Sitana ponticeriana Cuvier, 1829

Common Name and Taxonomic Placement

Sitana ponticeriana, commonly known as the Pondichéry fan-throated lizard, is a species of agamid lizard native to eastern peninsular India.

Taxonomic Revision History

It was previously believed to have a wide distribution range, but studies conducted in 2016 split the original group into several species that are now placed in two different genera.

Genus Diagnostic Character

Members of the genus Sitana have an enlarged projecting scale on the posterior side of the hind thigh, a feature that is absent in the closely related sister genus Sarada.

Typical Habitat

This species is most often found living on the ground in open patches within thin forests.

Locomotion When Disturbed

When disturbed, this lizard will sometimes run using a bipedal gait.

Species Distribution Range

In terms of distribution, Sitana ponticeriana occurs across the eastern parts of peninsular India, along the Coromandel Coast, and it may also be present in parts of Sri Lanka.

New Sitana Species Discovery

Additionally, researchers have discovered new colourful fan-throated lizard species from the coastal areas of Thiruvananthapuram that belong to the genus Sitana. These new species are Sitana attenboroughii, named after veteran broadcaster and naturalist David Attenborough, and Sitana marudhamneydhal.