[2] It has some minor morphological characteristics which differ from the Turks and Caicos rock iguana, Cyclura carinata.

[3] Further phylogenic study of mtDNA haplotypes by scientists at Utah Valley State College in 2007, determined that this animal should not be considered a valid subspecies merely upon population isolation and slight morphological differences, but rather that it is genetically, very similar to the Turks and Caicos rock iguana (Cyclura carinata) and that subspecies status should be revoked to include this population in conservation and intra-species breeding.

[6] Bartsch's iguana is greenish to brownish-gray, with a yellow dorsal crest, faint yellow-brown reticulations on the bodies of the adults, and a golden iris.

[7] Like other members of the genus Cyclura, males of this species have larger femoral pores on their thighs, which are used to release pheromones.

[7][9] It has been noted that "Australian pine" trees (Casuarina equisetifolia) introduced by man to the cay may pose a problem as the needles are inedible and their tall size prevents native plants, which Bartsch's iguana relies on for food, from growing.