Autarchoglossa

Autarchoglossa is a division of reptiles that includes all lizards except the Ascalabota. This group is part of the larger order Squamata, which also encompasses snakes and amphisbaenians. Within Squamata, a significant evolutionary split occurred, leading to the Iguania and the Scleroglossa. Autarchoglossa is a subgroup within Scleroglossa.123

Autarchoglossans are characterized by their enhanced use of the vomeronasal system, also known as Jacobson's organ, for chemoreception. This allows them to effectively discriminate between species, sexes, and prey types based on chemical cues. This keen sense of smell supports an active foraging lifestyle, where they spend considerable time searching for energy-rich prey, including hidden insects and larvae. This contrasts with the "sit-and-wait" predatory strategy common in Iguania. The development of their vomeronasal system has also influenced their social behavior and mating systems.3