What is a roughneck monitor lizard?

A roughneck monitor lizard is a medium-sized South Asian species of lizard that is native to the rainforests of Borneo, Thailand, Myanmar, Sumatra, Malaysia and Bangka. It mostly lives on the ground, although they also climb trees.

The roughneck name originates from the prominent pointed scales that adorn the necks of adults. All roughneck monitor lizards have these scales, regardless of sex. Like other varanid lizards, they are hunters that prey on frogs and insects. As of 2014, their behavior in the wild is not well-documented, although they are kept in the pet trade. They are shy of humans and are rarely seen in their native habitat.