They are venomous and notably aggressive, with some herpetologists describing them as "cantankerous and savage". Some herpetologists claim this species has more common names than any other lizard. It had previously been listed as a subspecies of "Varanus bengalensis" by some herpetologists. The species are regarded as charismatic and popular with herpetologists. The genus is under scrutiny by herpetologists. This nomenclature has been rejected by other herpetologists who assert "leloii" is synonymous with "swinhoei". Schmidt was one of the most important herpetologists in the 20th century. There are long-standing differences and disputes between herpetoculturists and professional herpetologists. It is the official journal of the American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists. He had already been corresponding with other herpetologists across the country. Sometimes, W. Peters is used to prevent confusion with herpetologists and James A. Peters. In 1936, Blanchard was elected vice president of the American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists. Herpetologists collecting specimens for preservation are also blamed for depleting local populations . Herpetologists use blowguns to capture elusive lizards with stun darts. More generally, herpetologists work on functional problems in ecology, evolution, physiology, behavior etc.