New colorful lizard discovered in Nayarit: Sceloporus mendezdelacruzi

An exciting discovery has put Nayarit back on the global biodiversity map. Mexican and international researchers confirmed the discovery of a new endemic lizard species , named Sceloporus mendezdelacruzi , in the Sierra de San Juan , a region of great biological wealth and unique ecosystems in western Mexico.

This reptile stands out not only for its unique beauty but also for the scientific importance of its identification. It was named after the renowned herpetologist Dr. Fausto Méndez de la Cruz , a key figure in the study of Mexican reptiles.

It all began by chance. Jesús Alberto Loc Barragán , a graduate of the Autonomous University of Nayarit, captured a lizard with a deep yellow belly on his camera, leading him to suspect it was something unusual. He immediately contacted Víctor Hugo Jiménez Arcos , a researcher at the UNAM's Iztacala School of Higher Studies, who organized the scientific analysis.

The project was carried out in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team comprised of specialists from the UNAM Institute of Biology , the Center for Genomic Sciences , and the City University of New York . Morphological and genetic studies left no room for doubt: this was a new species never before described .

Sceloporus mendezdelacruzi has striking characteristics, including its intense yellow belly , a feature that had not been documented in any other species of the genus and which is considered a secondary sexual characteristic, most visible during the reproductive season from March to July.

Furthermore, it shows particular microscopic details in its scales, with between two and four loreal scales and 15 to 19 femoral pores on each side , elements that confirmed its differentiation from other similar species.

Although the Sierra de San Juan is classified as a state-protected natural area , its biodiversity faces multiple threats. These include climate change , increasing urbanization , and agricultural expansion , which are progressively reducing the available habitat for reptiles and other wildlife.

Just two months ago, a forest fire destroyed part of the area where this new lizard was found, putting its natural environment at risk.

The identification of Sceloporus mendezdelacruzi reinforces the need to preserve unique ecosystems like the Sierra de San Juan. This region hosts varied microclimates that allow for the evolution of endemic species, many of which have yet to be discovered. In fact, the same scientific team reported investigating four other reptile species potentially new to the area.

Thanks to joint efforts between universities, institutions, and local communities, knowledge of Mexican biodiversity continues to grow, offering valuable insights into its conservation and sustainable use.

The discovery of Sceloporus mendezdelacruzi confirms that Mexico remains one of the most fascinating megadiverse countries in the world. Beyond its beauty, this new species represents a wake-up call regarding the urgent need to protect its habitats and protect them from environmental degradation.

Science and society, together, have the opportunity to continue revealing and preserving the living treasures our territory holds.