Bibron's skink
Bibron's skink (Eutropis bibronii), also known as Bibron's mabuya or the seashore skink, is a species of lizard native to India and Sri Lanka. This fossorial species is characterized by its flattened head, sharp dorsal and flank scales, and distinctive olive-brown coloration with light vertebral and dark dorso-lateral stripes. It primarily inhabits coastal sand dunes and low vegetation.
Key Facts
- ›Native to India and Sri Lanka.
- ›Possesses sharp scales on its dorsum and flanks.
- ›Features a flattened head with a transparent disk on the lower eyelid.
- ›Typically found in coastal lowland areas on sand dunes.
- ›Distinguished by olive-brown coloration with a light vertebral stripe and a dark dorso-lateral stripe.
Bibron's Mabuya, Bibron's Skink, Seashore Skink
India, Sri Lanka
- Head Is Somewhat Flattened.
- Lower Eyelid Has A Transparent Disk.
- Scales On the Dorsum and Flanks Are Sharp.
- Dorsum Is Olive Brown.
- Features A Light Vertebral Stripe Which Is Dark-Edged.
- A Dark Dorso-Lateral Stripe Runs From the Eye To the Base of the Tail.
- Scale Rows At Midbody Number 28–30.
- 14–20 Lamellae Under the Fourth Toe.
Fossorial
About Bibron's skink
Bibron's skink, scientifically known as Eutropis bibronii, is a species of lizard belonging to the family Scincidae. This species is native to the Indian subcontinent, specifically found in India and Sri Lanka.
Description and Habitat
The Bibron's skink is characterized by a somewhat flattened head and sharp scales along its dorsum and flanks. Its coloration is typically olive brown, distinguished by a light vertebral stripe that is edged in dark brown, and a prominent dark dorso-lateral stripe extending from the eye to the base of the tail. The lower eyelid of this skink features a transparent disk. Behaviorally, Eutropis bibronii is a fossorial species, meaning it spends a significant amount of time burrowing. It is primarily found in coastal lowland environments, generally at elevations below 20 meters (66 feet) above sea level, inhabiting sand dunes with low vegetation. While less common, there are unconfirmed reports of this skink being found further inland at higher altitudes.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
The specific name, bibronii, honors the French herpetologist Gabriel Bibron (1806–1848), recognizing his contributions to the field of herpetology. Other common names by which this species is known include Bibron's mabuya and the seashore skink, reflecting its descriptive characteristics and habitat.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bibron's skink commonly known as?
Bibron's skink is also commonly referred to as Bibron's mabuya or the seashore skink. Its scientific name is Eutropis bibronii.
Where is Bibron's skink found?
This species is native to India and Sri Lanka. It is typically found in coastal lowland areas, often on sand dunes with low vegetation.
What are the physical characteristics of Bibron's skink?
Bibron's skink has a somewhat flattened head and sharp scales on its dorsum and flanks. Its coloration is olive brown, marked by a light vertebral stripe with dark edges and a dark dorso-lateral stripe running from the eye to the tail base. The lower eyelid includes a transparent disk.
What type of habitat does Bibron's skink prefer?
Bibron's skink is a fossorial species, meaning it burrows. It is typically found in coastal lowland environments, less than 20 meters above sea level, often on sand dunes among low vegetation.
Related Lizards
Mabuya bibronii
Mabuya bibronii, also known as Bibron's mabuya or Bibron's skink, is a species of lizard found in India and Sri Lanka. This fossorial species typically inhabits coastal sand dunes and low vegetation, characterized by its olive-brown coloration with distinct light vertebral and dark dorso-lateral stripes. The transparent disk in its lower eyelid and sharp dorsal and flank scales are notable physical features.
Blainville's horned lizard
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Brown anole
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