A lizard species that weighs barely 16 gram and has remained practically unchanged for the past six million years has been found in Australia, a media report said Wednesday.
Scientists discovered the world's smallest goanna lizard in Australia's Kimberley region.
The new species grows to just 23 cm and weighs only 16 gm, while other goanna species can grow to over three metres in length.
The Dampier Peninsula goanna, or Varanus Sparnus, is the 26th goanna species identified in Australia and the 1,001st overall reptile species, Xinhua reported.
Scientists believe it has remained unchanged for over six million years.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app