The shrinking genus: how modern science redefined the classic Lacerta lizard family

Nature · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: For centuries, the name Lacerta served as a broad umbrella for diverse lizard species. However, a major taxonomic revision in 2007 dismantled this grouping, splitting it into nine distinct genera. This shift reveals how our understanding of evolutionary biology constantly evolves as we refine the classification of the natural world.

The genus Lacerta belongs to the family Lacertidae and has a long history in scientific literature, dating back to its establishment by Linnaeus in 1758. For much of its history, it was considered a fairly diverse group, encompassing a wide array of lizard species found across various landscapes. This traditional classification remained the standard for centuries until molecular and anatomical research necessitated a more precise categorization of these reptiles.

In 2007, a landmark study by Arnold, Arribas, and Carranza fundamentally altered the taxonomy of the Palaearctic and Oriental lizard tribe Lacertini. By analyzing the systematics of these animals, the researchers determined that the original genus was too broad. Consequently, they split the group into nine separate genera, a move that clarified the evolutionary relationships between the various species previously lumped under the Lacerta name. This revision highlights the dynamic nature of biological classification, where new data often forces us to redraw the boundaries of established groups.

The fossil record provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of these lizards, with the earliest known members appearing during the early Miocene epoch. These ancient specimens are anatomically indistinguishable from modern green lizards, such as Lacerta viridis. Interestingly, the genus has also produced unique evolutionary outcomes, such as the ice-age Mediterranean species Lacerta siculimelitensis, which was notable for reaching exceptionally large sizes. Today, the classification continues to be refined, with species like the Anatolian rock lizard and the Pyrenean rock lizard now categorized within their own specialized genera, reflecting a deeper understanding of their distinct lineages and ecological roles.

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