[4][5] H. exasperatum is found in southwestern Chihuahua and southern Sonora, Mexico,[3] up to an altitude of 1,400 m (4,600 ft).

[2] As an adult, the Rio Fuerte beaded lizard ranges from 60 to 90 cm (23.6 to 35.4 in) in total length (including tail).

It is very similar to the Mexican beaded lizard in appearance and size.

[3] The Rio Fuerte beaded lizard is a member of the family Helodermatidae.

The specific name, exasperatum, means "completely rough" in Latin.