Chlamydosaurus

/ˌklæmɪdoʊˈsɔːrəs/ noun

Definition

A genus of large Australian lizards with prominent skin folds on their necks that they can extend as a defensive display.

Etymology

From Greek 'chlamys' (a cloak or garment) + 'sauros' (lizard), literally 'cloaked lizard,' named for the frill-like skin fold that resembles a draped cloak.

Kelly Says

The frilled-neck lizard was already ancient when Europeans discovered it—Aboriginal Australians had known about its dramatic neck frill for tens of thousands of years before science gave it a Greek name.

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