Lepidothyris
The genus Mochlus encompasses a group of skinks endemic to Africa, known for their cylindrical and robust bodies. These lizards are colloquially called "writhing skinks" due to their distinctive side-to-side movement when handled. Their diet primarily consists of insects and millipedes.
Key Facts
- ›Mochlus skinks are found exclusively in Africa.
- ›They are characterized by their cylindrical and robust body shape.
- ›Commonly referred to as "writhing skinks" because of their movement when held.
- ›Their diet includes insects and millipedes.
- ›The genus contains 19 recognized species.
Writhing Skinks
Africa
Cylindrical In Shape, Robust Build
Insects, Millipedes
Exhibit Side-To-Side Movement When Held
About Lepidothyris
The Genus Mochlus
The genus Mochlus is a group of lizards belonging to the subfamily Lygosominae within the family Scincidae, commonly known as skinks. This genus is endemic to Africa, meaning its species are naturally found only on this continent.
Physical Characteristics and Behavior
Skinks of the genus Mochlus are recognized for their distinctive physical traits, being cylindrical in shape and robust in build. They have earned the common name "writhing skinks" from the characteristic side-to-side movement they make when held, a behavior that aids in their defense or escape.
Diet
The dietary habits of Mochlus skinks are focused on small invertebrates. They primarily feed on insects and millipedes, classifying them as insectivores within the broader lizard community.
Species Diversity
The genus Mochlus comprises 19 recognized species. Some notable species include Mochlus fernandi (the fire skink), Mochlus laeviceps (the common writhing skink), and Mochlus sundevallii (Sundevall's writhing skink). Several species were originally described under different genera before being reassigned to Mochlus.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mochlus skinks known for?
Mochlus skinks are known for their cylindrical and robust bodies. They are also commonly called "writhing skinks" due to the side-to-side movement they exhibit when handled.
What do Mochlus skinks eat?
The diet of skinks in the genus Mochlus primarily consists of insects and millipedes. This indicates they are insectivores.
Where are Mochlus skinks found?
The genus Mochlus is endemic to Africa, meaning these skinks are naturally found only on the African continent.
How many species are in the genus Mochlus?
There are 19 recognized species within the genus Mochlus. Some of these species were originally described in different genera before being classified under Mochlus.
Related Lizards
Barkudia insularis
The Madras spotted skink (Barkudia insularis) is a critically endangered, limbless lizard species first described in 1917. Resembling a large earthworm, it inhabits the subsoil and is thought to feed on small arthropods. While initially believed to be restricted to mangrove habitats around Barkuda Island in Chilka Lake, Odisha, India, later observations suggest a broader distribution within the state.
Bridled skink
The bridled skink (Heremites vittatus), also known as the bridled mabuya, is a species of skink found across North Africa and the Middle East. These lizards typically inhabit open, sandy or stony areas with sparse vegetation, often near water sources like wetlands and oases. They are characterized by their smooth, shiny bodies, cone-shaped heads, and easily breakable, tapering tails.
Günther's writhing skink
Günther's writhing skink, also known as Günther's supple skink, is a species of lizard endemic to India. It is characterized by its preference for forest habitats and a diet primarily consisting of ants, termites, and other insects. The specific name honors the herpetologist Albert Günther.