Which lizard is famous for running briefly across the surface of water?

The basilisk lizard is famous for running briefly across the surface of water.

Basilisks use powerful hind legs and unusually long toes fringed with scales. When the lizard strikes the water quickly, these toes spread and trap air, creating enough upward force for its feet to avoid sinking immediately. The animal rapidly moves its legs while keeping its body raised, allowing it to cross streams and ponds.

The common name “Jesus Christ lizard” refers to this striking behavior, not to any religious characteristic. Several species in the genus Basiliscus can perform the water-running maneuver, so the answer describes the group commonly known as basilisk lizards rather than one single species.

Young basilisks are especially effective at crossing water because they are light. Adults can also do it, but usually for shorter distances. The lizards are native to tropical regions of Central America and northern South America, where waterways provide both habitat and escape routes from predators.