Description: This species closely resembles the Fiji banded iguana but has recently been determined to be a separate species. It is bright green with males having light blue to white bands as well as spots on the neck. Females of this species tend to be a uniform bright green on top. One of the morphological (physical) characteristics that can be used to identify it is a cream ring around the nostril.

Distribution: Fiji

Habitat: Diurnal, arboreal species.

This species was discovered in 2008 and was determined to be genetically distinct from other Fiji iguanas. This and other species of Fiji iguanas represent a highly understudied sector of iguana conservation. In 2005, the IIF granted Peter Harlow and Suzanne Morrison funding to conduct a natural history and conservation biology study on the Fijian crested iguana. Since then, the IIF has provided additional grants to fund research in the phylogeny and natural history of Fijian iguanas. With marked declines continuing and the critical status of the entire genus increasing, additional studies were needed. Due to the large geographic range, many areas had not been adequately sampled. In 2009 the IIF approved a grant to fund studies that would fill in the gaps of knowledge in natural history of Fiji iguanas. During this study 15 priority islands were surveyed and, among the most notable results, this new species of iguana was discovered. Additionally, this research identified potential populations and areas to be recommended for national park status due to more robust populations of native iguanas as well as areas that required additional monitoring due to the introduction of invasive green iguanas.

The International Iguana Foundation has approved another grant for Fiji iguana conservation to take place in 2011.

For information on conservation, management, and how the IIF is working to save this species, please see the projects section.

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