What is the world's largest type of lizard?

The world's largest lizard is the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis), which is native to the Indonesian islands of Komodo, Rinca, Flores, and Gili Motang. Adult Komodo dragons can grow up to 10 feet (3 meters) in length and weigh over 300 pounds (136 kg).

These carnivorous reptiles are apex predators in their habitat and use their sharp teeth and powerful jaws to hunt and kill prey, including deer and water buffalo. They are also known for their toxic saliva which contains bacteria that can cause deadly infections in their prey.

The world's largest lizard is the Komodo dragon. It is a member of the monitor lizard family Varanidae that is endemic to the Indonesian islands of Komodo, Rinca, Flores, and Gili Motang. It is the largest extant species of lizard, growing to a maximum length of 3 m (9.8 ft), and weighing up to 70 kg (150 lb). As a result of their size, Komodo dragons are apex predators, and dominate the ecosystems in which they live. Komodo dragons hunt and ambush prey including invertebrates, birds, and mammals. Komodo dragons' group behavior in hunting is exceptional in the reptile world.

The Komodo dragon is classified by the IUCN as Endangered and is listed on the IUCN Red List. The species' sensitivity to natural and man-made threats has long been recognized by conservationists, zoological societies, and the Indonesian government. Komodo National Park was founded in 1980 to protect Komodo dragon populations on islands including Komodo, Rinca, and Padar. Later, the Wae Wuul and Wolo Tado Reserves were opened on Flores to aid Komodo dragon conservation. Komodo dragons generally avoid encounters with humans.

Here are some interesting facts about Komodo dragons:

• They are the only venomous lizards in the world. Their venom is produced in glands in their lower jaws and is delivered through two grooves in their teeth.
• Their saliva is also full of bacteria that can cause infection in their prey.
• They can run up to 20 mph (32 km/h) for short distances.
• They can live for up to 50 years in the wild.
• They are solitary animals, but they will gather to eat large prey.
• They are an important part of the ecosystem on the islands where they live. They help to control populations of deer and other animals.

Komodo dragons are truly amazing creatures. They are the largest lizards in the world and they play an important role in the ecosystems they inhabit.