Classification:

• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Reptilia
• Order: Squamata
• Genus: Varanus

Comments:

1. 1. Varanus monitor is commonly known as common Indian monitor.
2. 2. It is about 60 to 90 cm and brownish with darker spots in rows.
3. 3. The skin is covered with very small scales and tubercles above, while the ventral scales are squarish and arranged in transverse rows.
4. 4. Head is flattened and bears wide mouth, fixed eyes, nostrils and ear opening.
5. 5. Neck is long and trunk is large and stout.
6. 6. Tail is very long, thick and stores fat.
7. 7. The limbs are well developed and stout. Claws are very much powerful and as such that animal was used for climbing on steep walls.
8. 8. Tongue is smooth, long, slender, bifid and protrusible, retractable into sheath.
9. 9. Teeth are pleurodont.
10. 10. Varanus is found in Africa, Asia, and Australia. Varanus monitor is found in India.

Source:

1. Practical Zoology Vertebrates by S.S.Lal. 2. A Manual of Practical Zoology Chordates by Dr. P.S. Verma.