Corytophanids are found from Mexico, through Central America, and as far south as Ecuador.

This crest is a sexually dimorphic characteristic in males of Basiliscus, but is present in both sexes of Corytophanes and Laemanctus.

[6] In Corytophanes, the head crests are used in defensive displays, where the lateral aspect of the body is brought about to face a potential predator in an effort to look bigger.

All corytophanids are excellent climbers, and they are usually found in trees or low bushes.

[4] Family Corytophanidae[8] Nota bene: In the following lists, a binomial authority in parentheses indicates that the species was originally described in a different genus.