Here are 7 “dragons” that still exist on Earth.
Top Dragons Still Existing on Earth
1. Komodo Dragon
The Komodo dragon is the largest lizard on Earth, measuring up to 3 meters long and weighing over 136 kg. Female Komodo dragons can reproduce through parthenogenesis, fertilizing their own eggs.
The Komodo dragon is one of the largest lizard species on Earth. (Photo: Discovery).
After laying eggs, the mother Komodo dragon protects her nest for 6 months, ensuring the hatchlings can emerge safely.
Once hatched, young Komodo dragons must fight for survival against cannibalism within their own species. The survivors will grow to become apex predators.
2. Leafy Sea Dragon
The leafy sea dragon (scientific name: Phycodurus eques) is a large marine fish. This rare creature resembles a seahorse, but it is actually more closely related to the pipefish.
The leafy sea dragon has a seahorse-like appearance. (Photo: Discovery).
Leafy sea dragons are native to the southern coast of Australia, where they camouflage among seagrass beds.
3. Bearded Dragon
Bearded dragons resemble the dragons from Game of Thrones, equipped with a spiky scale armor.
Bearded dragons inspired designs in Game of Thrones. (Illustration: Discovery).
Originating from Australia, bearded dragons have become popular pets due to their gentle nature and eagerness to learn. Scientists named them after the “beard” formed by spiky scales under their chins, which they can puff up depending on their mood.
4. Blue Dragon (Glaucus Atlanticus)
The blue dragon is a small creature, yet very powerful. These beautifully shaped organisms are venomous and can deliver painful stings, posing a threat to human life in some cases.
The blue dragon is a small creature, yet it possesses tremendous vitality. (Illustration: Discovery).
Measuring just 2.5 cm, the blue dragon preys on much larger creatures by using its venom to kill its prey. This venom also serves as a defense mechanism against other predators.
5. Flying Dragon (Draco)
The flying dragon, or Draco, is a lizard capable of “gliding” through the air like a mythical dragon.
The flying dragon originates from the lizard family. (Illustration: Discovery).
The membrane between their forelimbs and hind limbs is supported by an extended ribcage, allowing Dracos to leap up to 20 meters from tree to tree.
Currently, there are over 40 species of flying dragons, all small, averaging about 7 cm in length.
6. Chinese Water Dragon
The Asian water dragon, or Chinese water dragon, is a bright green lizard found widely across Asia.
The Chinese water dragon is also known as the Asian black dragon. (Photo: Discovery).
This creature has high, horn-like scales covering its body. The Asian water dragon is an excellent swimmer and a skilled climber, equipped with thick, sharp claws.
7. Dragon Millipede
The pink dragon millipede, scientifically named Desmoxytes purpurosea, is a vibrant pink millipede found in caves in Thailand.
The Desmoxytes purpurosea is also referred to as the dragon millipede. (Illustration: Discovery).
Measuring only 3 cm long, these small creatures possess both spines and venom. After heavy rainfall, large numbers of dragon millipedes gather on the ground.
This species is easily recognizable due to its striking pink color, which serves as a warning signal to predators that they are not suitable for consumption.
