A new species of dragon lizard found in western Queensland has been formally described and confirmed by scientists.

The Diporiphora ameliae, or Amelia's canegrass dragon, was discovered several years ago on a station south-west of Longreach.

It has now been studied, and a paper independently peer reviewed and published in a scientific journal.

Arid zone biologist and grazier Angus Emmott found the lizard and was part of the team to study it.

Amelia Emmott holds the new species of dragon lizard named after her. ( Audience submitted: Angus Emmott )

Mr Emmott says the arid zone is rich with reptiles and it is not uncommon to find new species.

"In the Australian arid zone context, we have got the richest reptile assemblages anywhere on the planet," he said.

"In Australia now, we are somewhere around 1,000 species of reptiles, and we are discovering and describing new ones in Australia - somewhere between 20 and 50 a year at this point in time.

"The numbers are continuing to climb quite rapidly."

Mr Emmott says the lizard's name has special meaning.

"We actually named it after my daughter Amelia - so it is Diporiphora, which is its genetic name - ameliae, Diporiphora ameliae, or Amelia's canegrass dragon," he said.

"She is a fourth generation custodian of Noonbah Valetta where it is found."

Mr Emmott says the news has been "really good timing", as his family celebrated his daughter's 21st birthday at a party over the weekend.