Book Review - A Guide to the Anolis Lizards (Anoles) of Mainland Central and South America - Princeton University Press

      I was amused when I saw that Steven Poe had used as the epigraph to Chapter 3, the wise words of David Hillis, who defined anoles as, "A group of small brown lizards that all look the same." Based on the sheer number of  pictures of unidentified lizards from my travels in Central and South America, I second that statement! I will be using this book to see if I can improve on my past dismal record.

     If one may hope for a reference work to help in this quest, Poe has just written it. Not only will identification become easier, the often slippery floor of taxonomy has become much more stable. In fact, this book may justifiably lay claim to the title of THE stable taxonomy of these enchanting little reptiles.

     An array of exciting colour photographs showing anoles with dewlap extended provides a glorious visual assist to identification, not only as to species but also to illustrate sexual dimorphism.

     It is a visual feast to see a catalogue of species featuring this key feature, with each species labelled and providing a link to the page where detailed coverage awaits the curious reader.

     Even with Poe's own commitment and dedication, with graduate students to help, and with the contribution of other photographers, blanks still remain. There is an opportunity for all of us to fill in the gaps.

     A chapter is devoted to the fine art of collecting anoles, with myriad practical tips, and the admonition  that the best collecting takes place at night. If you are bent on studying anoles and seek specimens to elucidate your quest, be prepared to turn your circadian rhythm upside down!

     Poe mentions the value of various internet platforms and the contribution they make to advancing scientific knowledge, but adds a wise caveat. He states, "I accept iNaturalist observations if I was able to confirm species identification based on the photographic evidence accompanying the observation." (Bold type mine). To accept anything less is to dilute the value of the platform.

     The information provided in the species accounts is top notch, and the range maps are very useful indeed.

     This is altogether a terrific book. It is a field guide, a "how-to" manual, and a cornucopia of knowledge from the world's premier expert in the taxa. I am truly delighted to have it. 

A Guide to the Anolis Lizards (Anoles) of Mainland Central and South America - Princeton University Press

Steven Poe

Paperback - US$39.95 - ISBN: 9780691192871

432 pages - 5.875 x 8.25 inches (14.69 x 20.625 cm)

445 colour plates - 240 maps

Publication date: 09 September, 2025