|
|
|
|
Family Helodermatidae Genus Heloderma Beaded lizards: Venomous
There are but two recognized species in this genus, restricted to Arizona and western coastal Mexico, with another taxon in Guatemala. These lizards are characterized by a blunt head with large labial scales, bead-like scales, and grooved teeth that conduct venom from glands in the lower jaws. These are the only known venomous lizards on earth. Fossils from this genus are known from as long ago as the upper Cretaceous (about 65-80 million years ago). Species:
Heloderma horridum Mexican beaded
lizard |
|
|
Left: Gila
monster.