Mabuya mabouya
Mabuya mabouya·Scincidae
The Mabuya mabouya, commonly known as the Greater Martinique skink, is a species of skink native to the island of Martinique. It is characterized by its shiny, bronze-colored skin and distinctive light stripes along its upper flanks. Following a 2005 taxonomic revision, its known distribution was restricted to Martinique, leading to concerns about its potential extinction.
Key Facts
- ›Native to the island of Martinique.
- ›Possesses shiny, bronze-colored skin.
- ›Features a pair of light stripes along its upper flanks.
- ›Previously believed to be widespread in the Neotropics.
- ›Taxonomic revision in 2005 redefined its endemic range to Martinique.
- ›Currently feared to be possibly extinct due to its restricted distribution.
Greater Martinique Skink
Martinique
- Shiny, Bronze-Colored Skin.
- A Pair of Light Stripes Running Along Its Upper Flanks.
Restricted Distribution
About Mabuya mabouya
Mabuya mabouya: The Greater Martinique Skink
The Mabuya mabouya, commonly referred to as the Greater Martinique skink, is a species of skink historically associated with the island of Martinique. This reptile is distinguished by its lustrous, bronze-hued skin, further characterized by a pair of pale stripes that traverse its upper flanks.
Taxonomy and Distribution
Historically, Mabuya mabouya was believed to inhabit a much broader range across the Neotropics. However, a significant taxonomic reassessment conducted in 2005 led to a redefinition of its geographical distribution. This revision concluded that the species is, in fact, endemic solely to Martinique. This drastically restricted range has raised grave concerns about the species' current viability, with fears that it may be possibly extinct.
Physical Characteristics
The Greater Martinique skink's appearance is notable for its shiny, metallic bronze coloration. Complementing this coloration are the distinct light stripes that run along the upper sides of its body, serving as a key identifying feature.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mabuya mabouya?
The Mabuya mabouya, also known as the Greater Martinique skink, is a species of skink found on the island of Martinique. It is recognized by its shiny, bronze coloration and prominent light stripes on its sides.
Where is the Mabuya mabouya found?
The Mabuya mabouya is endemic to Martinique. A significant taxonomic revision in 2005 established that its range is restricted to this single island, overturning previous assumptions of a wider distribution.
What are the physical characteristics of the Greater Martinique skink?
This skink species is described as having shiny, bronze-colored skin. A notable feature is the presence of a pair of light stripes that extend along its upper flanks, providing a visual distinction.
Is the Mabuya mabouya still considered common?
Due to its restricted distribution to Martinique following a 2005 taxonomic revision, the Mabuya mabouya is now feared to be possibly extinct. Its limited range raises serious concerns about its long-term survival.