For the very first time, scientists have documented a shocking discovery. In a study published in the journal Nature, a particular species of lizard known as the Australian bearded dragons are found to exhibit sex reversal in the wild.

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Based on the recent study conducted by a team of researchers from the University of Canberra, they determined a first-of-its-kind phenomenon that has not been observed before. According NYC Today, the scientists have concluded that sex chromosomes are not always the determinants of a reptile's gender. They also observed that at high temperatures, Australian bearded dragons in the wild that have male chromosomes, exhibited outwardly female characteristics.

Even though previous research on the gender reversal in reptiles under warm temperatures have been done, Business Insider noted that the recent study is the first ever attempt to examine this phenomenon in the wild. As said by the scientists, it is how they behave and reproduce at hotter temperatures that establishes their gender.

Researchers added that high temperatures could also have similar effects in other animals, however, they emphasized the study might not have a bearing on humans, CBC News has learned.

Meanwhile, as the new study revealed that hotter temperatures are messing with the gender of the Australian bearded dragon lizards, here 3 amazing facts we compiled about them.

1. The Australian bearded dragon, whose scientific name is Pogona vitticeps, is a medium-sized lizard that are generally 12-24 inches in length from their head to the tip of their tail. Their colors also vary, which can help determine what environment they originated.

2. Bearded dragons have triangular-shaped heads, which contain rows of spikes resembling thorns. Underneath their heads are rows of spiked scales, which when puffed up appears like a beard. When breeding, these scales can change colors, usually turning darker.

Their bodies, on the other hand, are supported by four stout legs. They have well-muscled flat bodies with a row of spikes that runs down each side of the abdomen. Their tail is generally half the length of their body, which will not fall off and regenerate when threatened as compared to other lizards.

3. Bearded dragons are usually found in Australia's desert regions. They live in hot arid climates, such as dry woodlands and savannahs. They are also semi-arboreal, diurnal and have excellent eyesight. They can be aggressive to other dragons and are very territorial. Their average lifespan is around 5 to 8 years.

For more information about these gender-bending lizards, check out TheBeardedDragon.org and Pogopogona.com.

Tagsbearded dragon, Facts, Science