How to Identify Iguanidae

Key Identification Features

• Ctenosaura pectinata has distinctive keeled scales on its long tail, which is the reference for its common name.
• The species has distinctive black feet that contrast with its lighter overall body color.
• Commonly known as the Mexican spiny-tailed iguana, Ctenosaura acanthura (Shaw, 1802) gets its common name from the distinctive keeled scales covering its long tail.
• acanthura can also be distinguished by its very thorny tail whorl scales, which have keels at an angle greater than 30 degrees.

For instant identification in the field, use the iNature app — AI-powered, works offline.