How to tell the difference between Pogona vitticeps and Pogona barbata! This is one of the most common questions I get asked. Here are the common ways to differentiate are: 1. Head shape - the base of the head is broader in vitticeps compared to narrow in barbata 2. Scales on the back of the head - straight to slightly angled back on vitticeps compared to scales curving back in an arc for barbata 3. Lateral body spines - very prominent single to double row on vitticeps compared to less long and