Amphisbaena absaberi
Oviparous (inferred from genus)
Amphisbaena absaberi is a worm lizard species endemic to Brazil, specifically known from its type locality in Cáceres. Characterized by its fossorial nature and likely insectivorous diet, this species exhibits a compressed head and a distinctly rounded, compressed tail, with males being slightly larger than females. It was originally classified under the genus Cerclophia before being transferred to Amphisbaena.
Key Facts
- ›Endemic to Brazil, known only from its type location.
- ›Possesses a fossorial (burrowing) lifestyle.
- ›Likely insectivorous, feeding on insects and other small invertebrates.
- ›Males are slightly larger than females.
- ›Features a compressed head and a rounded, compressed tail.
- ›Originally described as Cerclophia absaberi, later reclassified into the genus Amphisbaena.
Brazil
CerradãO, Disturbed Areas
- Snout-Vent Length of Approximately 300mm.
- Total Body Length Up To 325mm.
- Mass of Up To 22g.
- Males Are Slightly Larger Than Females.
- Dorsal Surface Is Light Brown.
- Tail Is A Conspicuously Darker Shade of Brown.
- Tail Is Rounded and Compressed.
- Has 239-242 Body Annuli.
- Possesses Two Precloacal Pores.
- Head Is Compressed Relative To Other Members of Its Genus.
- Has A Distinct Dorsal Sulcus.
- Features A Segmented Caudal Keel.
Insects, Other Small Invertebrates
Fossorial
About Amphisbaena absaberi
Amphisbaena absaberi is a species of worm lizard belonging to the family Amphisbaenidae. This reptile is endemic to Brazil and is currently known only from the specific location where its type specimens were discovered. Its scientific name honors Brazilian geographer Aziz Nacib Ab'Sáber.
Taxonomy and Discovery
The holotype of Amphisbaena absaberi was collected on January 15, 1993, in Cáceres, Brazil. The specimen was found in a cerradão area that had been disturbed by bulldozer activity. Initially classified under the genus Cerclophia as Cerclophia absaberi, the species was later transferred to the genus Amphisbaena in 2009, following the results of a phylogenetic study.
Physical Description
Amphisbaena absaberi exhibits several distinct physical characteristics. Adult specimens can reach a snout-vent length of approximately 300mm, with a total body length extending up to 325mm, and can weigh up to 22g. Males are noted to be slightly larger than females. The dorsal surface of the lizard is typically a light brown, while its tail is a conspicuously darker shade of brown. The tail itself is rounded and compressed. The species possesses between 239 to 242 body annuli and two precloacal pores. Notably, its head is compressed in comparison to other members of the Amphisbaena genus, and it features a distinct dorsal sulcus and a segmented caudal keel.
Ecology and Behavior
Information regarding the ecology of Amphisbaena absaberi is limited, primarily inferred from its holotype and paratypes. Like many other species within its genus, Amphisbaena absaberi is fossorial, meaning it lives underground and is adapted for burrowing. Based on its habitat and morphology, it is likely insectivorous, feeding on a diet of insects and other small invertebrates found in its subterranean environment.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Amphisbaena absaberi?
Amphisbaena absaberi is a species of worm lizard belonging to the family Amphisbaenidae. It is native to Brazil and is primarily known from the area where its type specimens were collected.
Where is Amphisbaena absaberi found?
This species is endemic to Brazil. Its known distribution is limited to its type location, which was found in a disturbed cerradão area in Cáceres.
What does Amphisbaena absaberi eat?
Based on its genus and fossorial habits, Amphisbaena absaberi is believed to be insectivorous. Its diet likely consists of insects and other small invertebrates found underground.
What are the physical characteristics of Amphisbaena absaberi?
Amphisbaena absaberi can reach a snout-vent length of approximately 300mm and a total length of up to 325mm, with a mass of up to 22g. It has a compressed head, a rounded and compressed tail, and between 239-242 body annuli.
How was Amphisbaena absaberi classified?
Initially, Amphisbaena absaberi was classified as Cerclophia absaberi. However, following a phylogenetic study, it was transferred to the genus Amphisbaena in 2009.
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