Nigerian lizards of the genus Agama (Sauria: Agamidae)

The external morphology, distribution and systematics of the species of Agama occurring in Nigeria are reviewed.The number and position of the dermal sense organs on the trunk scales are used to help clarify the status and relationships of the five species recognized.Agama agama benueensis Monard is shown to be a complex comprising two distinct species, one of which is described as new, the other sympatric with but unrelated to Agama agama (Linnaeus).Agama boensis Monard is not a valid form; the types are a mixed series of Agama sankaranica Chabanaud and Agama weidholzi Wettstein.