Pseudopus
Pseudopus·Anguidae
Pseudopus is a genus of anguid lizards known for being among the most robust members of their subfamily. The sole living species, the sheltopusik, is native to Eurasia and is notable for its legless appearance. Fossil species indicate the genus has a long evolutionary history, with some of the largest extinct members reaching impressive lengths.
Key Facts
- ›Genus Pseudopus includes one living species and four fossil species.
- ›The living species is commonly known as the sheltopusik, Pallas's glass lizard, or European legless lizard.
- ›Fossils of Pseudopus date back to the Early Miocene, with possible Oligocene records.
- ›Extinct species like †P. pannonicus could reach lengths of up to 2 meters.
- ›They are considered the most robust members of the subfamily Anguinae.
Sheltopusik, Pallas's Glass Lizard, European Legless Lizard, European Glass Lizard
Eurasia
- Legless Lizards
- Robust Build
- Largest Species Grew Up To 2 Meters In Length.
About Pseudopus
The genus Pseudopus encompasses a group of anguid lizards notable for their robust build and their legless morphology, with one living species and several extinct fossil forms.
Classification and Evolution
Pseudopus belongs to the subfamily Anguinae and represents some of its most substantial members. The evolutionary history of this genus stretches back to at least the Early Miocene epoch, with potential evidence suggesting an even earlier presence in the Oligocene. Four fossil species have been identified, including \u2020P. pannonicus, which is recognized as the largest among them, reaching impressive lengths of up to two meters.
Living Species
The sole extant species, Pseudopus apodus, is widely known by several common names, including the sheltopusik, Pallas's glass lizard, European legless lizard, and European glass lizard. This species is native to a broad range across Eurasia, inhabiting diverse environments within the continent.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different species within the genus Pseudopus?
The genus Pseudopus currently includes one living species, Pseudopus apodus, commonly known as the sheltopusik. Additionally, there are four recognized fossil species: †Pseudopus ahnikoviensis, †Pseudopus laurillardi, †Pseudopus pannonicus, and †Pseudopus rugosus.
How old are the oldest Pseudopus fossils?
The oldest known fossils attributed to the genus Pseudopus date back to the Early Miocene epoch. There are also potential records that may extend further back into the Oligocene epoch.
What is the largest known Pseudopus species?
Among the extinct members of the genus, †Pseudopus pannonicus holds the record for size, with individuals estimated to have grown up to 2 meters in length. This makes it one of the most robust members of the subfamily Anguinae.
Where is the living Pseudopus species found?
The single extant species within the genus Pseudopus, the sheltopusik, is native to Eurasia. This broad geographic range encompasses various regions across the continent.