New lizard species discovered in Peru's Andes

Scientists have discovered a new lizard species in the Peruvian Andes, the Natural History Museum of San Marcos University said Saturday.

The species, named Liolaemus archipensis, was found at an altitude of more than 4,800 meters in the southern Andean region of Arequipa. The discovery was published in the Swiss scientific journal Diversity.

The lizard measures between six and eight centimeters. Females have square-shaped spots on their backs, while males have oblique spots and white scales that help them blend into rocky surroundings.

The lizard feeds on plants and small arthropods, including spiders, beetles, true bugs and insect larvae. Biologist Ling Huamani-Valderrama, who led the research, told AFP that describing a new species was an important advance for biodiversity in Peru. She said Peru is home to 296 species of lizard.