Iguana (/, Spanish: [i ˈ ɣwana]) is a genus of herbivorous lizards that are native to the tropical areas of Mexico, Central America, South America and the Caribbean, among others. The genus was first described in 1768 by Austrian naturalist Josephus Nicolaus Laurenti in his book Medicum specimen, displays Synopsin reptilium emendataming the experimententis around Venena. Two type are included in the genus Iguana: The Green Iguana, which is extended over its range and a popular mascot, and the Lesser Antillean Iguana, which is native to the small Antilles and in danger due to habitat destruction and hybridization with Intr Odujo Green iguanas.

The word “Iguana ” is derived from the original name of Taino for the species, Iwana.

In addition to the two type of the genus Iguana, several other related genera in the alike family have common names of the species, including the word “Iguana “.


Iguanas can range from 1.5 to 1.8 meters (5 to 6 feet) in length, including your tail. The two type of lizards within the genus Iguana have a dewlap, a row of thorns running down the back for their tails, and a small “Third eye ” on their heads. This light-sensitive organ is known as the parietal eye, visible as a pale scale in the upper part of the head, and can not make details, just the glare. Behind their necks are small scales resembling rays, known as tuberculated scales. These scales can be a variety of colors and are not always visible from nearby distances. They have a large round scale on their cheeks known as a sub-timpanum shield.
