Environment
Fact-checked

At AllThingsNature, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Are the Different Types of Poisonous Lizards?

Sheri Cyprus
Sheri Cyprus

There are only two main types of poisonous lizards in the world that are widely accepted to fall into the poisonous lizards category. These are from the same family: Helodermatidae. The Gila monster, Heloderma suspectum, and the beaded lizard, Heloderma horridum, both carry venomous saliva in their gland ducts. Within these lizard species, there are also subspecies, but monitor lizards and komodo dragons are not widely included as poisonous and are in a different family.

Some studies have shown there to be a possibility that at least the komodo dragon does have some venom in its saliva. Even before the studies though, many people have mistaken the monitor lizard, Varanus, and the komodo dragon monitor species Varanus komodoensis, from the family Varanidae, as poisonous. Part of the confusion often has to do with the toxic bacteria that monitor lizards have in their saliva. The komodo dragon's saliva especially can cause death in humans from a secondary infection if the bite isn't treated promptly.

Though there may be come venom in the komodo dragon's saliva, death from a bite is more often linked to a secondary infection.
Though there may be come venom in the komodo dragon's saliva, death from a bite is more often linked to a secondary infection.

The Gila monster and the beaded lizard, on the other hand, have a neurotoxic venom rather than bacteria. This difference in the types of saliva between Varanus and Heloderma means that usually only beaded and Gilas are widely considered to be classified as poisonous lizards. Yet, the newer studies may change science's classification of at least the komodo dragon to a poisonous lizard if enough research shows there to be venom along with bacteria in the saliva of this species after all.

Though komodo lizards have little if any venom in their saliva, they can infect people they bite with toxic bacteria.
Though komodo lizards have little if any venom in their saliva, they can infect people they bite with toxic bacteria.

To further confuse the issue, even though Gilas and beaded lizards are poisonous, their mildly neurotoxic venom isn't known to kill humans, whereas, unless medical help is received, a bite from a komodo dragon typically results in death from infection caused by bacteria. Also, komodo dragons are the world's largest lizard and may weigh 300 pounds (136 kg) as well as grow up to 12 feet (3.66 m) in length. Contrastingly, beaded lizards are only about 1/6 to 1/4 of the komodo's size at around 2 feet (61 cm) to 3 feet (91 cm) long, while Gila monsters, despite their name, are even smaller and may only reach 1 foot (30.5 cm) in length. Although the venom that beaded lizards and Gila monsters carry is similar to that of the diamondback rattlesnake, it's not considered as dangerous due to the clamping and chewing release of it rather than more directly by the snake's fangs. The Gila monster's forceful, hanging-on type of bite is considered to be especially painful though.

Left untreated, the komodo dragon's saliva can cause death in humans from a secondary infection.
Left untreated, the komodo dragon's saliva can cause death in humans from a secondary infection.

Gila monsters are found in the Southwestern United States, while beaded lizards are located mainly in Mexico and southern Guatemala. Both of these poisonous lizards have scales that are stud-like, or bead-like, rather than overlapping. In general, Gila monsters have more colorful markings than beaded lizards. Gilas are known for their mainly black background with patterned markings of yellow, orange and/or pink. One beaded lizard subspecies, Heloderma horridum alvarez, is usually solid black, while other "beadeds" often have some yellow patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common types of poisonous lizards?

The most common types of poisonous lizards include the Gila monster and the Mexican beaded lizard. Both belong to the Helodermatidae family and are known for their distinctive bead-like skin and potent venom, which they use primarily for defense rather than hunting.

How does a Gila monster's venom affect humans?

A Gila monster's venom can cause severe pain, swelling, and sometimes an allergic reaction in humans. However, fatalities are extremely rare. The venom is delivered through grooves in the lizard's teeth, and while the bite is painful, it is usually not life-threatening with proper medical treatment.

Are there any poisonous lizards that can be found outside of North America?

Yes, while the Gila monster and Mexican beaded lizard are native to North America, other regions have their own venomous reptiles. For example, the Komodo dragon, found in Indonesia, has a complex venom that can lead to shock and blood loss, contributing to its status as a dangerous predator.

Can you tell if a lizard is poisonous by its appearance?

While you cannot always determine if a lizard is poisonous solely by its appearance, venomous lizards like the Gila monster and Mexican beaded lizard have distinctive patterns and textures. They often have bright, contrasting colors and a bumpy, beaded texture to their skin, which can serve as a warning to potential predators.

What should I do if I am bitten by a poisonous lizard?

If bitten by a poisonous lizard, seek medical attention immediately. While waiting for help, remain calm to slow the spread of venom, immobilize the bitten area, and keep it at or below heart level. Do not attempt to suck out the venom or apply a tourniquet, as these methods can cause further harm.

How do poisonous lizards contribute to their ecosystems?

Poisonous lizards play a crucial role in their ecosystems by controlling pest populations and serving as a food source for larger predators. Their venom has also attracted scientific interest for potential medical applications, such as the Gila monster's venom, which has been used to develop a drug for type 2 diabetes management.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Though there may be come venom in the komodo dragon's saliva, death from a bite is more often linked to a secondary infection.
      By: Erni
      Though there may be come venom in the komodo dragon's saliva, death from a bite is more often linked to a secondary infection.
    • Though komodo lizards have little if any venom in their saliva, they can infect people they bite with toxic bacteria.
      By: kubais
      Though komodo lizards have little if any venom in their saliva, they can infect people they bite with toxic bacteria.
    • Left untreated, the komodo dragon's saliva can cause death in humans from a secondary infection.
      By: Remus Moise
      Left untreated, the komodo dragon's saliva can cause death in humans from a secondary infection.