Deep within the lush rainforests of Borneo lives a mysterious creature barely known to the public: Lanthanotus borneensis, more commonly referred to as the earless monitor lizard.
With its dragon-like, scaly body, this species is among the rarest and most unique reptiles in the world , even dubbed the "Holy Grail of Herpetology."
A Living Fossil Rediscovered
The earless monitor lizard was first described by scientists in 1877. Then, it vanished from scientific records for more than a century. It wasn't until 2008 that it was rediscovered in the wild, a moment of both astonishment and hope for researchers.
Measuring around 40–50 cm in length, the lizard lacks visible external ear openings, has small eyes, and is covered in thick, coarse scales. Its dark purplish-brown body gives it a prehistoric appearance, earning it the nickname of a “living fossil.”
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Natural Habitat and Behavior
According to Indonesia’s Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Lanthanotus borneensis is a Borneo-endemic species, typically found in lowland tropical rainforests near rivers and swamps.
It is a nocturnal and semi-aquatic reptile, feeding mainly on insects, worms, and small invertebrates. Due to its secretive nature and limited habitat, spotting this lizard in the wild is extremely rare, even for researchers.
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Facing Illegal Trade and Habitat Loss
Ironically, its rarity has made the earless monitor lizard a target for exotic pet collectors. As reported by WowShack, one specimen can fetch up to USD 8,000 on the black market. Poaching is now one of its primary threats.
The species is listed under CITES Appendix II, restricting international trade, and is protected under Indonesia’s Government Regulation No. 7 of 1999. However, the biggest threats remain habitat destruction and low public awareness of its conservation needs.
Also read: Animals from Southeast Asia That Might Extinct Soon
A Symbol of Borneo’s Natural Wealth
As one of Southeast Asia’s most unique species, the earless monitor lizard is not only scientifically valuable but also a symbol of Borneo’s extraordinary biodiversity.
Protecting this elusive creature means preserving the integrity of Borneo’s rainforest ecosystems, a natural treasure for future generations.
References:
- Directorate General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation (KSDAE), Ministry of Environment and Forestry of the Republic of Indonesia. (2021). Mengenal Lebih Dekat Biawak Tak Bertelinga Lanthanotus borneensis. Retrieved from: https://ksdae.menlhk.go.id/info/1986/Mengenal-Lebih-Dekat-Biawak-Tak-Bertelinga-Lanthanotus-Borneensis.html
- WowShack. (2021). Borneo Earless Monitors Resemble Dragons – The Holy Grail of Lizard Species. Retrieved from: https://www.wowshack.com/borneo-earless-monitors-resemble-dragons-holy-grail-lizard-species/
