Hemicordylus, the false girdled lizards, is a genus comprising two lizard species endemic to the Cape Fold Belt of southern South Africa.
Their maximum snout-to-vent length is about 76 mm. They have gracile features, with a phenotype which is described as intermediate between typical Cordylus and the larger, more robust Pseudocordylus. They have long limbs, and long slender digits. Some populations are melanistic and sexually dichromatic.[1] The melanistic populations have been shown to be ecotypes rather than relics in the related genus Karusasaurus.[2]
Their specialized adaptation to steep rock faces, is believed to have favoured their agility and lightly armored anatomy.[1][3] They give live birth to 1–3 young.[1]
Hemicordylus, the false girdled lizards, is a genus comprising two lizard species endemic to the Cape Fold Belt of southern South Africa.
