Meet the "armless reptile" hiding in Northern Australia who have a snake-like body shape

Lerista munuwajarlu, lizard with no arms. (Image: X/@ReferIndia)

• New armless lizard species found in northern Australia.
• The species, Lerista Munuwajarlu, has only tiny hind limbs and a snake-like body.
• Genetic test confirms unique find, showcasing Australia's hidden biodiversity.

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Have you ever come across a lizard with no arms? Scientists have discovered a strange new lizard species in northern Australia recently. This reptile has no front arms, only tiny back limbs for movement. The discovery surprised researchers studying remote and poorly explored wildlife regions there. Many hidden species still exist in Australia’s vast and isolated natural environments today.

What Makes This Lizard So Unusual? 

Most lizards have four limbs for walking, climbing and escaping predators easily. This species completely lacks front arms, which is extremely rare among reptiles. Only small hind legs remain, giving the lizard a snake-like body shape. Its smooth, elongated body helps it move easily through soil and grass underground.

Has Science Given this Any Name? 

The species has been named Lerista munuwajarlu by the discovery team. The name comes from the local Garrwa Indigenous language of the region. “Munuwajarlu” means “no arms,” describing the lizard’s unusual physical appearance clearly. The name also honours Indigenous knowledge connected to the land and wildlife.

Where Was this species Found?

The lizard was found near the Gulf of Carpentaria in northern Australia. This region contains wetlands, grasslands and remote habitats rarely studied by scientists. Small reptiles living underground are often missed during traditional wildlife surveys there. Researchers encountered this species only twice over more than 10 years.

How Scientists Confirmed the Species?

The lizard looked similar to other skinks found across northern Australia initially. Physical appearance alone could not confirm it was a separate species scientifically. Scientists used genetic testing to study its DNA in detail. Results showed the lizard was genetically unique from all known relatives.

Why This Discovery Matters?

Australia is home to many undiscovered species living in hidden ecosystems today. Small animals are especially difficult to find due to their secretive behaviour. Discoveries like this reveal how much biodiversity remains unexplored in nature. Protecting habitats helps protect unknown species before they disappear forever.