Sphenomorphus dussumieri

Sphenomorphus dussumieri, commonly known as Dussumier's forest skink or Dussumier's litter skink, is a species of skink belonging to the family Scincidae. This lizard is endemic to the Western Ghats of southern India, specifically found within the Indian states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Ecology and Habitat

The Dussumier's forest skink is a diurnal species, meaning it is active during daylight hours. Its preferred habitats include a variety of forest types, ranging from dense evergreen forests and moist deciduous forests to plantation areas such as rubber plantations. It can be found in both closed forest canopies and more open woodland environments. The species typically inhabits altitudes between 15 and 500 meters (49 to 1,640 feet).

Physical Description

This skink possesses a slender body with a short snout and a head that is distinctly separate from its neck. Unlike many other skinks, its tympanum is located on the surface rather than being sunk. The dorsal scales are smooth and exhibit fine striations. Its limbs are relatively short. The coloration of Sphenomorphus dussumieri is a bronze brown on its dorsum, marked with dark spots. A characteristic feature is a light dorso-lateral stripe that extends from the eye along the side of the body, which has a dark brown, white-spotted streak on its inner edge. Additionally, a broad stripe runs along the sides, bordered by white below. The underside, or venter, is a creamy color.

Etymology

The specific name, 'dussumieri', was given in honor of Jean-Jacques Dussumier, a French voyager who was active in collecting zoological specimens in South Asia during the early 19th century. Locally, the species is known by the name "അരണ (arana)".