Spiny-tailed lizard oil, anyone?

STRANGE SIGHT: Mohd Rajawali Ahmad, 33, with the Arabian Dhub perched on his hand. Heclaims that the ointment and oil produced from the lizard has healing properties.

WITH its turtle-like head, lizard’s body and spiny tail, the Arabian Dhub is a bizarre sight at the Putra World Trade Centre bazaar.  

The Dhub, also called the spiny-tailed lizard, was displayed at a stall selling minyak Dhub and makjun Dhub (Dhub oil and paste) for its health benefits and as an aphrodisiac. 

“I brought it here to show the public what a live Dhub looks like,” said its owner Mohd Rajawali Ahmad, 33.  

Dhubs originate from the Middle East and live in loose colonies, some for as long as 90 years. An adult Dhub can grow up to 65cm long.  

They are unique in that they do not drink any water, but secrete uric acid via special glands in their bodies.