Scientists Discover Never-Before-Seen Lizard Species in Pakistan

For context, an international team of researchers has discovered a new lizard species in Balochistan's Chagai District.

Key points

• Researchers documented the lizard at four locations during field surveys conducted between 2022 and 2025.
• The research was led by Rafaqat Masroor of the Pakistan Museum of Natural History.
• Researchers initially noticed that the newly discovered lizard closely resembled Eremias graphica, a species identified in Iran in 2023.
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• Fasciata as its closest relative in the mitochondrial analysis, with approximately 10.6 percent genetic differences between the two species in the genes examined.

For context, the species, named Eremias chagaiensis, was discovered on low sand dunes and is distinguished by its maze-like brown markings throughout its back.

Researchers documented the lizard at four locations during field surveys conducted between 2022 and 2025. Its body measures up to 5.7 centimeters, excluding its tail. It can grow more than twice as long as its body.

Unlike other racerunner lizards that typically have lengthwise stripes, the newly discovered species has winding brown patterns that remain visible in both young and adult lizards.

For context, the research was led by Rafaqat Masroor of the Pakistan Museum of Natural History. This person remarked the discovery highlights how little is known concerning the region's wildlife.

"Balochistan's deserts are among the least explored places in South Asia. Finding a new lizard here tells us how much is still undocumented, " Masroor remarked.

Meanwhile, the study additionally confirmed the presence of another lizard species, Eremias fasciata, in Pakistan through modern specimen examination and DNA analysis, more than a century after it was first reportedly recorded in the country. Quail Farming Emerges as Growing Business in Punjab.

Researchers initially noticed that the newly discovered lizard closely resembled Eremias graphica, a species identified in Iran in 2023. Nevertheless, genetic analysis of two mitochondrial genes and one nuclear gene, along with comparisons of body proportions and scales, confirmed that it represents a distinct species.

For context, the findings additionally identified E. Fasciata as its closest relative in the mitochondrial analysis, with approximately 10.6 percent genetic differences between the two species in the genes examined.

For context, the researchers discovered the new species primarily in loose sand, particularly on low dunes and sandy patches near desert shrubs, where the lizards dig burrows. It was absent from nearby gravel plains. It were inhabited by E. Fasciata. Stay Connected with ProPakistani. Obtain the latest news and stories wherever you prefer. Follow on Google Discover. Follow on Google News Join WhatsApp. See more ProPakistani stories in Google Search and Top Stories.

Taken together, the developments around scientists Discover Never-Before-Seen Lizard Species in Pakistan point to a situation that is still moving, and the coming days should bring more clarity.