Lacerta (genus)
Lacerta is a genus of lizards in the family Lacertidae.
- field
- Herpetology
- known_for
- Type genus of the family Lacertidae; historically contained many species later reclassified
- earliest_fossil_epoch
- Early Miocene
- notable_fossil_species
- Lacerta siculimelitensis
Lore & Background
It originally encompassed a wide range of lacertid lizards, but taxonomic revisions have since restricted its scope. The earliest known members of the genus are from early Miocene epoch fossils that are anatomically indistinguishable from modern green lizards such as Lacerta viridis. Some fossil species from the ice-age Mediterranean, such as Lacerta siculimelitensis, reached especially large sizes. The genus currently contains a number of species, though many former members have been moved to other genera including Anatololacerta, Atlantolacerta, Iberolacerta, Archaeolacerta, Apathya, Darevskia, Phoenicolacerta, Omanosaura, Teira, Hellenolacerta, Timon, Dinarolacerta, Podarcis, Dalmatolacerta, Parvilacerta, Zootoca, and Iranolacerta.
Reader's Guide
Lacerta serves as the type genus for the family Lacertidae and has historical importance in herpetological taxonomy. The genus's fossil record extends to the early Miocene, with some ice-age Mediterranean species reaching notably large sizes. Today, Lacerta remains a recognized genus but with a much narrower scope than its original Linnaean definition. Its legacy is tied to the broader study of lacertid evolution and biogeography across the Palaearctic region.
Did You Know?
- The earliest known members of Lacerta are from early Miocene epoch fossils.
- Some fossil species from the ice-age Mediterranean, such as Lacerta siculimelitensis, reached especially large sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lacerta (genus)?
Lacerta is a genus of lizards belonging to the family Lacertidae. It serves as the type genus for that entire family, giving Lacertidae its name.
Why is Lacerta (genus) important in herpetology?
As the type genus of Lacertidae, Lacerta anchors the classification of the whole family. It was also historically a catch-all group that once housed roughly forty species before being reorganized.
How far back does the Lacerta fossil record go?
The earliest known fossil attributed to the genus dates to the Early Miocene epoch. One notable fossil species is Lacerta siculimelitensis.
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