Nostril between three shields, the lower of which is the first labial. Eyelids present; a scaly fold across the throat. Ventral scales four-sided, smooth. Femoral pores. Toes 5-5, keeled beneath, and toothed on the sides.
The species hitherto known of this genus are African; but it also appears to be represented in the East Indies: Jerdon refers a Lizard from the Nilgherries to this genus; and I have also found an Acanthodactylus in the late East India Company's Collection, stated to be from Hindostan. Following is the description from which we are expected to recognize the species discovered by Mr. Jerdon; it appears to differ from the other (A. cantor is) in its coloration:-
Acanthodactylus nilglierrensis, Jerd. (Journ. As. Soc. Beng. xxii. p. 476):-"Anterior edge of ear toothed, scaly; collar transverse; scales of back somewhat larger behind than in front; an occipital plate.-This Lizard was obtained by W. Elliott, Esq., near Coonoor. Its colours in spirits are of a pale pearl-grey, with a row of black spots on its back, another row on its sides somewhat larger and white, edged black. Length of one 51A2 inches, of which the tail is 3."