VARANOIDEA- Varanids and Helodermids
Varanoidea is a superfamily of lizards containing three extant families: Varanidae, Helodermidae and Lanthanotidae. Extinct members of varanoidea include the marine Mosasaur from the Mesozoic era. Although there is little physical or behavioral resemblances DNA analysis shows a close relationship. The only venomous lizards belong to the varanoidea the two Heloderma species and a few species of Varanus.
The family Varanidae is made up of the familiar monitor lizards. This lizards are very active and highly intelligent. Varanids have a higher maximum body temperature than other lizards. There are 50 species of monitors restricted to Africa, Southeast Asia and Australia
Helodermidae contains only one genus and two species. The family is restricted to the southwest United States and Mexico. The venom of this family is much stronger than that possessed by the varanids.
The final living family of varanoidea is Lanthanotidae. This family contains the single species Lanthanotus borneensis commonly named the Earless Monitor. Little is known of this lizard that lives in burrows and feeds on earthworms.
The family Varanidae is made up of the familiar monitor lizards. This lizards are very active and highly intelligent. Varanids have a higher maximum body temperature than other lizards. There are 50 species of monitors restricted to Africa, Southeast Asia and Australia
Helodermidae contains only one genus and two species. The family is restricted to the southwest United States and Mexico. The venom of this family is much stronger than that possessed by the varanids.
The final living family of varanoidea is Lanthanotidae. This family contains the single species Lanthanotus borneensis commonly named the Earless Monitor. Little is known of this lizard that lives in burrows and feeds on earthworms.
Komodo Dragon
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Water Monitor
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Green Tree Monitor
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Beaded Lizard
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Gila Monster
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