This species of Iguana is regarded as Vulnerable at the moment but is being considered for reclassification to Endangered. The reason is the pressure being placed on the Banded Iguana by increased populations of people, mongoose, feral pigs, cats and goats. All combine to destroy either the species natural habitat or their eggs.

The male is bright emerald green with bluish gray bands from the neck to the tail base. The female is bright emerald green on the upper parts and yellowish green on the underside. These colors and marking provide excellent camouflage in the leaves and twigs from natural predators such as the Pacific Boa, Swamp Harrier, Grey Goshawk and White-collared Kingfisher.

Typically found on the islands of Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Kadavu, Gau, Odalau and some of the islands of the Lau Group, their habitat is varied and includes the costal beach-forests, lowland forests and swampy areas. Little is known of their mating habits in the wild but the female will lay 3 to 6 eggs in the soil where they will incubate for a period of between 18 to 30 weeks.