List of largest extant lizards

Here are the 15 largest extant lizards based on the most reliable measurements for size, including length and weight. These include family types Varanidae, Iguanidae and Teiidae exceeding 9 kg (20 lbs) in mass.

{{see also|Agamidae}}

File:Hydrosaurus microlophus, male, Rompegading, Sulawesi.png is usually regarded as the largest representative of family Agamidae, reaching a length of 1.2 m (3.9 ft).]]

• The largest representatives in this group are species in the genus Hydrosaurus, which often exceed 1 metre (3.3 ft) in length.
• The largest species – Makassar salfin lizard (Hydrosaurus microlophus) and Sulawesi black salfin lizard (Hydrosaurus celebensis) grow to a length of 1.2 (3.9 ft) and 1.13 m (3.7 ft) respectively.{{Cite web|url=https://riqnauf.blogspot.com/2020/04/4-hydrosaurus-dari-indonesia-yang-baru.html|title=4 SPECIES HYDROSAURUS DARI INDONESIA YANG BARU DIKONFIRMASIKAN PADA TAHUN 2020|website=Riqnauf.blogspot.com|access-date=30 January 2022}}
• Weber's salfin lizard (Hydrosaurus weberi), Philippine salfin lizard (Hydrosaurus pustulatus) and Amboina salfin lizard (Hydrosaurus amboinensis) (previously counts the largest species in this group) have a length of 1 m (3.3 ft).
• The Australian water dragon (Intellagama lesueurii) and Chinese water dragon (Physignathus cocincinus) can also exceed this length.{{Cite web|url=https://www.crestwoodvethospital.com/thai-water-dragon-care-physignathus-cocincinus/|title=Thai Water Dragon Care (Physignathus cocincinus)|website=Crestwoodvethospital.com|access-date=30 January 2022}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.petmd.com/reptile/species/chinese-water-dragon#:~:text=Chinese%20water%20dragons%20typically%20grow,of%20the%20animal's%20total%20length.|title = Chinese Water Dragon – Physignathus Cocincinus|website=Petmd.com}}
• The frilled lizard (Chlamydosaurus kingii) has length up to 85 cm (2.79 ft) and mass up to 870 g (1.92 lb),{{Cite web|url=https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Chlamydosaurus_kingii/|title = Chlamydosaurus kingii (Frilled Lizard)|website=Animaldiversity.org}} probably even 900 g (2 lb)Hauschild, Bosch (1997), pp. 69.
• Uromastyx aegyptia is one of heaviest representatives among agamas, with length up to 76 cm (30 in){{Cite web|url=https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Uromastyx&species=aegyptia#:~:text=One%20of%20the%20largest%20species,of%20up%20to%2076%20cm.|title=Uromastyx aegyptia|website=reptile-database.reptarium.cz|access-date=26 April 2022}} and mass 2 kg (4.4 lbs).[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/234093613_Aspects_of_the_ecology_of_the_Arabian_spiny-tailed_lizard_Uromastyx_aegyptia_microlepis_BLANFORD_1875_at_Mahazat_as-Sayd_protected_area_Saudi_Arabia#pf2]. Edited by Tomas M. Wilms, Philipp Wagner, Mohammed Shobrack, Nicola Lutzmann & Wolfgang BöHME
• A central bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) and eastern bearded dragon (Pogona barbata) have a length of {{convert|60|cm|in|abbr=on}},{{Cite web|url=https://www.dragon-files.com/item/3-pogona-barbata|title = Pogona barbata|website=Dragon-files.com|access-date=26 April 2022}}{{Cite web|url=https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Pogona_vitticeps/|title = ADW:Pogona vitticeps:INFORMATION|website=Animaldiversity.org|access-date=26 April 2022}}{{Cite web|url=https://mybeardies.com/how-big-do-bearded-dragons-get/|title = How Big Do Bearded Dragons Get?|website=Mybeardies.com | date=19 July 2017 |access-date=26 April 2022}} and are the largest in their genus.

{{see also|Anniellidae}}

• The largest American legless lizard is the Californian legless lizard (Anniella pulchra) attaining {{convert|18|cm|in|abbr=on}} long.

{{see also|Anguidae}}

File:K. Kalaentzis Pseudopus apodus.jpg from Southern Europe to Central Asia, is the largest legless lizard, reaching a length of 1.2 m (3.9 ft)]]

• Many representatives of this family are legless lizards. Among these the largest species, and also the largest legless lizard in the world, is the sheltopusik (Pseudopus apodus), reaching a maximum length of more 135 cm (4.43 ft) and a mass in {{convert|1.1|kg|lb|abbr=on}}.{{Cite web|url=https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Pseudopus&species=apodus#:~:text=apodus%2C%20and%2015.98%20mm%20maximum,of%2032.04%20mm%20in%20P.|title = Pseudopus apodus |website=reptile-database.reptarium.cz |access-date=26 April 2022}}
• The eastern glass lizard (Ophisaurus ventralis) and slender glass lizard (Ophisaurus attenuatus) may reach lengths of up to {{convert|108|cm|ft|abbr=on}}{{Cite web|url=https://srelherp.uga.edu/lizards/ophven.htm|title = Eastern Glass Lizard (Ophisaurus ventralis) |website=Srelherp.uga.edu |access-date=26 April 2022}} and {{convert|107|cm|ft|abbr=on}}{{Cite web|url=https://srelherp.uga.edu/lizards/ophatt.htm|title = Slender Glass Lizard (Ophisaurus attenuatus)|website=Srelherp.uga.edu |access-date=26 April 2022}} respectively.
• However, this family also has lizards with legs, among which the largest is the Texas alligator lizard (Gerrhonotus infernalis) growing to from 45.7 cm (18 in) till 64 cm (25.2 in){{Cite web|url=https://biodiversity.utexas.edu/news/entry/texas-alligator-lizard|title = Texas Alligator Lizard |website=Biodiversity.utexas.edu |access-date=26 April 2022}}{{Cite web|url=http://digimorph.org/specimens/Gerrhonotus_infernalis/|title = Digimorph – Gerrhonotus infernalis (Texas alligator lizard) |website=Digimorph.org |access-date=26 April 2022}} in different sources.

{{see also|Chamaeleonidae}}

• Of all chameleons, the largest is the Parson's chameleon (Calumma parsonii), reaching a length of 68 cm (27 in).{{cite web|url=https://africageographic.com/stories/chameleon-size-cat-7-fascinating-facts/|title=The chameleon the size of a house cat: 7 fascinating facts|website=Africageographic.com|date=14 November 2017 }}{{cite web |url=https://www.jungledragon.com/specie/1351/parsons_chameleon.html|title=Parsons chameleon (Calumma parsonii)|website=Jungledragon.com}} But the longest species is the Malagasy giant chameleon (Furcifer oustaleti). It has a length of up to 68.5 cm (27 in).{{cite journal |first1=Dustin |last1=Smith |first2=Joy |last2=Vinci |first3=Christopher V. |last3=Anderson |first4=Jennifer Ketterlin |last4=Eckles |first5=Frank |last5=Ridgley |first6=Frank J.|last6=Mazzotti|url=http://www.chamaeleonidae.com/ewExternalFiles/Smith%202016%20-%20Southeast%20Nat.pdf|title=Observations on Nesting and Clutch Size in Furcifer oustaleti (Oustalet's Chameleon) in South Florida | journal=Southeastern Naturalist|volume=15|issue=8|date=2016|pages=75–88|doi=10.1656/058.015.sp808 |s2cid=90309093 }}
• Other large chameleons are the veiled chameleon (Chameleo calyptratus) and Meller's chameleon (Trioceros melleri), with lengths of up to 61 cm (24 in){{Cite web|url=https://www.petmd.com/reptile/species/veiled-chameleon|title=Veiled Chameleon – Chameleo calyptratus calyptratus|website=Petmd.com}}{{cite web |url=https://www.romfilatelia.ro/en/chameleons/|title=CHAMELEONS -Romfilatelia – O lume intr-un timbru|website=Romfilatelia.ro}} Exceptionally large specimens of the latter have reputedly reached over 76 cm (30 in) and mass 600 g (1.3 lb), although this is unlikely.{{Cite web|url=http://www.adcham.com/html/taxonomy/species/chmelleri.html|title = Chamaeleo Trioceros melleri profile|website=Adcham.com}}

{{see also|Cordylidae}}

• Many species in this family are small to medium-sized lizards that range in length from 6 to 30 cm (2.4 to 11.8 inches).{{Cite web|url=https://www.britannica.com/animal/Cordylidae|title=Cordylidae|website=Britannica.com}} There are large species in the genus Smaug, the largest of which is a giant girdled lizard (Smaug giganteus), with snout-vent length up to 20.5 cm (8.07 in){{Cite web|url=https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Smaug&species=giganteus|title=Smaug giganteus|website=reptile-database.reptarium.cz}} and total length up to roughly 40 cm (15.74 in).{{Cite web|url=https://www.sanbi.org/animal-of-the-week/giant-girdled-lizard/|title=Giant girdled lizard – SANBI|website=Sanbi.org|date=20 May 2018 }}

{{see also|Corytophanidae}}

File:Basiliscus plumifrons (Caño Negro).jpg are quite large lizards, especially the plumed basilisk]]

• Casquehead lizards are quite large lizards. In particular, the genus Basiliscus typically measures 70–75 cm (28–30 in).Bustamante-Enríquez LM, Arteaga AF (2012). [http://www.tropicalherping.com/articles/inventories/mindo/basiliscus-galeritus.html Western Basilisk (Basiliscus galeritus)]. The Amphibians and Reptiles of Mindo. Version 2012.a{{Cite web|url=https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Basiliscus_basiliscus/|title=Basiliscus basiliscus (Common Basilisk)|website=Animaldiversity.org}} But the largest species in this group is the plumed basilisk (Basiliscus plumifrons), frequently growing to 91 cm (36 in).{{Cite web|url=https://www.reptilecentre.com/info-green-basilisk-care-sheet|title=Green Basilisk Care Sheet|website=Reptilecentre.com|access-date=25 April 2022}}
• Another large species in this group is the eastern casquehead iguana (Laemanctus longipes) reaching up to 70 cm (27.6 in) including its long, thin tail.

{{see also|Crotaphytidae}}

• In this family it is not known exactly which species is the largest, but according to current data the largest is the reticulated collared lizard (Crotaphytus reticulatus) with length up to 41 cm (16 in){{citation needed|date=April 2022}} and mass 78.77 g (2.8 oz).{{Cite web|url=https://eol.org/pages/815933/data|title=Reticulate Collared Lizard data – Encyclopedia of Life|website=Eol.org|access-date=30 January 2022}}

{{see also|Dactyloidae}}

File:Knight Anole hunting.jpg is the largest anole, over half a meter in length]]

• Large species in this group are usually crown giant anolis ecomorphs{{cite web|url=https://www.anoleannals.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Lizards-in-an-Evolutionary-Tree-chapter-3.pdf|title=FIVE ANOLE FAUNAS, PART ONE : Greater Antillean Ecomorphs|website=Anoleannals.org|access-date=30 January 2022}}{{Cite journal|doi = 10.1098/rsos.170058|title = Semicircular canals in Anolis lizards: Ecomorphological convergence and ecomorph affinities of fossil species|year = 2017|last1 = Dickson|first1 = Blake V.|last2 = Sherratt|first2 = Emma|last3 = Losos|first3 = Jonathan B.|last4 = Pierce|first4 = Stephanie E.|journal = Royal Society Open Science|volume = 4|issue = 10|page = 170058|pmid = 29134056|pmc = 5666239|bibcode = 2017RSOS....470058D}}{{cite web|url=https://www.biointeractive.org/sites/default/files/LizardsEvoTree-Educator-Film.pdf|title=The Origin of Species: Lizards in an Evolutionary Tree|website=Biointeractive.org|access-date=30 January 2022}} The species generally considered the largest is the knight anole (Anolis equestris), which can reach up to 51 cm (20 in) in total length, 19 cm (7.5 in) in snout-vent length and weigh 137 g (4.83 oz).Kirsten E. Nicholson and Paul M. Richards (2011). Home-range size and overlap within an introduced population of the Cuban knight anole, Anolis equestris (Squamata: Iguanidae) Phyllomedusa, 10 (1), 65–73{{cite journal|author1=Camposano|author2=Krysko|author3=Enge|author4=Donlan|author5=Granatosky|year=2008|title=The Knight Anole (Anolis equestris) in Florida|journal=Iguana|volume=15|issue=4|pages=212–219}}
• However, in the equester species complex there are also species reaching the same length and even larger. These include A. baracoae, A. luteogularis, A. noblei and A. smallwoodi.{{Cite web|url=https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species.php?genus=Anolis&species=baracoae|title=Anolis baracoae|website=reptile-database.reptarium.cz|access-date=30 January 2022}}{{Cite web|url=https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Anolis&species=luteogularis|title = Anolis luteogularis|website=reptile-database.reptarium.cz}}{{Cite web|url=https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Anolis&species=noblei|title = Anolis noblei|website=reptile-database.reptarium.cz}}{{Cite web|url=https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Anolis&species=smallwoodi|title = Anolis smallwoodi|website=reptile-database.reptarium.cz}}

{{see also|Gekkota}}

File:Diplodactylidae - Rhacodactylus leachianus.JPG is the largest gecko, weighing up to almost 300 g (10.5 oz)]]

• Species of geckos belong to different groups. For example, many species of geckos are in family Gekkonidae, but there are very large species in the family Diplodactylidae. For example, to them belongs the largest gecko species New Caledonian giant gecko (Rhacodactylus leachianus), which can be 36–43.18 cm (14–17 in) long and mass 212–279 g (7.5–9.8 oz){{Cite web|title=New Caledonian Giant Gecko Care Sheet|date=4 November 2013|url=http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Lizards/New-Caledonian-Giant-Gecko/|website=Reptilesmagazine.com}}{{Cite book|title=Proceedings of the scientific meetings of the Zoological Society of London|url=https://www.biodiversitylibrary.org/page/30827748#page/198/mode/1up|date=1883|volume=1883 |pages=123–124|via=Biodiversitylibrary.org}}
• Other representatives of the same genus as the aforementioned gecko can also reach huge sizes. These include gargoyle gecko (Rhacodactylus auriculatus), greater rough-snouted giant gecko (R. trachyrhynchus) and lesser rough-snouted giant gecko (R. trachycephalus).{{Cite web|url=https://petkeen.com/gargoyle-gecko/|title=Gargoyle Gecko:Facts, Pictures, Lifespan, Behavior & Care Guide|website=Petkeen.com|date=6 August 2021 }}{{Cite web|url=http://endemia.nc/en/faune/fiche1026|title=Rhacodactylus trachyrhynchus |website=Endemia.nc|access-date=30 January 2022}}{{Cite web|url=https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Rhacodactylus&species=trachycephalus&search_param=%28%28search%3D%27Rhacodactylus+trachycephalus%27%29%29|title = Rhacodactylus trachycephalus|website=reptile-database.reptarium.cz}} As well as former species in this genus: crested gecko (Correlophus ciliatus), Sarasins' giant gecko (C. sarasinorum) and Bavay's giant gecko (Mniarogekko chahoua).{{Cite book|title=The crested gecko, Rhacodactylus ciliatus, in captivity|last=Robbie |first=Hamper |date=2003|publisher=ECO Publishing|isbn=0971319758|location=Lansing, Mich.|oclc=190641818}}{{Cite web|url=https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Mniarogekko&species=chahoua|title = Mniarogekko chahoua|website=reptile-database.reptarium.cz}}{{Cite web|url=https://reptilianostra.com/product/correlophus-sarasinorum-sarasins-giant-gecko/|title = Correlophus sarasinorum (Sarasin's Giant Gecko)|website=Reptilianostra.com|date = 23 April 2019}}
• An extant member of the genus Hoplodactylus, Duvaucel's gecko (Hoplodactylus duvaucelii), in which be present a largest gecko ever lived (see the largest extinct lizards) can also reach large sizes. It can reach total length 30 cm (12 in){{Cite web|url=https://reptilesmagazine.com/50-duvaucels-geckos-released-on-island-they-once-roamed/|title=50 Duvaucel's Geckos Released On Island They Once Roamed|website=Reptilesmagazine.com|date=14 February 2018 }} with a snout-vent length (SVL) up to 16 cm (6.3 in), and weigh up to 120 grams (4.2 oz).{{Cite web|url=https://teara.govt.nz/en/photograph/13519/duvaucels-gecko|title=Duvaucel's gecko – Lizards – Te Ara Encyclopedia of New Zealand|website=Teara.govt.nz}}
• There are also large species in the family Gekkonidae. These include tokay gecko (Gekko gekko), Smith's green-eyed gecko (G. smithii) and Andaman giant gecko (G. verreauxi), which can reach and even exceed 30 cm (12 in).{{cite web|url=https://www.ecologyasia.com/verts/lizards/large_forest_gecko.htm|title=Large Forest Gecko – Gekko smithii / Gekko hulk|website=Ecologyasia.com}}{{Cite web|url=https://nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/tokay-gecko|title=Tokay gecko|website=Nationalzoo.si.edu|date=25 April 2016 }}{{cite journal|author=Veselý M|author-link=Milan Veselý|year=1999|title=A note on the morphology and natural history of Gekko verreauxi Tytler 1864 (Reptilia, Sauria, Gekkonidae)|journal=Senckenbergiana Biologica|volume=79|issue=1|pages=95–99|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/284180893}}
• Another genus with large geckos is Uroplatus. The largest representative in this genus is the giant leaf-tail gecko (Uroplatus giganteus), which can reach a snout–vent length of 20 cm and a total length of 32.2 cm.{{NRDB species|genus=Uroplatus|species=giganteus}} Another species that grows almost as large is the common flat-tail gecko (U. fimbriatus), which can exceed 30 cm (12 in) and more.{{cite web|url=https://www.jungledragon.com/specie/1683/common_flat-tail_gecko.html|title=Common flat-tail gecko (Uroplatus fimbriatus) – JungleDragon|website=Jungledragon.com}}
• The genus Phelsuma in subfamily Uroplatinae also has large species. Standing's day gecko (Phelsuma standingi) is one of the largest day geckos, reaching a length of about {{cvt|25.4|cm}} and Round Island day gecko (P. guentheri), Madagascar giant day gecko (P. grandis) and P. madagascariensis can reach even more impressive lengths of 30 cm (12 in) or more.{{cite web|url=https://m.facebook.com/MauritianWildlife/photos/a.243279752427632/2158229297599325/?type=3|title=The Günther's gecko|website=m.facebook.com|access-date=21 May 2022}}{{cite web|url=https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Phelsuma&species=grandis|title=Phelsuma grandis|website=reptile-database.reptarium.cz|access-date=23 April 2022}}Glaw F, Vences M (2007). A Field Guide to the Amphibians and Reptiles of Madagascar. Third edition. {{ISBN|978-3-929449-03-7}}
• Outside of the families Diplodactylidae and Gekkonidae, there are large geckoes among the Eublepharidae. The African fat-tailed gecko (Hemitheconyx caudicinctus) reaches a length of up to 23 cm (9.1 in),{{cite web|url=https://www.reptiles.swelluk.com/help-guides/how-to-care-for-an-african-fat-tailed-gecko/|title=African fat tail gecko, Hemitheconyx caudicinctus, care sheet|website=Reptiles.swelluk.com|date=22 July 2020 |access-date=21 May 2022}} and a mass of {{convert|75|g|oz|abbr=on}}.{{cite web|url=https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Hemitheconyx_caudicinctus/|title=Hemitheconyx caudicinctus (Fat-tail Gecko)|website=Animaldiversity.org|access-date=21 May 2022}} The leopard gecko (Euplepharis macularis) reaches even large sizes – up to 28 cm (11 in) long with a mass of 60–80 g (2.1–2.84 oz).{{cite web|url=http://www.thebeardeddragon.org/leopard-gecko/leopard-gecko.php|title=Leopard Gecko Information & Facts|work=Thebeardeddragon.org}}
• The largest species of family Phyllodactylidae, the giant wall gecko (Tarentola gigas), reaches {{convert|30|cm|in|abbr=on}} in length{{cite web|url=http://www.caboverde.com/nature/andreone.htm|title=Macroscincus coctei in the "Ilhéu Razo" (Cape Verde) del Dr. Franco Andreone|website=Caboverde.com}} and {{convert|15.5|cm|in|abbr=on}} in SVL.{{NRDB species|genus=Tarentola |species=gigas|access-date=18 May 2022}}

{{see also|Gerrhosauridae}}

• The largest species in this family is the giant plated lizard (Matobosaurus validus), with a total length of up to 69 cm (27 in){{Cite web|url=https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Matobosaurus&species=validus|title = Matobosaurus validus|website=reptile-database.reptarium.cz}}{{cite web|url=https://www.sanbi.org/animal-of-the-week/giant-plated-lizard/|title=Giant plated lizard – SANBI|website=Sanbi.org|date=20 May 2018 }} or even 75 cm (29.5 in),{{Cite web|url=http://epicenabled.blogspot.com/2015/12/reptiles-found-in-kruger-giant-plated.html|title=Epic's Interactive Blog: Reptiles found in the Kruger – The giant plated lizard|website=Epicenabled.blogspot.com|date=3 December 2015 }} with a snout-vent length (SVL) of 28 cm (11 in). Another large plated lizard is the Sudan plated lizard (Broadleysaurus major), with a length of about 51–60 cm (20–24 in).

{{see also|Gila monster|Helodermatidae}}

File:Heloderma horridum.jpg is the largest species in family Helodermatidae, reaching a length of up to 91 cm (36 in)]]

• This family includes large and stocky lizards, including the infamous Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum), which reaches a total length up to 60 cm (23.6 in) with a snout-vent length (SVL) of 36 cm (14.1 in) and a body mass from {{convert|1|kg|lb|abbr=on}} to {{convert|2.2|kg|lb|abbr=on}}{{citation needed|date=April 2022}} depending on the source. But despite the stocky and massive body of this lizard, it is not the largest representative of the family. Greatly exceeding it in size are the Mexican beaded lizard (Heloderma horridum) and Rio Fuerte beaded lizard (Heloderma exasperatum), with a total length of up to 91 cm (36 in),{{cite web|url=https://www.monaconatureencyclopedia.com/heloderma-exasperatum/?lang=en|title=Heloderma exasperatum|first=Giuseppe|last=Mazza|date=October 28, 2012}} a SVL of up to 47 cm (18.5 in) and a mass from {{convert|2|kg|lb|abbr=on}} to {{convert|4|kg|lb|abbr=on}}Beck, D. D. (2005). Biology of Gila monsters and beaded lizards (Vol. 9). Univ of California Press.Grzimek, Dr. H.C. Bernhard. 1975. Animal Life Encyclopedia. Volume 6 Pgs. 321–322 and 151–152. Van Nostrand Reinhold Company. depending on the source.

{{see also|Iguanidae}}

File:Blue Iguana on Wilderness Trail at QEII Botanic Park.jpg is the heaviest iguanid and one of the largest extant lizards]]

• Iguanas are very large lizards, some of which can reach lengths of up to 2 m (6.6 ft) and mass more than {{convert|10|kg|lb|abbr=on}}. They are the largest lizards after some large species of monitor lizards, and the largest lizards in the New World. Iguanas vary considerably in size and form, but even the smallest lizards in this family are still quite large. For example, the desert iguana (Dipsosaurus dorsalis) can reach a length of up to 61 cm (24 in).{{cite book |last= Stebbins|first= Robert|author-link=Robert C. Stebbins|title= Western Reptiles and Amphibians|year= 2003|publisher= Houghton Mifflin |pages = 338–339, 537|location= New York|isbn= 0-395-98272-3}} The largest species of the genus Sauromalus is the San Esteban chuckwalla (Sauromalus varius), up to 76 cm (27 in) long and {{convert|1.4|kg|lb|abbr=on}} in weight,{{cite book| last=Case|first=T. J.|date= 1982|title= Ecology and evolution of insular gigantic chuckwallas, Sauromalus hispidus and Sauromalus varius|pages=184–212|work= Iguanas of the World|publisher= Noyes Publications|location=Park Ridge, New Jersey|isbn=0-8155-0917-0}} while the second-largest is the Angel Island chuckwalla (S. hispidus), up to 64 cm (25.2 in) long.
• Many sources describe the green iguana (Iguana iguana) as the largest iguanid, often reaching lengths up to 1.5 metres (4.91 ft) and masses of {{convert|4|kg|lb|abbr=on}},Rivas, J.A. (2008). Pers. comm. and with a maximum length of 2 m (6.6 ft) and a mass of {{convert|8|kg|lb|abbr=on}}{{Cite book|first1=Philippe De Vosjoli|first2=Susan Donoghue|last1=Roger Klingenberg|last2=David Blair.|title=The Green Iguana Manual|publisher=BowTie Press|pages=111|year=2003|isbn=1882770676}} and in some cases even {{convert|9.1|kg|lb|abbr=on}}. However, the heaviest species in this family is the blue iguana (Cyclura lewisi), with a total length of up to 1.5 m (4.91 ft), a SVL of 51–76 cm (30 in) and a mass of up to {{convert|14|kg|lb|abbr=on}} It is the eighth-heaviest and largest extant lizard.{{Cite web|url=https://a-z-animals.com/blog/largest-lizards/|title=The 10 Largest Lizards in The World|website=A-z-animals.com|date=18 August 2021 |access-date=12 February 2022}}

File:Conolophus subcristatus (North Seymour 4).jpg is a very massive lizard weighing more than {{convert|10|kg|lb|abbr=on}} and is one of the largest extant lizards]]

• Other large species in this family include the Galapagos land iguana (Conolophus subcristataus), with a length of about 1.5 m (4.91 ft) and a mass of up to {{convert|13|kg|lb|abbr=on}}. It is the second-heaviest iguanid after the blue iguana and the ninth-heaviest and largest lizard in the world. Another large species from the same genus is the Santa Fe land iguana (C. pallidus), reaching a SVL of {{convert|56.4|cm|in|abbr=on}} and a mass of {{convert|7.2|kg|lb|abbr=on}}. The Galapagos pink land iguana (C. marthae) have snout-vent length {{convert|57.5|cm|in|abbr=on}} and the mass of {{convert|8|kg|lb|abbr=on}}.{{cite news|language=es| author=Cruz M. Márquez B.|title=Estado poblacional de las iguanas terrestres (Conolophus subcristatus, C. pallidusy C.marthae: Squamata, Iguanidae), Islas Galápagos|journal=Boletín Técnico, Serie Zoológica|place=Sangolquí, Équateur|publisher=ESPE|volume=9|date=June 2010|pages=19–37|url=https://journal.espe.edu.ec/ojs/index.php/revista-serie-zoologica/article/viewFile/1427/1015#page=3}}.
• The marine iguana (Amblyrhynchus cristatus) is the tenth-largest extant lizard in the world, and the largest reptile on Galapagos Islands after the Galapagos land iguana, not including turtles reaching a maximum total length of 1.4 m (4.59 ft), a SVL of from 12 till 56 cm (from 4.72 till 22 in){{cite journal | author=Miralles | author2=Macleod | author3=Rodríguez | author4=Ibáñez | author5=Jiménez-Uzcategui | author6=Quezada | author7=Vences | author8= Steinfartz | name-list-style=amp| year=2017 | title=Shedding Light On the Imps of Darkness: An Integrative Taxonomic Revision of the Galápagos Marine Iguanas (Genus Amblyrhynchus) | journal=Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society | volume=XX | issue=3 | pages=1–33 | doi=10.1093/zoolinnean/zlx007| doi-access=free }}{{cite journal | author1=Wikelski, M. | author2=Trillmich, F. | year=1997 | title=Body Size and Sexual Size Dimorphism in Marine Iguanas Fluctuate as a Result of Opposing Natural and Sexual Selection: An Island Comparison | journal=Evolution | volume=51 | issue=3 | pages=922–936 | doi=10.1111/j.1558-5646.1997.tb03673.x | pmid=28568579 | s2cid=205780374 | doi-access=free }} and a mass of from {{convert|1|to|12|kg|lb|abbr=on}}Endangered animals of the world pp. 48 depending on islands.
• Aforementioned genus Cyclura includes other very large iguanas, such as Anegada rock iguana (Cyclura pinguis) reaching a snout-vent length (SVL) of {{convert|56|cm|in|abbr=on}}{{Cite iucn |author=Mitchell, N. |title=Cyclura pinguis |volume=1996 |page=e.T6031A12343361 |date=1996 |doi=10.2305/IUCN.UK.1996.RLTS.T6031A12343361.en}} and a mass {{convert|7.75|kg|lb|abbr=on}}.{{Cite journal |first=David W. |last=Blair |url=http://images.cyclura.com/download/pdf/WestIndianRockIguanas.PDF

|title= WEST INDIAN IGUANAS OF THE GENUS Cyclura |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080411062032/http://images.cyclura.com/download/pdf/WestIndianRockIguanas.PDF

|archive-date=11 April 2008 |url-status=dead}} A second largest species in this genus and second longest iguanid overall, and also one of the largest lizards in the Caribbean, the Cuban iguana (C. nubila) reaching a length in {{convert|1.6|m|ft|abbr=on}} with a SVL in {{convert|74.5|cm|in|abbr=on}}.

• The rhinoceros iguana (Cyclura cornuta) has a length in {{convert|1.36|m|ft|abbr=on}}, with a SVL {{convert|56|cm|in|abbr=on}} and a mass more {{convert|4.56|-|9|kg|lb|abbr=on}}. Previously considered a subspecies of the aforementioned rhinoceros iguana, the Mona ground iguana (C. strejnegeri) exceeds a total length of 1.22 m (4 ft),{{cite news|language=en|first1=Leonhard|last1=Stejneger|title=The herpetology of Puerto Rico|publisher=Rept. U.S. Nat. Mus|place=New York|year=1902|pages=549–724}} SVL of {{convert|53.5|cm|in|abbr=on}}, mass of {{convert|6.4|kg|lb|abbr=on}} and is the largest native terrestrial lizard in Puerto-Rico.
• At least two subspecies (Cyclura cychlura cychlura and Cyclura cychlura inornata) of the Northern Bahamian rock iguana (Cyclura cychlura) can be over {{convert|1.5|m|ft|abbr=on}} in length.{{cite iucn |author=Iverson, J. |author2=Grant, T.D. |author3=Buckner, S. |date=2019 |title=Cyclura cychlura ssp. inornata |volume=2019 |page=e.T6041A3099869 |doi=10.2305/IUCN.UK.2019-2.RLTS.T6041A3099869.en |access-date=12 November 2021}}{{cite web |url=https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/giant-bahamian-iguanas?ct=t%28EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_05_22_2019_Not_LA%29&mc_cid=d9f618e84a&mc_eid=1889a55fd1 |title=Solved: How the 'Monstrous' Iguanas of the Bahamas Got So Darn Big |last=Tennenhouse |first=Erica |date=20 May 2019 |website=Atlas Obscura Daily Newsletter |access-date=24 February 2020}}{{cite iucn |author=Knapp, C.R. |author2=Buckner, S.D. |date=2004 |title=Cyclura cychlura ssp. cychlura |volume=2004 |page=e.T6039A12349025 |doi=10.2305/IUCN.UK.2004.RLTS.T6039A12349025.en |access-date=12 November 2021}}{{cite web|title=Andros Iguana |work=International Iguana Foundation - Andros Iguana |publisher=International Iguana Foundation |date=2006-02-15 |url=http://www.iguanafoundation.org/article.php?articleID=47 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20070807185154/http://www.iguanafoundation.org/article.php?articleID=47 |url-status=dead |archive-date=2007-08-07 |access-date=8 September 2007 }}
• A member of the genus Iguana, lesser Antillean iguana (Iguana delicatissima) can reach SVL {{convert|43.4|cm|in|abbr=on}}, and mass {{convert|3.5|kg|lb|abbr=on}}.[http://www.iucn-isg.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Lesser_Antillean_Iguana_CAP_2014-2016.pdf Lesser Antillean Iguana (Iguana delicatissima): Conservation Action Plan, 2014–2016]. Edited by Charles Knapp, Michel Breuil, Chloé Rodrigues, and John Iverson.
• The black iguana (Ctenosaura similis) and western spiny-tailed iguana (C. pectinata) are the largest species in the genus Ctenosaura, reaching a length in {{convert|1.3|m|ft|abbr=on}}.{{cite web|url=https://reptile.guide/spiny-tailed-iguana/|title=Spiny-Tailed Iguana Care Sheet: Diet, Habitat, Needs, & FAQs|website=reptile.guide|date=3 November 2021 }} The longest is Mexican spiny-tailed iguana (C. acanthura) with a length of {{convert|1.4|m|ft|abbr=on}}.{{Citation|last=Malfatti|first=Mark|date=2007|title=A look at the genus Ctenosaura: meet the World's fastest lizard and its kin|journal=Reptiles Magazine|volume=15|issue=11|pages=64–73}}

{{see also|Lacertidae}}

File:GallotiaStehlini.jpg is the largest member of a family Lacertidae, exceeding a length of {{convert|80|cm|in|abbr=on}}]]

• This family includes 300 diverse species. Among the largest is Gran Canaria giant lizard (Gallotia stehlini), reaching a length of {{convert|80|cm|in|abbr=on}},{{cite book|first= Isabella Noble|last=Damian Harper|publisher=Lonely Planet|title=Lonely Planet Canary Islands|date=10 January 2020 |isbn= 9781786574985}}{{cite web|url=https://www.algogar.com/doclagartogcingles.htm|title=The giant lizard of Gran Canaria|website=Algogar.com|access-date=21 May 2022}} with a SVL of {{convert|26.5|cm|in|abbr=on}}{{cite journal|first=M. Molina-Borja|last= M. A. Rodrıguez-Domınguez|year=2004|title=Evolution of biometric and life-history traits in lizards (Gallotia) from the Canary Islands|pages=44–53|url=https://podarcis.eu/AF/Bibliografie/BIB_85.pdf}} and a mass of almost {{convert|1.7|kg|lb|abbr=on}}.{{Cite web|url=https://eol.org/pages/794629|title=Gran Canaria Giant Lizard – Encyclopedia of Life|website=Eol.org|access-date=24 April 2022}} A subspecies in the same genus – El Hierro giant lizard (G. simonyi machadoi), perhaps also is one of the largest lacertids, and able reach a length of {{convert|60|cm|in|abbr=on}}.{{citation needed|date=April 2022}} A Tenerife lizard (G. galloti) have a total length in {{convert|44|cm|in|abbr=on}}{{citation needed|date=April 2022}} and a SVL of {{convert|14.5|cm|in|abbr=on}}.{{cite journal|first1=Airam Rodríguez|first2=Manuel Nogales|last1=Beatriz Rumeu|last2=Beneharo Rodríguez|year=2008|publisher=Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles|title=Temporal and Spatial Variation in the Diet of the Endemic Lizard Gallotia galloti in an Insular Mediterranean Scrubland|journal=Journal of Herpetology |volume=42|issue=2|pages=213–222|doi=10.1670/07-0752.1 |jstor=40060504 |hdl=10261/12799 |s2cid=43531872 |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/40060504|hdl-access=free}} Another large lizard in this genus are La Gomera giant lizard (G. brovoana), reaching a length of almost {{convert|50|cm|in|abbr=on}} and a SVL in {{convert|19|cm|in|abbr=on}}Salvador, A. (2015). [http://www.vertebradosibericos.org/reptiles/galbra.html Lagarto gigante de La Gomera – Gallotia bravoana.] In: Virtual Encyclopedia of Spanish Vertebrates. Salvador, A., Marco, A. (Eds.). National Museum of National Sciences, Madrid.
• Estimated to reach snout-vent length of {{convert|40|-|44|cm|in|abbr=on}} and a mass of {{convert|5|kg|lb|abbr=on}},J.A. Mateo, M. García-Márquez, L.F. López-Jurado, F Barahona (2001): Description of the giant lizard of La Palma (Canary Islands) from subfossil remains. Spanish Journal of Herpetology 15: 53–59. La Palma giant lizard (Gallotia auaritae) is perhaps the largest living lacertid, outsizing even Gran Canaria giant lizard (G. stehlini). However, on the other hand, there is very little data to confirm this, and therefore the aforementioned Gran Canaria giant lizard is usually considered the largest representative of its family.
• The longest member of this family is ocellated lizard (Timon lepidus), having a length of {{convert|90|cm|in|abbr=on}},{{Cite web|url=https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Timon&species=lepidus|title=Timon lepidus|website=reptile-database.reptarium.cz}} with a SVL {{convert|26|cm|in|abbr=on}}[https://www.zobodat.at/pdf/HER_28_1_2_0104-0106.pdf]. Edited by Wolfgang BöHME and a mass {{convert|0.5|kg|oz|abbr=on}}.{{Cite web |url=http://www.biotropics.com/englisch/html/timon_lepidus.html |title=Biotropics - Timon lepidus (DAUDIN, 1802) - Ocellated Lizard; housing, feeding, breeding etc |access-date=2010-12-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923190427/http://www.biotropics.com/englisch/html/timon_lepidus.html |archive-date=2015-09-23 |url-status=dead }} A representative of the same genus, the Moroccan eyed lizard (T. tangitanus) can have a length of {{convert|70|cm|in|abbr=on}},{{citation needed|date=April 2022}} and is one of the longest members of this family.
• The European green lizard (Lacerta viridis), Iberian emerald lizard (L. schreiberi) and western green lizard (L. bilineata) can exceed a length {{convert|40|cm|in|abbr=on}}{{Cite web |url=https://www.monaconatureencyclopedia.com/lacerta-bilineata/?lang=en|title=Lacerta bilineata – Monaco Nature Encyclopedia |website=Monaconatureencyclopedia.com|date=22 February 2019 }} and more, and with a SVL at least {{convert|13|cm|in|abbr=on}}.{{Cite web |url=https://www.parquenacionalsierraguadarrama.es/en/naturaleza/fauna/118-reptiles#:~:text=Iberian%20emerald%20lizard%20(Lacerta%20schreiberi,%2Dto%2Dbody%20length).|title=Reptiles |website=Parquenacionalsierraguadarrama.es}} The largest species in this group is Balkan green lizard (L. trilineata), reaching a length of {{convert|50|cm|in|abbr=on}}, and a SVL of {{convert|16|cm|in|abbr=on}}.{{Cite web|url=http://www.naturewonders.org/picture?/2787|title=Lacerta trilineata citrovittata Werner, 1935|website=Naturewonders.org|access-date=24 April 2022}}

{{see also|Lanthanotidae}}

• The only living species in this family – earless monitor lizard (Lanthanotus borneensis) typically has a snout-vent length (SVL) of about {{convert|20|cm|in|abbr=on|0}},{{cite book | author=Das, I. | year=2010 | title=Reptiles of South-East Asia | publisher=New Holland | page=226 | isbn=978-1-84773-347-4}} and a total length of about {{convert|40|cm|in|abbr=on|0}}.{{cite web | title=Lanthanotus borneensis – Description | url=https://www.borneo-taubwaran.de/en/description/description/ | publisher=borneo-taubwaran.de | access-date=27 July 2019 }} The longest recorded in the wild had length in {{convert|44.1|cm|in|abbr=on}}.{{cite journal | author=Langner, C. | year=2017 | title=Hidden in the heart of Borneo — Shedding light on some mysteries of an enigmatic lizard: First records of habitat use, behavior, and food items of Lanthanotus borneensis Steindachner, 1878 in its natural habitat | journal=Russian Journal of Herpetology | volume=24 | issue=1 | pages=1–10 | doi=10.30906/1026-2296-2019-24-1-1-10}} A specimen collected in the 1960s had a total length of {{convert|20|in|cm|abbr=on|disp=flip}},{{cite journal | author=Sprackland, R.G.| year=1999 | title=Sarawak's Earless Monitor Lizard (Lanthanotus borneensis) | journal=Reptiles | issue=March | pages=72–79 }} and near the time of its death an individual kept at the Bronx Zoo from 1968 to 1976 had a total length of {{convert|47|cm|in|abbr=on|1}} and weighed {{convert|209|g|oz|abbr=on}}, but it was highly obese.{{cite journal | author=Mendyk |author2=Shuter |author3=Kathriner | year=2015 | title=Historical notes on a living specimen of Lanthanotus borneensis (Squamata: Sauria: Lanthanotidae) maintained at the Bronx Zoo from 1968 to 1976 | journal=Biawak | volume=9 | issue=2 | pages=44–49 }}

{{see also|Leiocephalidae}}

• The largest curly tailed lizard is Leiocephalus carinatus. Adults may attain a snout to vent length (SVL) of {{convert|10.5|cm|in|abbr=on}}, or a total length, including the tail, of {{convert|26|cm|in|abbr=on}}. The dorsal scales are keeled and pointed. Leicoephalus carinatus resembles lizards of the genus Sceloporus, but with the tail usually curled upward, especially when the lizard is in a horizontal position on rocks or on the ground.Smith, H.M., and E.D. Brodie, Jr. 1982. Reptiles of North America: A Guide to Field Identification. New York: Golden Press. 240 pp. {{ISBN|0-307-13666-3}}. (Leiocephalus carinatus, pp. 132–133.)

{{see also|Leiosauridae}}

• Enyalius catenatus can have a body mass of up to {{convert|38.66|g|oz|abbr=on}}.{{Cite web|title=Wied's Fathead Anole - Encyclopedia of Life|url=https://eol.org/pages/794775|access-date=2021-09-16|website=eol.org}}

{{see also|Liolaemidae}}

• Members of the genus Liolaemus are vary considerably in size (45–100 millimetres or 1.8–3.9 inches snout–vent length) and weight (3–200 grams or 0.1–7.1 ounces). The largest species are L. chlorostictus (85 mm max. SVL), L. dorbignyi (98.3 mm max. SVL), L. duellmani (83 mm max. SVL), L. forsteri (93 mm max. SVL), L. foxi (82.9 mm max. SVL), L. huayra (94.3 mm max. SVL), L. inti (90.4 mm max. SVL), L. jamesi (97.5 mm max. SVL), L. melanogaster (91 mm max. SVL), L. nigriceps (88.8 mm max. SVL), L. orientalis (99.2 mm max. SVL), L. patriciaiturrae (96.5 mm max. SVL), L. puritamensis (90.8 mm max. SVL), L. robertoi (84 mm max. SVL), L. scrocchii (95 mm max. SVL) and L. stolzmanni (92 mm max. SVL).{{NRDB species|genus=Liolaemus |species=gracielae|access-date=22 May 2022}} The species L. fabiani, L. filiorum, L. pachecoi, L. pleopholis, L. polystictus, L. robustus, L. thomasi, L. vallecurensis, L. vulcanus, and L. williamsi, L. austromendocinus, L. elongatus, L. gununakuna, L. petrophilus, and L. thermarum also may reach large sizes (around 10 cm){{NRDB species|genus=Liolaemus |species=smaug|access-date=22 May 2022}}{{NRDB species|genus=Liolaemus |species=porosus|access-date=22 May 2022}}

{{see also|Opluridae}}

• The biggest species of Madagascan iguana is Madagascar spotted spiny-tailed iguana (Oplurus quadrimaculatus), it can reach a length of {{convert|25|-|39|cm}}.

{{see also|Pygopodidae}}

• The largest legless lizard in this family is the common scaly-foot (Pygopus lepidopodus) with a length of {{convert|70|cm|in|abbr=on}}, a SVL of {{convert|24|cm|in|abbr=on}}{{cite web|url=https://grasslands.ecolinc.vic.edu.au/fieldguide/fauna/common-scaly-foot|title=Common Scaly-foot|website=grasslands.ecolinc.vic.edu.au}} with a weight of {{cvt|225.95|g}}.{{cite web|url=https://eol.org/pages/1055454|title=Common Scalyfoot - Encyclopedia of Life|website=eol.org}} It is also the largest legless lizard in Australia{{Cite web|url=http://esperancewildlife.blogspot.com/2008/07/common-scaly-foot-pygopus-lepidopodus.html|title=Esperance Fauna: Common Scaly-foot - Pygopus lepidopodus|website=esperancewildlife.blogspot.com|date=July 2008 }} and biggest in the world overall, if not counting some members of the family Anguidae.
• Another large member is Burton's legless lizard (Lialis burtonis) with a maximum length of 60 cm (23.6 in),{{cite web|year=2007|title=Fact Sheet Burton Snake Lizard - Queensland Museum|publisher=Queensland Museum|website=www.qm.qld.gov.au|url=http://www.qm.qld.gov.au/~/media/Documents/Learning+resources/QM/Resources/Fact+Sheets/fact-sheet-burton-snake-lizard.pdf}} according to some information even {{convert|1.02|m|ft|abbr=on}}{{cite web|url=https://www.theanimalfacts.com/reptiles/burtons-legless-lizard/|title=Burton's Legless Lizard - Appearance, Diet, Habitat|website=theanimalfacts.com}}{{cite web|url=https://www.jcu.edu.au/discover-nature-at-jcu/animals/reptiles-and-amphibians-by-scientific-name/lialis-burtonis|title=Discover Nature at JCU - Lialis burtonis - JCU Australia|website=jcu.edu.au|date=19 October 2015 }} and a body length (snout-vent length) of {{convert|29|cm|in|abbr=on}}.{{cite web|url=https://mtq.qm.qld.gov.au/Explore/Find+out+about/Animals+of+Queensland/Reptiles/Legless+lizards|title=Legless lizards - Museum of Tropical Queensland|website=mtq.qm.qld.gov.au}}

{{see also|Scincidae}}

File:Corucia zebrata (2).jpg – largest skink reaching the length of {{convert|81|cm|in|abbr=on}}]]

• In this family of about 1500 species, many skinks have a snout-vent length (SVL) of {{convert|12|cm|in|abbr=on}}. The largest member of this family, the Solomon Islands skink (Corucia zebrata), can grow to a length of {{convert|81|cm|in|abbr=on}},{{Cite web|url=https://dubiaroaches.com/blogs/lizard-care/solomon-islands-skink-care-sheet|title=Solomon Islands Skink Care Sheet|website=Dubiaroaches.com|date=14 October 2021 }}{{Cite web|url=https://www.lllreptile.com/articles/238-prehensile-tailed-skink/|title=Prehensile Tailed Skink Care Sheet|website=lllreptile.com}} a SVL of 35 cm (13.8 in) and a mass of {{convert|0.8|-|0.9|kg|lb|abbr=on}}.{{Cite web|url=https://www.theanimalfacts.com/reptiles/solomon-islands-skink/|title=Solomon Islands Skink – The Animal Facts – Appearance, Diet, Habitat|website=Theanimalfacts.com}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.hoglezoo.org/meet_our_animals/animal_finder/giant_solomon_island_skink/|title=Giant Solomon Island Skink|website=Hoglezoo.org}} The heaviest is the common blue-tongued skink (Tiliqua scincoides), reaching a length of {{convert|60|cm|in|abbr=on}},{{sfn|Australian Museum|2000}} a SVL of 36 cm (14.1 in){{cite web|url=https://ielc.libguides.com/sdzg/factsheets/eastern-blue-tongued-skink/reproduction|title=Eastern Blue-tongued Skink (Tiliqua scincoides) Fact Sheet: Reproduction & Development|website=Ielc.libguides.com|access-date=19 May 2022}}{{sfn|Australian Museum|2000}} and a mass of {{convert|1|kg|lb|abbr=on}}.{{cite web|url=http://www.waratahsoftware.com.au/wp_lizards_skinks.html|title=Waratah Software Natural Images of Australia|year=2008|access-date=2008-05-03}}
• The genus Tiliqua also has large species of skinks. One of them is the subspecies Indonesian blue-tongued skink (Tiliqua gigas) – Merauke blue-tongued skink (T. gigas evanescens) growing a length of {{convert|66|-|76|cm|in|abbr=on}},{{cite web|url=https://reptileschool.com/blue-tongued-skink-size/|title=Blue-tongued skink size|website=Reptileschool.com|date=22 March 2023 }} thus not only being the longest species in the genus Tiliqua, but also the second by length in family Scincidae after Solomon Islands skink. Large sizes may also be reached by blotched blue-tongued lizard (T. nigrolutea) with a length of {{convert|35|-|50|cm|in|abbr=on}},{{Cite web|url=https://www.jungledragon.com/specie/826/blotched_blue-tongued_lizard.html|title=Blotched blue-tongued lizard (Tiliqua nigrolutea)|website=Jungledragon.com}} according to some information even {{convert|59.6|cm|in|abbr=on}}, a SVL of {{convert|32|cm|in|abbr=on}} and a mass of {{convert|0.8|kg|lb|abbr=on}},{{cite journal|url=https://eprints.utas.edu.au/8590/|title=Gestation, parturition and neonatal behaviour in the blotched blue-tongued lizard, Tiliqua nigrolutea, in captivity: observations of maternal care in a viviparous lizard|website=Eprints.utas.edu.au|date=December 2004 |last1=Edwards |first1=Ashley |last2=Jones |first2=Susan }} Centralian blue-tongued skink (T. multifasciata) exceeding in length of {{convert|45|cm|in|abbr=on}} with a SVL of {{convert|28.9|cm|in|abbr=on}},{{Cite journal|last=Shea|first=Glenn M|date=2006|title=Diet of two species of bluetongue skink, Tiliqua multifasciata and Tiliqua occipitalis (Squamata: Scincidae)|journal=Australian Zoologist|volume=33 |issue=3|pages=359–364|doi=10.7882/AZ.2006.009|doi-access=free}} western blue-tongued lizard (T. occipitalis) with a length of {{convert|50|cm|in|abbr=on}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.petmd.com/reptile/species/blue-tongued-skink|title=Blue-Tongued Skink - Tiliqua|website=Petmd.com}} and a SVL of {{convert|30.7|cm|in|abbr=on}}, probably {{convert|32|cm|in|abbr=on}},{{Cite web|url=https://www.reptileandgrow.com.au/products/reptiles/keepers-list/class-b/western-bluetongue/|title=WESTERN BLURTONGUE – Reptile and Grow|website=Reptileandgrow.com.au}} shingleback lizard (T. rugosa) with a total length of {{convert|41|cm|in|abbr=on}},{{cite web|url=https://australian.museum/learn/animals/reptiles/shingleback-lizard/|title=Shingleback Lizard – The Australian Museum|website=Australian.museum}} a SVL of {{convert|26|-|31|cm|in|abbr=on}}Wilson, S. & Swan, G. (2003). A complete guide to reptiles of Australia. New Holland Publishers, Sydney. {{ISBN|1 876334 72 X}} and a mass of {{convert|0.6|to|0.9|kg|abbr=on}}{{Cite web|url=https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Tiliqua_rugosa/|title=Tiliqua rugosa (Shingleback Lizard, Shingle-Back, Stumpy Tail Lizard, Pinecone lizard, Sleepy Lizard)|website=Animaldiversity.org}} and an Irian Jaya blue tongue skink (Tiliqua sp.) with total length of {{cvt|38–76|cm}}.{{cite web|url=https://eyebulb.com/how-big-do-irian-jaya-blue-tongue-skinks-get/|title=How big do Irian Jaya blue tongue skinks get? - Eyebulb.com|website=Eyebulb.com|access-date=22 May 2022}}
• Previously in the genus Tiliqua is the pink-tongued skink (Cyclodomorphus gerrardii), with a length of {{convert|45|cm|in|abbr=on}}{{cite web|url=https://www.exotic-pets.co.uk/pink-tongue-skink.html|title=Pink Tongued Skink – Cyclodomorphus gerrardii|website=Exotic-pets.co.uk}}{{cite web|url=https://www.snaketracks.com/pink-tongued-skink/|title=The Pink-Tongued Skink - SnakeTracks.com|website=Snaketracks.com}} and a SVL of {{cvt|20|cm}}.{{Cite web|url=https://www.jcu.edu.au/discover-nature-at-jcu/animals/reptiles-and-amphibians-by-scientific-name/cyclodomorphus-gerrardii|title=Discover Nature at JCU – Cyclodomorphus gerrardii – JCU Australia|website=Jcu.edu.au|date=19 October 2015 }}
• The land mullet (Bellatorias major) is one of the largest skinks and can reach a SVL of {{convert|16|-|31|cm|abbr=on}}{{Cite web|url=https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Bellatorias&species=major|title=Bellatorias major|website=reptile-database.reptarium.cz}} with a total length of {{cvt|60|cm}}.{{Cite web|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/250067428|title=Habitat Use and Thermal Biology of the Land Mullet Egernia major a Large Scincid Lizard from Remnant Rain Forest in Southeastern Australia|website=Researchgate.net}} A representative of the same genus – the major skink (B. frerei) also grows to large sizes – a total length of {{cvt|42|cm}} with a SVL of {{cvt|18|cm}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.jcu.edu.au/discover-nature-at-jcu/animals/reptiles-and-amphibians-by-scientific-name/bellatorias-frerei-syn.-egernia-frerei|title=Bellatorias frerei (syn.Egernia frerei) – JCU Australia|website=Jcu.edu.au|date=19 October 2015 }}
• The King's skink (Egernia kingii) is one of the longest skinks and can exceed a length of {{cvt|55|cm}} with a SVL of {{cvt|24.4|cm}}{{cite web|url=https://www.reptileandgrow.com.au/products/reptiles/keepers-list/class-b/king-skink|title=KING SKINK – Reptile and Grow|website=Reptileandgrow.com.au}} and weighing {{cvt|220|g}}.{{citation needed|date=September 2023}} Other large skinks are Cunningham's spiny-tailed skink (E. cunninghami) and yakka skink (E. rugosa), both of which reach a length of {{cvt|40|cm}}.{{cite web|url=https://reptilesmagazine.com/cunninghams-skinks-protect-their-offspring-against-predators-study-says/|title=Cunningham's Skinks Protect Their Offspring Against Predators, Study Says|website=Reptilesmagazine.com|date=3 September 2020 }}{{cite web|url=https://www.awe.gov.au/environment/biodiversity/threatened/publications/yakka-skink-egernia-rugosa|title=Yakka skink – Egernia rugosa – DAWE|website=Awe.gov.au}}
• A representative of the genus Eumeces is Schneider's skink (Eumeces schneiderii) has a length of {{cvt|36.5|cm}} with a SVL in {{cvt|16.5|cm}}.Boulenger GA (1890). The Fauna of British India, Including Ceylon and Burma. Reptilia and Batrachia. London: Secretary of State for India in Council. (Taylor and Francis, printers). xviii + 541 pp. (Eumeces schneideri, pp. 219–220). Previously in the aforementioned genus – Kishinoue's giant skink (Plestiodon kishinouyei) is the largest species in its genus and may grows a length of {{cvt|30–40|cm}} with a SVL of {{cvt|14.0–17.2|cm}}. Other large members in the genus Plestiodon are a broad-headed skink (P. laticeps) and a Great Plains skink (P. obsoletus) with a maximum length of 32.4 cm (12.8 in){{cite web|url=https://www.virginiaherpetologicalsociety.com/reptiles/lizards/broad-head-skink/broad-headed_skink.php|title=Broad-Headed Skink|website=Virginiaherpetologicalsociety.com}} and {{cvt|34.9|cm}}{{cite web|url=https://herpneb.unl.edu/great-plains-skink|title=Great Plains Skink|website=Herpneb.unl.edu}} and a SVL {{cvt|14.3|cm}} and {{cvt|14|cm}}{{cite web|url=https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Plestiodon_obsoletus/|title=Plestiodon obsoletus (Great Plains skink)|website=Animaldiversity.org}} respectively.
• The genus Chalcides includes many legless or almost legless skinks. The largest among these are the Italian three-toed skink (Chalcides chalcides) and the western three-toed skink (C. striatus) which have a length of {{cvt|48|cm}} and {{cvt|43|cm}}{{cite web|url=https://lifecharcos.lpn.pt/en/vertebrados.php?id=47|title=Western Three-toed Skink – Projeto LIFE Charcos|website=Lifecharcos.lpn.pt|access-date=20 May 2022}} respectively. In the genus Acontias also are limbless skinks many of which are quite small lizards, but the largest among these is giant legless skink (Acontias plumbeus) at approximately reaching 40 cm (16 in) in length.{{NRDB species |genus=Acontias |species=plumbeus |access-date=18 May 2022}}
• The fire skink (Mochlus fernandi) is the largest member in its genus and also one of the largest African skinks, growing to a length of {{cvt|37|cm}} and a SVL of {{cvt|17|cm}}{{cite web|url=https://wildbog.com/product/mochlus-fernandi/|title=Mochlus fernandi – WildBog|website=Wildbog.com}}
• Telfair's skink (Leiolopisma telfairii), the largest living skink in Mauritius, attains a size over {{cvt|16|cm}} in SVL{{cite book|first1=Pernetta, A.P.|last1=Ross, T.N.|last2=Jones, C.G.|year=2005|title=Leiolopisma telfairii (Telfair's Skink) Caudal Luring|volume=36|issue=3|pages=320–321|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/309824601}} and may grows {{cvt|30–40|cm}} in length{{cite web|url=http://pes.govmu.org/native-species/telfairs-skink/|title=Telfair's Skink – Protected Endemic Sanctuaries|website=Pes.govmu.org|access-date=20 May 2022}} with a maximum length of {{cvt|45|cm}} and a mass in {{cvt|240|g}}.{{cite journal|author=N.Cole|publisher=Darwin Initiative|title=Telfair's skink|url=https://www.darwininitiative.org.uk/documents/DAR15038/21439/15-038%20FR%20Ann5.10%20Ranger%20info%20Telfair's%20skink.pdf|website=darwininitiative.org}} Its extinct relative is Mauritian giant skink (L. mauritiana), which in twice excelled to length of its contemporary (see the largest extinct lizards) and was the biggest known skink of all time.
• The terror skink (Phoboscincus bocourti) is an endangered skink and may reach {{cvt|50|cm}} in length{{cite web|url=https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/tetrapod-zoology/terror-skinks-social-skinks-crocodile-skinks-monkey-tailed-skinks-8230-it-s-about-skinks-skinks-part-ii/|title=Terror skinks, social skinks, crocodile skinks, monkey-tailed skinks… it's about skinks (skinks part II)|website=Blogs.scientificamerican.com|access-date=20 May 2022}} and {{cvt|28|cm}} in SVL{{cite book|author=James Evans|year=2021|publisher=Princeton University Press|title=Lizards of the World: A Guide to Every Family|isbn= 978-1-78240-957-1}}Phoboscincus bocourti at [http://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Phoboscincus&species=bocourti&search_param=((genus%3D'Phoboscincus')) ReptileDatabase.cz] thus not only being one of the largest extant skinks, but the second biggest reptile on its island after monitor lizards, and so is an apex predator in its territory.

{{see also|Teiidae}}

File:Trilha Betari, por Leonardo Palermo Gentile 03.jpg is the largest teiid and one of the heaviest lizards in the world, reaching a mass of {{cvt|7|kg}}]]

• Many teiids are quite small lizards, although some members such as tegus are among the biggest lizards in the world after monitor lizards and iguanas. The largest species are Argentine black and white tegu (Salvator merianae) and red tegu (Salvator rufescens), which attain more than 1.2 m (3.9 ft) in length and {{cvt|6.8|kg}} in mass. Argentine black and white tegu is usually considered the largest species in its family with a length of 1.5 m (4.91 ft) and a mass of {{cvt|7|kg}}. Although, however, the red tegu, being more massive and bulky, can weigh more – the length is about {{convert|1.4|m|ft|abbr=on}}, and the weight is {{cvt|9|kg}}.{{cite web|url=http://myreptile.ru/articles/lizards/Argentinskij_krasnyj_tjegu.html|title=Аргентинский красный тэгу (Tupinambis rufescens)|website=myreptile.ru}}
• Both species of genus Dracaena, the northern caiman lizard (Dracaena guianensis) and the Paraguay caiman lizard (Dracaena paraguayensis), can have a length of 1.2 m (3.9 ft) and a mass in {{cvt|4.5|kg}}.Norman, D.R. (1994). Amphibians and Reptiles of the Paraguayan Chaco. Volume I. and Reptiles of the Paraguayan Chaco. Vol. I. Heredia, 82–83 pp.
• The largest member of the genus Tupinambis is the gold tegu (Tupinambis teguixin) with a maximum SVL in {{cvt|40|cm}}.Harvey MB, Ugueto GN, Gutberlet RL (2012). "Review of Teiid Morphology with a Revised Taxonomy and Phylogeny of the Teiidae (Lepidosauria: Squamata)". Zootaxa 3459: 1–156. Other large teiids in this group are the cryptic golden tegu (Tupinambis cryptus) (maximum size: {{convert|391|mm|in|abbr=on}} SVL with a {{convert|530|mm|in|abbr=on}} tail), the Cusco tegu (Tupinambis cuzcoensis) (SVL of {{convert|247|mm|in|abbr=on}} or larger) and the Maracaibo Basin tegu (Tupinambis zuliensis) (a {{convert|273|mm|in|abbr=on}} SVL with a {{convert|537|mm|in|abbr=on}} tail).{{cite journal|first1=John C. Murphy|first2=Michael J. Jowers|first3=Richard M. Lehtinen|first4=Stevland P. Charles|last1=Guarino R. Colli|last2=Ayrton K. Peres Jr|last3=Catriona R. Hendry|last4=R. Alexander Pyron|year=2016|journal=PLOS ONE|title=Cryptic, Sympatric Diversity in Tegu Lizards of the Tupinambis teguixin Group (Squamata, Sauria, Teiidae) and the Description of Three New Species|volume=11|issue=8|pages=e0158542 |doi=10.1371/journal.pone.0158542|pmid=27487019 |pmc=4972348 |bibcode=2016PLoSO..1158542M |doi-access=free }}

Body size in monitor lizards shows greater variation than in any other family of animals with adult animals weighing between {{cvt|23|g|oz}} and 80,000 g (176.3 lb). The family includes both the largest living lizards and the largest lizards that have ever existed, yet about a third of the living species are dwarfs that seldom exceed {{cvt|500|g}} in weight. Such massive size disparity between species makes the group ideal model animals to study the effects of gigantism on ecology and physiology, but at present little of their potential in this field has been explored.{{cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/size.php|title=Size|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=23 May 2022}} Although, species weighing around {{cvt|1|kg}} are often found. This family includes the Komodo dragon, which is the largest of all extant lizards, with a length of 3 meters (10 ft) and approximate weight of {{cvt|113|kg}}. Some of the largest representatives of the Varanidae such as the Komodo dragon, crocodile monitor, perentie and lace monitor can count as apex predators. In the list of the largest lizards, monitors occupy the first seven places.

;Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis)

File:ID-Komodo-waran-03.jpg is the largest extant lizard with a maximum known mass of more 80 kg (176.3 lb), also perhaps the heaviest squamate]]

• The Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) is the largest living lizard in the world, with an average mass in {{cvt|70|kg}} and {{cvt|25|kg}} for males and females respectively.{{cite journal|first1=Rebecca J. Laver|first2=Deni Purwandana|first3=Achmad Ariefiandy|last1=Jeri Imansyah|last2=David Forsyth|last3=Claudio Ciofi|last4=Tim S. Jessop|year=2012|publisher=California State University Fullerton|title=Life-History and Spatial Determinants of Somatic Growth Dynamics in Komodo Dragon Populations|journal=PLOS ONE |volume=7|issue=9|pages=e45398 |doi=10.1371/journal.pone.0045398 |pmid=23028983 |pmc=3446886 |bibcode=2012PLoSO...745398L |doi-access=free }} The largest males from Komodo, may reach more 80 kg (176.3 lb). The largest specimen of Komodo dragon, a large male from Loh Liang National Park with length of {{convert|3.04|m|ft|abbr=on}}, a SVL of {{convert|1.54|m|ft|abbr=on}} and a mass in 81.5 kg (178.5 lb).T. S. Jessop et al. (2006): Maximum body size among insular Komodo dragon populations covaries with large prey density. OIKOS 112, pp. 422–429 {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080822144157/https://web.archive.org/web/20080822144157/http://www.anu.edu.au/BoZo/Scott/PDF%20Files/SumnerJoPDFs/Jessop%20et%20al.%202006%20Oikos.pdf |date=August 22, 2008 |title=Volltext}} As stated above, females are generally much smaller than males. The largest female weighed about {{cvt|42|kg}}.P. Sastrawan, C. Ciofi: Population Distribution and Home Range. In: Murphy et al. (2002), pp. 44, 53, 55, 58–59, 61–62, 70, 72. The heaviest specimen in the wild weighed about {{cvt|87.4|kg}}. The study noted that weights greater than {{cvt|100|kg}} were possible but only after the animal had consumed a large meal. The largest accurately measured individual according to Gerard Wood for Guinness World Records was a specimen put on display at the Saint Louis Zoological Park, Missouri in 1937. This individual reportedly measured 3.13 m (10.27 ft) and weighed {{cvt|166|kg}}, although a large portion of this was likely undigested food. Because Komodo dragons can eat up to 60% their own body weight, this weight record is considered invalid. Excluding this specimen, the Komodo dragon's maximum size is surpassed by large snakes like the green anaconda (up to {{convert|97.5|kg|abbr=on}} in the wild{{Cite web|url=http://www.anacondas.org|last=Rivas|first=Jesús|title=Life history and conservation of the green anaconda (Eunectes murinus)}}) and the reticulated python (up to {{convert|150|kg|abbr=on}} in captivity{{Cite web|title=World's longest snake captured, promptly dies|work=Gizmodo Australia |date=12 April 2016 |url=https://gizmodo.com.au/2016/04/worlds-longest-snake-captured-promptly-dies/}}), but considering that these exceptionally large specimens are reported at a much lower frequency, it is still arguable that the Komodo dragon is the largest extant squamate on Earth.

;Asian water monitor (Varanus salvator)

File:A water monitor (Varanus salvator) has climbed up from the creek.jpg is the second-largest lizard with a length of more 3 m (10 ft) and a mass in {{cvt|25|kg}}]]

• The Asian water monitor (Varanus salvator) is second-biggest lizard in the world after Komodo dragon,{{cite journal |last=Shine |first=R. |author2=Harlow, P. S. |author3=Keogh, J. S. |name-list-style=amp|title=Commercial harvesting of giant lizards: The biology of water monitors Varanus salvator in southern Sumatra |journal=Biological Conservation |volume=77 |issue=2–3 |pages=125–134 |year=1996 |doi=10.1016/0006-3207(96)00008-0|bibcode=1996BCons..77..125S }} and also the longest lizard in the world. The largest specimens come from Malaysia, particularly around the Cameron Highlands, where specimens over 2.5 m (8.2 ft) in total length are sometimes encountered. Jasmi (1988) records that wild specimens can weigh up to {{cvt|25|kg}}. The largest member this species from Sri-Lanka and attained in length of about {{convert|3.21|m|ft|abbr=on}}. Thailand is also home to some huge water monitors, but elsewhere the water monitor grows to smaller sizes. The biggest found in Java are around {{convert|2.1|m|ft|abbr=on}} in total length, 2 m (6.6 ft) in Sri Lanka, {{convert|1.7|m|ft|abbr=on}} in Sumatra and mainland India and less than 1.5 m (4.91 ft) on the island of Flores.{{cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_salvator.php|title=Varanus Salvator|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=24 May 2022}} Unverified weights of 50, 70 and even 90 kg (110, 150 and even 198 pounds) have been reported in escaped pets in Florida but such enormous weights remain unverified. The 80 males slaughtered for the skin trade in Sumatra had an average weight of only {{cvt|3.42|kg}}, with a snout-vent length of {{cvt|56.6|cm}} and a total length of {{convert|142|cm|ft|abbr=on}}; while 42 females had an average weight of {{cvt|3.52|kg}}, with a nose-to-cloaca length of {{cvt|59|cm}} and a total length of {{convert|149.6|cm|ft|abbr=on}}.Shine, R., Harlow, P. S., & Keogh, J. S. ( 1996). Commercial harvesting of giant lizards: The biology of water monitors Varanus salvator in southern Sumatra. Biological Conservation, 77(2), 125–134. Among these monitor lizards, some specimens weighed from {{convert|16|-|20|kg|abbr=on}}. Another study in Sumatra by the same authors also estimates the weight of some specimens at {{cvt|20|kg}}Shine, R., & Harlow, P. S. (1998). Ecological traits of commercially harvested water monitors, Varanus salvator, in northern Sumatra. Wildlife Research, 25(4), 437–447. while the average adult weight in the population is estimated to be about {{cvt|7.6|kg}}.Dryden, G. L.; Green, B.; Wikramanayake, E. D.; Dryden, K. G. (1992-02-03). "Energy and water turnover in two tropical varanid lizards, Varanus bengalensis and V. salvator". Copeia 1992 (1): 102–107.doi:10.2307/1446540.

;Crocodile monitor (Varanus salvadorii)

File:Varanus salvadorii Zoo Amneville 28092014 1.jpg sometimes is considered the longest lizard in the world]]

• The crocodile monitor (Varanus salvadorii) sometimes is regarded as the longest lizard in the world. The longest verified individual, a specimen at Museum Koenig, is {{cvt|255|cm|ft}} long.{{cite journal | last1=Böhme | first1=W. | last2=Ziegler | first2=T. | year=1997 | title=Großwarane im Museum Koenig, mit Bemerkungen zu Afrikas größter Echse | journal=Tier und Museum | volume=5 | issue=3 | pages=65–74 }} Some have been claimed to be much larger, including three individuals that reportedly were {{cvt|323|cm|ft}}, {{cvt|427|cm|ft}} and {{cvt|475|cm|ft}} long, but these sizes are unverified.{{cite book | author = Wood, Gerald | url = https://archive.org/details/guinnessbookofan00wood | title = The Guinness Book of Animal Facts and Feats | year = 1983 | publisher = Guinness Superlatives | isbn = 978-0-85112-235-9 }}{{citation | editor=Reh, B. | year=2021 | title=Best Practice Guidelines for the Crocodile Monitor (Varanus salvadorii) | publisher=EAZA Reptile Taxon Advisory Group | edition=1 }} The tail of the crocodile monitor is proportionally very long, typically 2–2.7 times the snout-to-vent length.{{cite journal | last1=Auliya | first1=M. | last2=Koch | first2=A. | year=2020 | title=Visual Identification Guide to the Monitor Lizard Species of the World (Genus Varanus) | publisher=Federal Agency for Nature Conservation, IUCN SSC Monitor Lizard Specialist Group | journal=BFN-Skripten | volume=552 }} A weight of up to {{cvt|20|kg}} usually is reported,Turner, F., R. Jennrich, J. Weintraub. 1969. Home ranges and body size of lizards. Ecology, 50: 1076-1081. but in this slender and long-tailed arboreal species healthy adults (for example, discounting obese captives) typically weigh {{cvt|2.5|to(-)|6.38|kg|lb}}. Some sources suggest a mass up to {{cvt|90|kg}},{{cite web|url=https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Varanus_salvadorii/|title=Varanus salvadorii (Crocodile Monitor)|website=Animaldiversity.org}} although this is highly questionable.

;Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus)

File:Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus) 2.jpg is the largest lizard native to Africa with a maximum reliable length of more than {{convert|2.43|m|ft|abbr=on}} and a mass in almost {{cvt|20|kg}}]]

• The Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus) is the largest lizard native to Africa alive today and fourth or fifth-largest lizard in the world after Komodo dragon, Asian water monitor, crocodile monitor and competes with perentie. In most cases, males of Nile monitors reach a total length of 150–170 cm (4.9-5.5 ft) and weigh in the region of {{cvt|5|-|10|kg}},{{cite web|title=Varanus Nilotlcus|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_nilotlcus.php|website=Biocyclopedia.com}} while females are about {{convert|1.34|m|ft|abbr=on}} long and weigh about {{cvt|3|kg}}. Exceptionally large wild specimens of the Nile monitors can probably reach about 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in length and weigh about {{cvt|20|kg}}, making them one of the largest lizards in the world. In 1929, a photograph of a Nile monitor from South Africa was published, which was said to have reached a total length of {{convert|2.13|m|ft|abbr=on}} and weighed almost {{cvt|19|kg}}.{{cite journal|url=http://stoppinginvasives.org/dotAsset/e548bad0-edf0-4e0d-b4e0-b1182948e9de.pdf|title=Status of the Nile Monitor (Varanus niloticus) in Southwestern Florida|first1=Kevin M.|last1=Enge|first2=Kenneth L.|last2=Krysko|first3=Kraig R.|last3=Hankins|first4=Todd S.|last4=Campbell|first5=F. Wayne|last5=King|journal=Southeastern Naturalist|volume=3| issue = 4|date=2004|pages=571–582|doi=10.1656/1528-7092(2004)003[0571:SOTNMV]2.0.CO;2 |s2cid=86322057 }} The same author also reports that he shot another monitor lizard approximately 2.5 m (8.2 ft) long. The largest animal this species reliably known to date reached a total length of {{convert|242|cm|ft|abbr=on}} with a length from the muzzle to cloaca length {{cvt|98|cm}} and estimated at {{cvt|12|-|15|kg}}Enge, K. M., Krysko, K. L., Hankins, K. R., Campbell, T. S., & King, F. W. (2004 ). Status of the Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus) in southwestern Florida. Southeastern Naturalist, 3(4), 571–582. According to Faust (2001), the largest representative of this species measured 2.43 m (7.97 ft). A specimen with a length of {{convert|188|cm|ft|abbr=on}} (length from tip of muzzle to cloaca is {{cvt|74|cm}}) was recorded from Orange Province in South Africa. Near Lake Chad, the maximum recorded size for a male is {{convert|2.07|m|ft|abbr=on}} and for a female is {{convert|1.55|m|ft|abbr=on}}. The largest female Nile monitor for which there is reliable data reached {{convert|1.7|m|ft|abbr=on}}. Thus, it seems likely that in South Africa some specimens can reach lengths of 200 cm (6.6 ft) or more, but they are very rare.

;Perentie (Varanus giganteus)

File:Varanus giganteus2 - Christopher Watson.jpg is the largest lizard Australia, and also one of the biggest lizards in the world]]

• The perentie (Varanus giganteus) is by average length and weight the largest extant lizard native to Australia and fifth or fourth-biggest lizard in the world after Komodo dragon, Asian water monitor, crocodile monitor and competes with Nile monitor. It is endemic to arid central Australia, found west of the Great Dividing Range. The largest individual recorded by (Stokes, 1846) measuring 2438 mm (8 ft) in total length. However, based on the vagueness of this account, some authors claim Stokes' reported measurement of 2438 mm (8 ft) is exaggerated and a more likely maximum length may instead be {{convert|2.3|m|ft|abbr=on}} (Stirling, 1912). There have been larger individuals supposedly measuring more than 2.5 m (8.2 ft) in total length and {{cvt|20|kg}} in mass reported but such claims remain unverified. The maximum size of the perentie is probably not as great as many authors claim King & Green (1993) provide a useful discussion of size in this species. The longest found on Barrow Island by King et al. (1989) had a total length of {{convert|1.96|m|ft|abbr=on}} with a SVL in {{cvt|88|cm}} and the heaviest weighed {{cvt|11.7|kg}}. Butler (1970) record s a specimen of {{cvt|17|kg}} with a total length of {{convert|1.93|m|ft|abbr=on}} from the same island.{{Cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_giganteus.php|title=Varanus Giganteus|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=30 January 2022}} Stokes (1846) records that two specimens collected on Barrow Island in 1840 had total lengths of {{convert|2.13|m|ft|abbr=on}}. Strimple (1988) suggested that one of these animals was the type specimen used by Gray, which has a total length of only {{convert|2.02|m|ft|abbr=on}}. Many perenties do not grow to such an enormous size, and the specimens on Barrow Island may grow larger than the main population. The limited data available suggests that females reach a smaller maximum size than males, rarely exceeding {{convert|1.4|m|ft|abbr=on}} TL. Bredl (1987) records males of {{convert|1.8|and|1.9|m|abbr=on}} TL, and a female of {{convert|1.3|m|ft|abbr=on}} TL. It appears that perenties approaching 2 m (6.6 ft) in length are the exception rather than the rule, and that in general few specimens grow larger than 1.5 m (4.91 ft). If specimens of 2.4 m (7.9 ft) or more have ever existed, none seem to have survived to the present.

;Black-throated monitor (Varanus albigularis microstictus)

• The black-throated monitor (Varanus albigularis microstictus) is a subspecies of rock monitor (Varanus albigularis) and, perhaps, the heaviest lizard in Africa. Although, little information is available on the size of this species of monitor lizards. According to many information black-throated monitor attains 2.1 m (6.89 ft) in length and 27 kg (60 lb) in mass.{{cite web|url=https://www.oaklandzoo.org/animals/black-throated-monitor|title=Black Throated Monitor - Oakland Zoo|website=Oaklandzoo.org}}{{cite web|url=https://www.reptilerange.com/black-throat-monitor/|title=Black Throat Monitor - Reptile Range|website=Reptilerange.com}} However, unknown whether this mass is reached in captivity or in the wild. By another – black-throated monitor has a mass of {{cvt|23|kg}}.{{cite web|url=https://www.yumpu.com/en/document/view/25044521/fact-sheet-for-black-throated-monitor-lizard|title=Fact Sheet for Black Throated Monitor Lizard|website=yumpu.com}} However, specimens {{convert|2.13|m|ft|abbr=on}} for this species rock monitor was recorded.{{cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_albigularis.php|title=Varanus Albigularis|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=3 June 2022}}

;Lace monitor (Varanus varius)

File:Common Goanna Australia.jpg – the second-largest lizard native to Australia and seven-largest lizard in the world]]

• The lace monitor (Varanus varius) is the second-largest lizard in Australia after the perentie{{Cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_varius.php|title=Varanus Varius|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=2 February 2022}} and seven-largest lizard in the world overall. The largest instances may reach a length of 2 m (6.6 ft) with a SVL of {{cvt|76.5|cm}} and a mass of {{cvt|14|kg}}. In 1986 Gerard Krefft suggested that lace monitors grow as large as {{convert|250|cm|ft|abbr=on}}. None of this size exist now and specimens of 2 m (6.6 ft) TL are exceptional. A lizard from Mallacoota, Victoria measured {{cvt|75|cm}} SVL, {{convert|192|cm|ft|abbr=on}} TL and weighed {{cvt|14|kg}}. Another from Healesville was {{convert|192|cm|ft|abbr=on}} long and weighed almost {{cvt|20.5|kg}}. It was found to have eaten four foxcubs, three young rabbits and three large blue-tongued skinks, and all this was taken into account when weighing, is unknown. And, accordingly, the most commonly used maximum size for this species is a length of {{convert|192|cm|ft|abbr=on}} and a weight of {{cvt|14|kg}} for the previously mentioned specimen. In contrast, a large male in the spring measured 1.5 m (4.91 ft) TL and weighed {{cvt|4.2|kg}}. Males grow larger than females and probably have larger home ranges.

In the genus Varanus has more 80 species of lizards and all of to 11 subgenera, members which vary considerably in sizes:

File:Bengal Monitor at Nagarahole.jpg is the second-largest lizard in Asia after Asian water monitor]]

• The largest representative of the subgenus Empagusia is Bengal monitor (Varanus bengalensis) with a length in {{convert|1.75|m|ft|abbr=on}} and a SVL of {{cvt|75|cm}}, a mass of {{cvt|7.2|kg}},Auffenberg (1994):14-15 and in captivity even more – {{cvt|10.2|kg}}.{{Cite web|url=https://eol.org/pages/790199/articles|title=Bengal Monitor Lizard articles - Encyclopedia of Life|website=Eol.org|access-date=2 July 2022}} However, typical measurements are much less – 1.5 m (4.91 ft) in a length and {{cvt|2.7|kg}} in a mass.{{cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_bengalensis.php|title=Varanus Bengalensis|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=3 June 2022}} Even so, by some reports it grows much larger.{{cite book|author=Daniel Bennett|year=1995|publisher=Viper Press|title=A Little Book Of Monitor Lizards|url=https://www.academia.edu/5593272|isbn =0952663201}}
• Another large species of this group are the clouded monitor (Varanus nebulosus) with a length of 1.5 m (4.91 ft) and a SVL of {{cvt|60|cm}},[http://www.ecologyasia.com/verts/lizards/clouded_monitor.htm Lizards of Southeast Asia : Clouded Monitor - Varanus nebulosus] the roughneck monitor (V. rudicollis), which has a total length of {{convert|1.46|m|ft|abbr=on}}, a SVL of {{cvt|59|cm}} with a mass of {{cvt|4|kg}},{{cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_rudicollis.php|title=Varanus Rudicollis|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=3 June 2022}} the Dumeril's monitor (V. dumerilii) (maximum size is about {{convert|135|cm|ft|abbr=on}} TL. A breeding pair maintained in captivity measured {{convert|130|cm|ft|abbr=on}} TL, {{convert|2950|g|lb|abbr=on}} (male) and {{convert|100|cm|ft|abbr=on}}, {{convert|2300|g|lb|abbr=on}} (female). Wild animals of {{cvt|30|cm}} SVL weigh about {{cvt|1|kg}}){{cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_dumerilii.php|title=Varanus Dumerilii|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=3 June 2022}} and the yellow monitor (V. flavescens) with a maximum length of {{convert|95.2|cm|ft|abbr=on}}, a SVL of {{convert|44.8|cm|in|abbr=on}} and a mass of {{convert|1040|g|lb|abbr=on}}.{{cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_flavescens.php|title=Varanus Flavescens|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=3 June 2022}}

• The largest members of this subgenus are the mangrove monitor (Varanus indicus) and its close relatives with a total length of 1.5 m (4.91 ft){{cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_indlcus.php|title=Varanus Indlcus|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=4 June 2022}} (The largest Mariana monitors (V. tsukamotoi) found on Guam were {{cvt|58|cm}} for male and {{cvt|44|cm}} for female in SVL with wrights of {{convert|1900|g|lb|abbr=on}} and {{convert|500|g|lb|abbr=on}} in weight respectively), the Rainer Günther's monitor (V. rainerguentheri) with a maximum total length of {{convert|1.33|m|ft|abbr=on}}, probably even 1.5 m (4.91 ft),{{cite journal|author=Robert W. Mendyk|year=2010|publisher=International Varanid Interest Group|title=BIAWAK - Quarterly Journal of Varanid Biology and Husbandry|journal=Biawak |volume=4|issue=1|url=http://varanidae.org/Vol4_No1.pdf|issn= 1936-296X}} the tricolor monitor (V. yuwonoi) having the maximum length of {{convert|1.46|m|ft|abbr=on}}, the blue-tailed monitor (V. doreanus) exceeding {{convert|1.35|m|ft|abbr=on}} long, the Rennell Island monitor (V. juxtindicus) reaching {{convert|1.33|m|ft|abbr=on}} in length and the New Ireland monitor (V. douarrha) growing the length in {{convert|1.33|m|ft|abbr=on}}.
• Other large lizards in this group include the quince monitor (Varanus melinus) (maximum length of {{convert|1.28|m|ft|abbr=on}}),{{cite journal|first1=Thomas Ziegler|first2=Norbert Rütz|last1=Johannes Oberreuter|last2=Simone Holst|year=2010|publisher=International Varanid Interest Group|title=First F2 Breeding of the Quince Monitor Lizard Varanus melinus Böhme & Ziegler, 1997 at the Cologne Zoo Aquarium|volume=4|issue=3|pages=82–92|url=http://www.varanidae.org/4_3_Ziegler_et_al.pdf}} the peach-throated monitor (V. jobiensis) (a total length of {{convert|1.2|m|ft|abbr=on}} and a SVL of {{cvt|45|cm}}),{{cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_jobiensis.php|title=Varanus Jobiensis|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=4 June 2022}} the Mussau Island blue-tailed monitor (V. semotus) (a total length of {{convert|1.2|m|ft|abbr=on}} and a SVL of {{cvt|48|cm}}) and the sago monitor (V. obor) (a total length of {{convert|1.13|m|ft|abbr=on}} and a SVL of {{cvt|44|cm}}).

• The largest tree monitor is the blue tree monitor (Varanus macraei) with a maximum total length about {{convert|1.1|m|ft|abbr=on}} and a SVL of {{cvt|36|cm}}. Other large tree monitors are the emerald tree monitor (V. prasinus), which can attain {{convert|1|m|ft|abbr=on}} in total length, {{cvt|30|cm}} in snout-vent length,{{cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_prasinus.php|title=Varanus Prasinus|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=5 June 2022}} the black tree monitor (V. beccarii) with a maximum size of {{cvt|34|cm}} SVL, {{convert|94.5|cm|ft|abbr=on}} total length{{cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_beccari.php|title=Varanus Beccari|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=5 June 2022}} and the Bogert's monitor (V. bogerti) measuring a length of {{convert|94|cm|ft|abbr=on}} with a SVL of {{cvt|32|cm}}.

• Whilst this subgenus has many species, they are the smallest monitor lizards. It includes Dampier Peninsula monitor (Varanus sparnus) – the smallest monitor with a length of {{convert|227|mm|in|abbr=on}}, a SVL of {{convert|116|mm|in|abbr=on}} and a mass of {{cvt|16.3|g}}.
• The largest species in this subgenus is the black-palmed rock monitor (Varanus glebopalma), reaching the maximum size of {{convert|397|mm|in|abbr=on}} and {{convert|1.1|m|ft|abbr=on}} for SVL and total length respectively (an average mass constitute {{cvt|240|g}} with a SVL of {{convert|290|mm|in|abbr=on}}, for the max.size much higher). Another big member of this group is Mitchell's water monitor (Varanus mitchelli), which may grow to a length in {{convert|60|-|96|cm|ft|abbr=on}}{{cite journal|first1=Glen Gaikhorst|first2=James McLaughlin|last1=Brian Larkin|last2=Meagan McPharlin|year=2009|publisher=Wiley-Liss, Inc.|title=Successful Captive Breeding of Mitchell's Water Monitor, Varanus mitchelli (Mertens 1958), at Perth Zoo|journal=Zoo Biology |volume=29 |issue=5 |pages=615–625 |doi=10.1002/zoo.20244 |pmid=19459149 |url=https://www.academia.edu/25004204}} with a SVL of {{convert|22|-|32|cm|in|abbr=on}}.

• The only species Papusaurus is a crocodile monitor (Varanus salvadorii) (see higher).

File:Varanus olivaceus 2.JPG along with its relatives is one of heaviest lizards in the world]]

• These large frugivorous monitor lizards may be {{convert|175|cm|ft|abbr=on}} long or more with a mass of >{{cvt|8|kg}}.{{cite book|first1=Stephanie J.Law|first2=Selvino R. de Kort|last1=Daniel Bennett|last2=Merlijn van Weerd|year=2016|publisher=Herpetological Conservation and Biology|title=Morphology, Activity Area, and Movement Patterns of the Frugivorous Monitor Lizard Varanus bitatawa|pages=467–475|volume=11|issue=3|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/311733944}} The Northern Sierra Madre forest monitor (Varanus bitatawa) with a maximum size instead be {{convert|180|cm|ft|abbr=on}} in length and {{cvt|9|kg}} in mass, the Gray's monitor (V. olivaceus), the biggest individual of which was just {{convert|188|cm|ft|abbr=on}} long and a mass of {{cvt|8.9|kg}} and the Panay monitor (V. mabitang) with the largest specimen which had a length of {{convert|175|cm|ft|abbr=on}} and a mass in {{cvt|8|kg}},{{cite journal|author=Maren Gaukle|year=2010|publisher=International Varanid Interest Group|title=Overview on the Present Knowledge on Varanus mabitang Gaulke and Curio, 2001, Including New Morphological and Meristic Data|volume=4|issue=2|url=http://www.varanidae.org/Vol4_No2_Gaulke.pdf}} are among of the biggest lizards in the world. They measure {{cvt|76.6|cm}}, {{cvt|73|cm}} and {{cvt|70|cm}} SVL respectively.

• The largest species Polydaedalus are the nile monitor (Varanus niloticus) and the black-throated monitor (V. albigularis microstictus) (see higher).
• Another large member of African monitors is a rock monitor, and to be more precise, its type species – white-throated monitor (Varanus albigularis albigularis) with a maximum length of {{convert|2|m|ft|abbr=on}} and {{convert|15|-|17|kg|lb|abbr=on}}{{cite web|url=http://www.monitor-lizards.net/species/polydaedalus/albigularis.html|title=Varanus albigularis |publisher=Monitor-Lizards.net|access-date=2013-06-06|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120731221235/http://www.monitor-lizards.net/species/polydaedalus/albigularis.html|archive-date=2012-07-31}} and an average size of {{convert|0.8|-|1.5|m|ft|abbr=on}} in length and {{convert|3.2|-|5|kg|lb|abbr=on}} for females and {{convert|6|-|8|kg|lb|abbr=on}} for males in mass{{cite web|url=http://reptiliana.wordpress.com/2008/03/01/white-throated-monitor-varanus-albigularis/|title=White Throated Monitor – Varanus albigularis |publisher=Reptiliana: Ultimate Reptile Resource|access-date=2013-06-06|date=March 2008}}{{cite web|url=http://www.waza.org/en/zoo/choose-a-species/reptiles/lizards-and-tuatara/varanus-exanthematicus-albigularis|title=African Savannah Monitor – Varanus exanthematicus albigularis |publisher=WAZA : World Association of Zoos and Aquariums|access-date=2013-06-06}}Gardner BR, Barrows MG (2010). "Yolk coelomitis in a white-throated monitor lizard (Varanus albigularis)". Journal of the South African Veterinary Association 81 (2): 121-122. by some sources. But, however, according to others even mass in {{cvt|7.7|kg}} is a very rarely.
• Large sizes are also reached by also other members of Polydaedalus. This include savannah monitor (Varanus exanthematicus) and Yemen monitor (V. yemenensis) with a length of {{convert|100|cm|ft|abbr=on}} ({{cvt|50|cm}} SVL){{cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_exanthematicus.php|title=Varanus Exanthematicus|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=9 June 2022}} and {{convert|115|cm|ft|abbr=on}} ({{cvt|59|cm}} SVL) respectively (First one can weighing don't less {{convert|1|kg|lb|abbr=on}}) However, Bosc's monitor in captivity can be extremely obese and exceed {{convert|150|cm|ft|abbr=on}} ({{cvt|75|cm}} SVL) long and {{convert|6|kg|lb|abbr=on}}) weight.
• The ornate monitor can attains the length of {{convert|2|m|ft|abbr=on}}, however, the ornate monitor is not currently considered a separate species, but is merely a polymorphism of two different species.Dowell, S.A, D.M. Portik, V. de Buffrenil, I. Ineich, E. Greenbaum, S.O. Kolokotronis and E.R. Hekkala. (2015). Molecular data from contemporary and historical collections reveal a complex story of cryptic diversification in the Varanus (Polydaedalus) niloticus Species Group. Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution. doi:10.1016/j.ympev.2015.10.004

File:Varanus griseus caspius.jpg is a largest lizard in Central Asia, with a maximum reliable length of {{convert|1.4|m|ft|abbr=on}} and a mass of almost {{cvt|3|kg}}]]

• The subgenus Psammosaurus includes large and medium-sized monitor lizards, growing to a length not less than {{convert|120|cm|ft|abbr=on}}. The largest member of this little group and also the largest lizard in Central Asia is the desert monitor (Varanus griseus), specifically Caspian monitor (Varanus griseus caspius) with a max.total length of {{convert|1.4|m|ft|abbr=on}}, a SVL of {{cvt|58.5|cm}} and a mass of {{convert|2,850|g|lb|abbr=on}} and a SVL of {{cvt|46|cm}} with a mass in {{convert|2,700|g|lb|abbr=on}} for longest and heaviest males and females respectively.{{cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_griseus.php|title=Varanus Griseus|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=10 June 2022}} The Nesterov's desert monitor (V. nesterovi) is also quite large, attaining {{convert|1.2|m|ft|abbr=on}} in length and {{cvt|50|cm}} in SVL.

• The Solomon Island spiny monitor (Varanus spinulosus) is a species of subgenus Solomonosaurus, with a maximum reliable length and mass in captivity of {{convert|1|m|ft|abbr=on}} (SVL {{cvt|31|cm}}) and {{cvt|841|g}} respectively.

• The largest Soterosaurus is an Asian water monitor (Varanus salvator) (see higher).
• Second largest after Asian water monitor are the marbled water monitor (Varanus marmoratus) and the Palawan water monitor (Varanus palawanensis) with a total length of almost {{convert|2|m|ft|abbr=on}} (SVL of last one measuring {{cvt|78.8|cm}}).[http://www.monitor-lizards.net/species/soterosaurus/marmoratus.html Marmoratus] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100519024453/http://www.monitor-lizards.net/species/soterosaurus/marmoratus.html |date=2010-05-19 }}, Monitor-lizards.net{{Cite web|url=https://www.gbif.org/species/119385451|title = Varanus palawanensis}} By the data marbled water monitor can weigh about {{cvt|7.2|kg}}, although since V. palawanensis was previously considered a subspecies of V. marmoratus, which species this weight referred to is unknown.
• Even medium-sized monitors in this subgenus are quite large. For example, the yellow-headed water monitor (Varanus cumingi) and the large-scaled water monitor (V. nuchalis) with maximum length of {{convert|1.5|m|ft|abbr=on}} and {{convert|1.45|m|ft|abbr=on}}, a SVL of {{cvt|60|cm}} and {{cvt|53|cm}} and {{cvt|2.5|kg}} and {{cvt|2.8|kg}} in max. mass respectively. Also they include the Togian water monitor (V. togianus) ({{convert|1.5|m|ft|abbr=on}} in TL and {{cvt|65|cm}} in SVL), the Samar water monitor (V. samarensis) ({{convert|1.4|m|ft|abbr=on}} long with {{cvt|53|cm}} SVL), the Rasmussen's water monitor (V. rasmusseni) ({{convert|1.21|m|ft|abbr=on}} in length and SVL {{cvt|46.6|cm}}) and the Enteng's monitor lizard (V. dalubhasa) ({{convert|1.16|m|ft|abbr=on}} long and {{cvt|50.5|cm}} in SVL).

File:ArgusMonitorCincinnati.jpg is third largest Australian lizard with mass more {{cvt|7|kg}}]]

• The largest members of this group are the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis), perentie (V. giganteus) and lace monitor (V. varius) (see higher).
• After them is the yellow-spotted monitor or Argus monitor (Varanus panoptes), which also is the third biggest lizard in Australia, with a maximum length of {{convert|1.6|m|ft|abbr=on}} (SVL of {{cvt|74|cm}}) and mass of {{cvt|7|kg}}, although in captivity huge individuals can weigh about {{cvt|10|kg}} and even more.[http://panoptesv.com/HBD/argus.html Argus Monitor]
• A close relative of the aforementioned species is Gould's monitor (Varanus gouldii), also attains large sizes — exclusively large specimens measuring length of {{convert|1.55|m|ft|abbr=on}} (SVL of {{cvt|67|cm}}) with a mass of {{cvt|5|kg}}.{{cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_gouldii.php|title=Varanus Gouldii|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=2 July 2022}} The Rosenberg's monitor (V. rosenbergi) grows {{convert|1.5|m|ft|abbr=on}} long,{{cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_rosenbergi.php|title=Varanus Rosenbergi|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=2 July 2022}} probably {{convert|1.6|m|ft|abbr=on}} with a SVL of {{cvt|70|cm}}.
• Though not as long as some other species of large varanids, the Spencer's monitor (Varanus spenceri) can have a high weight for its length due to its massive and bulky body, and has a length of {{convert|1.2|m|ft|abbr=on}} (SVL of {{cvt|55|cm}}) and mass from {{cvt|2.25|kg}}{{cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_spenceri.php|title=Varanus Spenceri|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=2 July 2022}} till {{cvt|6|kg}} depending on sources.
• The smallest representative of this genus is the Mertens' water monitor (Varanus mertensi) with a length of {{convert|1.3|m|ft|abbr=on}} (SVL of {{cvt|48|cm}}). Though not as bulky as some other species of monitor lizards, in captivity it can weigh up to {{cvt|4.9|kg}}.{{cite web|url=https://biocyclopedia.com/index/monitor_lizards/varanus_mertensi.php|title=Varanus Mertensi|website=Biocyclopedia.com|access-date=2 July 2022}}

{{see also|Xantusidae}}

• The largest night lizard is the yellow-spotted tropical night lizard (Lepidophylum flavimaculatum) which attains a snout-to-vent length (SVL) of {{convert|12.69|cm|in|abbr=on}} with a tail 1/3 times exceeding the body length.

• The largest xenosaurid is a knob-scaled lizard (Xenosaurus grandis) with a snout-vent length of {{convert|12.9|cm|in|abbr=on}} and a total length of {{convert|24|cm|in|abbr=on}}.Smith GR, Lemos-Espinal JA, Ballinger RE (1997). "Sexual dimorphism in two species of knob-scaled lizards (Genus Xenosaurus) from Mexico". Herpetologica 53: 200-205.

• Megalania – the largest land lizard to have ever lived
• Mosasauridae, an extinct family in the order Squamata which includes the largest lizards of the world
• List of largest reptiles
• List of largest snakes
• List of largest extinct lizards

{{reflist}}

• {{cite web |title=Eastern Blue-tongue Lizard |url=https://australian.museum/learn/animals/reptiles/eastern-blue-tongue-lizard/ |website=The Australian Museum |ref={{SfnRef|Australian Museum|2000}} |year=2000 }}

Lizards

*Largest

Lizards