To the surprise of researchers, they discovered a **[new species](https://noticiasambientales.com/ciencia/encontraron-nueva-especie-de-grillo-en-la-patagonia-como-es-el-insecto/)** of lizard in Patagonia. It was identified in an extensive region of volcanic lava fields.
It was named *Diplolaemus vulcanus*, or **vulcanian lizard**. The discovery was made by a group of researchers who carried out **extensive explorations in the region** between 2005 and 2011.
## Surprise in Patagonia: they discovered a new species of lizard
While the objective was to locate uncommon fauna species, scientists initially misclassified these animals as part of an already known species.
However, according to a study published on December 16 in the journal *Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution*, a subsequent genetic analysis revealed something different. These **volcanic lizards** constituted a genetically distinct group.
Genetic research was key to clarify the differences. After the results, they carefully reexamined the specimens and detected consistent physical peculiarities, such as **prominent nostril pits** and elongated snouts.
These distinctive features confirmed the existence of a new species.
## What the vulcanian lizard is like
The vulcanian lizard reaches **up to 20 centimeters in length**. It has a pattern of **brown and toasted colors** that blends with the rocky environment of volcanic plains, although not enough to go unnoticed by experts.
**Juan Vrdoljak**, co-author of the study, explained that, although little is known about the species’ ecology, it probably shares similar **carnivorous habits** with other members of its genus. Thus, it would feed on **insects and occasionally other lizards**.
The habitat is located at **altitudes above 1700 meters** in the province of **Neuquén**, and in areas near the border with **Chile**.
Its scientific name, inspired by Vulcan, the Roman god of fire, directly refers to its **preference for volcanic terrains**.
This finding adds to decades of research conducted by the **Patagonian Herpetology Group**, whose members have extensively explored the region and generated numerous hypotheses about the diversity of local fauna.
Among the main researchers are also **Kevin Imanol Sánchez, Andrea González-Marín, Mariana Morando, Luciano Javier Ávila**.
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