Science

Researchers identify new lizard species in Thailand named after fictional dragon Syrax

Scientists discovered Acanthosaura syrax in high-elevation forests, noting distinct genetic and physical traits similar to the pop culture creature.

Updated Aug 24, 2026 · 14:19 UTC1 reports

The short version

Researchers led by Poramad Trivalairat identified a new mountain horned lizard species, Acanthosaura syrax, in western Thailand's Mae Wong National Park.
The species was named after a fictional dragon due to its yellowish-green skin, small body size, and relatively large egg clutches.
Genetic testing confirmed the lizard is a distinct species residing in high-altitude evergreen forests above 1,300 meters.
Conservationists suggest the newly documented lizard could serve as a flagship species to help protect its isolated habitat.

A team led by Poramad Trivalairat from Chulabhorn Royal Academy and Kasetsart University identified the new lizard species Acanthosaura syrax in Mae Wong National Park.[ScienceDaily]
The discovery brings the total number of recognized species in the genus Acanthosaura to 23.[ScienceDaily]
Genetic analysis of two genes confirmed that A. syrax is distinct from its closest relative, A. lepidogaster.[ScienceDaily]
The lizard features a dark collar marking and the smallest neck and back crest scales documented in its genus, while lacking the black eye patch seen in related species.[ScienceDaily]
The findings were published in the peer-reviewed open-access journal ZooKeys.[ScienceDaily]

It remains unknown whether A. syrax exists outside the specific narrow high-elevation forest zone where it was initially discovered.[ScienceDaily]