset]. Plazi.org taxonomic treatments database. https://doi.org/10.15468/5NW6W2