A new Andean lizard of the genus Potamites (Sauria, Gymnophthalmidae) from Manu National Park, southeastern Peru

Researchers have identified a new species of lizard belonging to the genus Potamites in the montane forests of Manu National Park, Peru. This discovery, described from elevations between 1000 and 2100 meters, distinguishes itself through unique morphological traits such as scattered keeled scales on its dorsum, an undivided frontonasal bone, and the absence of femoral pores in females. The study highlights the biodiversity richness of the Cordillera de Paucartambo and upper Kosñipata valley regions, contributing to our understanding of Andean lizard diversity within UNESCO-listed Manu National Park.

CHÁVEZ, G., & CATENAZZI, A. (2014). A new Andean lizard of the genus Potamites (Sauria, Gymnophthalmidae) from Manu National Park, southeastern Peru. Zootaxa, 3774(1). https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.3774.1.3