The generic name, Ctenosaura, is derived from two Greek words: ctenos (Κτενός), meaning "comb" (referring to the comblike spines on the lizard's back and tail), and saura (σαύρα), meaning "lizard".

The tail on this species is heavily armored with five rings of spines forming longitudinal ridges.

Like most Ctenosaura the iguanas are born a bright green color fading to brown as the animal ages.

Total population size is not known, but it is estimated that there may be fewer than 2,500 mature individuals.

[1] It is threatened by habitat loss through deforestation, overcollection through an unregulated exploitation for the pet trade,[1] and it is even hunted by humans as a food item.