Iguana
Iguana (/ɪˈɡwɑːnə/,[3][4] Spanish: [iˈɣwana]) is a genus of herbivorous lizards that are native to tropical areas of Mexico, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. The genus was first described in 1768 by Austrian naturalist Josephus Nicolaus Laurenti in his book Specimen Medicum, Exhibens Synopsin Reptilium Emendatam cum Experimentis circa Venena. Two species are placed in the genus, the green iguana, which is widespread throughout its range and a popular pet, and the Lesser Antillean iguana, which is native to the Lesser Antilles. Genetic analysis indicates that the green iguana may comprise a complex of multiple species, some of which have been recently described, but the Reptile Database considers all of these as subspecies of the green iguana.[5][6]
The word "iguana" is derived from the original Taino name for the species, iwana.[7]In addition to the two species in the genus Iguana, several other related genera in the same family have common names of the species including the word "iguana".[8]
The species is a popular quarry for pets, and has been widely introduced beyond its native area, into Ishigaki Island, Florida Peninsula, and Hawaii.
Iguanas can range from 1.5 to 1.8 m (5 to 6 ft) in length, including their tails. These lizards possess a dewlap and a row of elongated scales running from the midline of their necks down to their tails. Iguanas have varying types of scales covering different areas of their body, for example, some large, round tuberculate scales are scattered around the lateral region of the neck among smaller, overlapping scales.[9] The scales on the dorsal trunk of their bodies are also thicker and more tightly packed than those on the ventral sides.[9] These scales may be a variety of colors and are not always visible from close distances. They have a large, round scale on their cheeks known as a subtympanic shield.[10]
Iguanas have keen vision and can see shapes, shadows, colors, and movement at long distances. Their visual acuity enables them to navigate through crowded forests and to locate food. They employ visual signals to communicate with other members of the same species.[10]
The tympanum, the iguana's eardrum, is located above the subtympanic shield (or "ear shield") behind each eye.
