The basilisk is a name now applied to a genus of saurian reptiles (Basiliscus), belonging to the family Iguanidae, distinguished by an elevated crest or row of scales, erectible at pleasure, which, like the dorsal fins of some fishes, runs along the whole length of the back and tail. The mitred or hooded basilisk (Basiliscus mitrdtus} is especially remarkable for a membranous bag at the back of the head, of the size of a small hen's egg, which can be inflated with air at pleasure. The other species have such hoods also, but of a less size. To this organ they owe their name, which recalls the basilisk of fable, though in reality they are exceedingly harmless and lively creatures. The Basiliscus amboinensis is a native of the Indian Archipelago, where it is much used for food, It frequents trees overhanging water, into which it drops when alarmed. Research Basilisk
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Nature
Research Basilisk