[Herpetology • 2020] Eutropis caraga, E. lapulapu, E. sibalom, etc. • Taxonomic Revision of Philippine Sun Skinks (Squamata: Scincidae: Eutropis), and Descriptions of Eight New Species

(A-B) Eutropis caraga, 
(C) E. borealis, (D) E. palauensis and 
(E–F) E. islamaliit  

Barley, Diesmos, Siler, Martinez & Brown, 2020

 DOI: 10.1655/HERPMONOGRAPHS-D-19-00009.1

Photos by Rafe M. Brown except (D) by Thibaud Aronson.

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Abstract 

Species descriptions of reptiles historically have relied exclusively on the use of morphological data; however, these external, phenotypic data do not always co-vary with lineage divergence. Consequently, it has become increasingly clear that species diversity has been underestimated in many evolutionary radiations. With the use of an integrative approach, we examined the genetic and morphological diversity present in a nearly endemic Philippine radiation of Eutropis. Results demonstrated that current taxonomy does not reflect evolutionary history and that in many cases, morphological divergence has become decoupled from genetic divergence. As a consequence, species diversity is significantly underestimated. Here, we rectify the major taxonomic problems present in Philippine Eutropis by providing formal descriptions for eight new species. Three of the four new species in the E. multicarinata species complex are sympatric with (and have long been confused with) previously described subspecies (which we also elevate to full species here). The fourth species is endemic to the Caroline Islands, clearly derived from a long-distance dispersal event from the Philippines. The new species in the E. indeprensa species complex are allopatrically or parapatrically distributed across the archipelago. In contrast to the last review of Philippine Eutropis, which suggested the endemic radiation was composed of five species (one of which was composed of two subspecies), we demonstrate that this group includes at least 14 distinct evolutionary lineages, with potential for additional diversity to be discovered pending further study.

KEYWORDS: Cryptic species diversity, Eutropis borealis comb. nov., Eutropis caraga sp. nov., Eutropis cuprea sp. nov., Eutropis gubataas sp. nov., Eutropis islamaliit sp. nov., Eutropis lapulapu sp. nov., Eutropis multicarinata comb. nov., Eutropis palauensis sp. nov., Eutropis sahulinghangganan sp. nov., Eutropis sibalom sp. nov., Island archipelagos, lizard, Mabuya, morphology, Southeast Asia

Photos of species in the Eutropis multicarinata complex:
E. caraga from (A) Mount Lumot and (B) the Zamboanga Peninsula, Mindanao Island,
(C) E. borealis from the Visayan Islands (Siquijor Island), (D) E. palauensis (Ngarchelong, Palau),
and E. islamaliit from Lubang Island (E–F, KU 304013, an adult female, SVL = 79 mm).

Photos by Rafe M. Brown except (D) by Thibaud Aronson.

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Eutropis borealis comb. nov., 

Eutropis caraga sp. nov., 

Eutropis cuprea sp. nov., 

Eutropis gubataas sp. nov., 

Eutropis islamaliit sp. nov., 

Eutropis lapulapu sp. nov., 

Eutropis multicarinata comb. nov., 

Eutropis palauensis sp. nov., 

Eutropis sahulinghangganan sp. nov., 

Eutropis sibalom sp. nov.

Anthony J. Barley, Arvin C. Diesmos, Cameron D. Siler, Christopher M. Martinez and Rafe M. Brown. 2020. Taxonomic Revision of Philippine Sun Skinks (Reptilia: Squamata: Scincidae: Eutropis), and Descriptions of Eight New Species. Herpetological Monographs. 34(1); 39-70. DOI: 10.1655/HERPMONOGRAPHS-D-19-00009.1

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[Herpetology • 2021] Eutropis alcalai • A New Species of Sun Skink (Scincidae: Eutropis) from the Zamboanga Peninsula, southwestern Mindanao Island, Philippines

Eutropis alcalai  

Barley, Sanguila & Brown, 2021

Alcala’s Rough-scaled Sun Skink ||  facebook.com/PhilippineSystematists 

Abstract 

We describe a new species of lizard in the genus Eutropis Fitzinger 1843 from the southwestern tip of the Zamboanga Peninsula on the western part of Mindanao Island, Philippines. The new species is related to Eutropis rugifera, which is a secretive, forest-adapted skink that ranges widely outside the Philippines from the western extent of its distribution on Nicobar Island (the type locality) through southern Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra and the Mentawai islands, Borneo, Java, and as far east as Bali Island. The discovery of a new, morphologically distinct, and genetically highly divergent Sun Skink lineage in the low elevation forests of Zamboanga Peninsula creates a puzzling disjunct geographic distribution (E. rugifera has not been reported from the Sulu Archipelago). The new species is estimated to have diverged ~10–16 mya from E. rugifera, from which it appears to have an extralimital and isolated distribution. Considering the dynamic geological history and ancient continental origin of the Zamboanga Peninsula, colonization by the new species may have been facilitated by pre-Pleistocene overseas long-distance dispersal, saltatory range expansion and subsequent contraction/extinction in the Sulu Archipelago, and/or possibly paleotransport on the ancient crustal fragment of Zamboanga. The new species is known only from Zamboanga City’s primary surface water supply catchment at the lowest elevations inside the boundaries of Pasonanca Natural Park, despite the fact that there have been historical surveys of herpetological diversity at multiple sites to the northeast (Zamboanga, western Mindanao) and to the southwest (Sulu Archipelago). The new species, thus, may be limited to just the tip of the Zamboanga Peninsula, possibly rendering Pasonanca’s low elevation forests its most critical habitat resource for long term persistence and survival of the species. 

Keywords: IUCN Red List, Palawan microcontinent block, Pasonanca Natural Park, Sulu Archipelago, Surface catchment watershed biodiversity

Eutropis alcalai sp. nov. (holotype PNM 9878; formerly KU 315013; adult male, SVL 70.1 mm), photographed in life:
(a) close-up of anterior body region; (b) full body;
collected from Pasonanca Natural Park, Barangay Pasonanca, on the outskirts of Zamboanga City, Zamboanga Peninsula, western Mindanao Island.

Photos: Rafe M. Brown.

 

Eutropis alcalai sp. nov. 

Diagnosis.— Eutropis alcalai sp. nov. can be distinguished from its closest relative, E. rugifera, by its smoother head scales, with light embossing only, and keels limited to posterior margins of parietals, temporals and nuchals (vs. rugose to strongly keeled in E. rugifera), by absence (vs. presence) of contact between the postmental and second infralabial, by the presence of 29–32 (vs. 21–26) subdigital lamellae under the 4th toe, by the presence of seven infralabials (six in E. rugifera), the presence of differentiation in the precloacal scales series (two, medial precloacals enlarged, transversely expanded and bordered on either side by two undifferentiated scales) in E. alcalai sp. nov. (vs. six equal sized scales in E. rugifera), by equivalent length of 3rd and 4th fingers (vs. 4th finger longer than 3rd), and by its white chin and infralabial scales (vs. yellow to orange in E. rugifera).

Distribution.— This species is only known from Pasonanca Natural Park near Zamboanga City at the southwestern tip of the Zamboanga Peninsula. A closely related species (E. rugifera) occurs on Borneo (among other islands of the Sunda Region), and although neither species has been collected from the Sulu Archipelago, one of them may occur on its larger islands.

Etymology.— We take great pleasure in naming this distinctive new species for our colleague Angel C. Alcala, in recognition of his numerous foundational contributions to the natural history, systematics, ecology, and conservation of Philippine lizards of the family Scincidae (Alcala and Brown 1966, 1967; Alcala 1970; Brown and Alcala 1956, 1961, 1963a,b, 1980, 1986). Suggested common name: “Alcala’s Quinque-carinate (Five-keeled) Sun Skink,” or “Alcala’s Rough-scaled Sun Skink.”

Anthony J. Barley, Marites B. Sanguila and Rafe M. Brown. 2021. A New Species of Sun Skink (Reptilia: Scincidae: Eutropis) from the Zamboanga Peninsula, southwestern Mindanao Island, Philippines. Philippine Journal of Systematic Biology. DOI: 10.26757/pjsb2020b14012

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[Herpetology • 2020] Pseudogekko hungkag • Unexpected Discovery of Another New Species of Philippine False Gecko (Gekkonidae; Pseudogekko) from the Bicol Peninsula of Luzon Island

Pseudogekko hungkag

 Brown, Meneses, Wood, Fernandez, Cuesta, Clores, Tracy, Buehler & Siler, 2020

Bicol Hollow-dwelling Forest Gecko || DOI: 10.1655/Herpetologica-D-19-00029.1  

PerryLeeWoodJr.com

Abstract

Philippine False Geckos (genus Pseudogekko) are secretive, delicate, slender-bodied, arboreal members of an obligate forest specialist clade that is substantially more species diverse than previously assumed. Over the last century, few species were added to this Philippine endemic genus. During the last decade, however, revisionary studies have resulted in the recognition of six new species. Several of these appear to be rare, have restricted geographic ranges, or exhibit patchy, fragmented areas of occurrence. In this study we report on the discovery of a second Luzon Island species in the P. brevipes complex, a clade in which members typically have diminutive bodies. Although the new species is readily diagnosed from all congeners, we estimated its systematic affinities with a phylogenetic analysis of DNA sequence data and confirm that it is nested within the P. brevipes clade. The new species constitutes an exception to the general appearance of other members of the P. brevipes complex, in that it has a relatively heavy-bodied, robust stature, separating it phenotypically from all members of the group. Our new species constitutes the second Luzon lineage in this group of rainforest species (considered previously to be restricted to the Negros-Panay and Mindanao Pleistocene aggregate island complexes [PAICs] in the central and southern landmasses of the archipelago). Given the lack of available biodiversity information for the major remaining forests of the Bicol Peninsula, which necessarily come from targeted faunal surveys, the new species' conservation status cannot yet be assessed. In light of the highly fragmented nature of forested habitats of southern Luzon, we suspect the new species might be vulnerable to extinction as a result of habitat loss.

Pseudogekko hungkag sp. nov. 

Rafe M. Brown, Camila G. Meneses, Perry L. Wood Jr., Jason B. Fernandez, Michael A. Cuesta, Michael A. Clores, Claire Tracy, Matthew D. Buehler and Cameron D. Siler. 2020. Unexpected Discovery of Another New Species of Philippine False Gecko (Gekkonidae; Pseudogekko) from the Bicol Peninsula of Luzon Island. Herpetologica. 76(3); 315-329. DOI: 10.1655/Herpetologica-D-19-00029.1   

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[Herpetology • 2019] Gloydius huangi • A New Species of Plateau Pit Viper (Serpentes: Viperidae: Gloydius) from the Upper Lancang (=Mekong) Valley in the Hengduan Mountain Region, Tibet, China

Gloydius huangi 

Wang, Ren, Dong, Jiang, Shi, Siler & Che, 2019

Lancang Plateau Viper || DOI: 10.1670/18-126  

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Abstract

The Plateau Pit Viper, Gloydius strauchi, from southwest and central China has long been considered a single, widespread species despite suspicion that it represents a potential complex of distinct evolutionary lineages. Although series of works were published on the G. strauchi species complex over the last 10 yr, species boundaries and diagnostic features of different members of the complex have remained poorly understood. Combining both morphological and genetic data, we re-evaluate taxonomic statuses of populations of G. strauchi in southwest China and describe the eastern Tibetan populations as a new species. The new species is most closely related to G. monticola phylogenetically, and it differs from all congeners by having a matte dorsal body scale texture, oval and robust head shape, distinct body ornamentation and coloration, and unique hemipene morphology. In addition, we provide the first updated diagnostic key to all recognized members of the G. strauchi species complex, and discuss ongoing taxonomic problems associated with cryptic diversity within the genus in China.

Holotype of  Gloydius huangi sp. nov. in life (adult female, KIZ 027654)

 Gloydius huangi sp. nov.  

Gloydius strauchi Hu et al., 1987: 143. Zhao et al., 1999: 413–419. 

Zhao, 2006: 127–129. Li et al., 2010: 153–155

Etymology.— The specific name is derived from the surname of Chinese herpetologist Dr. Song Huang from Huangshan University, who has made continuous contributions to research on Chinese snakes in Tibet and the HMR. We suggest ... (Pinyin: Lan Cang Fu) as the Chinese common name of the new species, and Lancang Plateau Viper as its English common name, in the hope of promoting habitat conservation of the Lancang River Basin where the species is native.

Kai Wang, Jinlong Ren, Wenjie Dong, Ke Jiang, Jingsong Shi, Cameron D. Siler and Jing Che. 2019. A New Species of Plateau Pit Viper (Reptilia: Serpentes: Gloydius) from the Upper Lancang (=Mekong) Valley in the Hengduan Mountain Region, Tibet, China. J. of Herpetology.  53(3); 224-236. DOI:  10.1670/18-126 

Researchgate.net/publication/335806917_A_New_Species_of_Gloydius_from_the_Hengduan_Mountain_Region_Tibet_China

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[Herpetology • 2016] Archipelago-wide Survey of Philippine Forest Dragons (Agamidae: Gonocephalus): Multilocus Phylogeny uncovers Unprecedented Levels of Genetic Diversity in A Biodiversity Hotspot

Abstract

We utilize robust geographical genetic sampling, and phylogenetic analysis of a new multilocus dataset to provide the first inference of relationships among Philippine Gonocephalus, combined with estimates of putative species diversity, in this almost unknown island radiation. Our results reveal startling levels of undocumented diversity, genetically partitioned at a number of geographical levels across the archipelago. We present the first survey of genetic lineage diversity, coupled with an archipelago-wide clarification of geographical structure in a unique archipelago-endemic radiation. Philippine Gonocephalus have previously escaped the attention of biogeographers as a result of the taxonomic confusion associated with low numbers of preserved specimens in museum collections. With new vouchered material and genetic sampling from a comprehensive, archipelago-wide vertebrate biodiversity inventory, our findings join many recent studies in highlighting the unprecedented faunal diversity in one of the world's most unique biodiversity conservation hotspots.

Keywords: biogeography; diversification; Islands; lizard; reptile

Luke J. Welton, Cameron D. Siler, L. L. Grismer, Arvin C. Diesmos, Jack W. Sites and Rafe M. Brown. 2016. Archipelago-wide Survey of Philippine Forest Dragons (Agamidae: Gonocephalus): Multilocus Phylogeny uncovers Unprecedented Levels of Genetic Diversity in A Biodiversity Hotspot.
Biological Journal of the Linnean Society. DOI: 10.1111/bij.12878 

[Herpetology • 2016] Brachymeles dalawangdaliri • Additions to Philippine Slender Skinks of the Brachymeles bonitae Complex (Squamata: Scincidae) III: A New Species from Tablas Island

Tablas Slender Skink |  Brachymeles dalawangdaliri  

 Davis, Geheber, Watters, Penrod, Feller, Ashford, Kouri, Nguyen, Shauberger, Sheatsley, Winfrey, Wong, Sanguila, Brown & Siler, 2016.  

 DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4132.1.3  

Abstract

Studies of the diversity of Philippine amphibians and reptiles have resulted in the continued description of cryptic species. Species formerly thought to range across multiple recognized faunal regions are now considered to be assemblages of multiple unique species, each restricted to a single faunal region. This pattern continues to hold true when considering Philippine skinks of the genus Brachymeles. Recent studies have resulted in the description of numerous unique species with many exhibiting various degrees of digit loss or limb reduction, as well as suggesting that unique lineages are still present in the B. bonitae Complex. In this paper, we describe a new species of fossorial skink within this species complex from Tablas Island based on collections made nearly 50 years ago. Although no genetic data are available for the new species, examinations of morphological data (qualitative traits, meristic counts, and mensural measurements) support its distinction from all other members of the genus. Brachymeles dalawangdaliri sp. nov. is differentiated from other members of the genus based on a suite of unique phenotypic characteristics, including a small body size (SVL 66.0–80.9 mm), bidactyl fore-limbs, digitless, unidactyl, or bidactyl hind limbs, a high number of presacral vertebrae (49), the absence of auricular openings, and distinct dorsal head scale patterns. The description of the new species increases the diversity of endemic vertebrates recognized to occur in the Romblon Island Group in the central Philippines.

Keywords: Reptilia, biodiversity, endemism, faunal region, fossoriality, limb reduction, non-pentadactyl, pentadactyl, Romblon Island Group

Taxonomic account

Brachymeles dalawangdaliri sp. nov.

Brachymeles bonitae Duméril & Bibron 1839; Taylor 1917; Brown 1956:5; Brown & Rabor 1967:526; Brown & Alcala 1970; Brown & Alcala 1980:20; Davis et al. 2014; Geheber et al. 2016; Siler et al. 2016. 

Diagnosis. Following recent taxonomic revisions of Brachymeles (Siler et al. 2011; Davis et al. 2014) the new species is assigned to the B. bonitae Complex based on the following suite of morphological characters: (1) limbs present, (2) non-pentadactyl, (3) fore-limbs with 0–3 fingers. (4) hind limbs with 0–2 toes, (5) paravertebral scale rows ≥ 91, (6) presacral vertebrae 47–53, (7) supraoculars four, (8) enlarged, differentiated nuchals present, (9) longitudinal rows of dark spots around the body absent, and (10) auricular opening absent.

Brachymeles dalawangdaliri sp. nov. can be distinguished from congeners by the following combination of characters: (1) body size small (SVL 66.0–80.9 mm), (2) fore-limbs bidactyl, (3) hind limbs digitless, unidactyl, or bidactyl, (4) limb length short, (5) supralabials six or seven, (6) infralabials six or seven, (7) supraciliaries five, (8) supraoculars four, (9) midbody scale rows 24 or 25, (10) axilla–groin scale rows 80–83, (11) paravertebral scale rows 97–101, (12) prefrontal contact absent, (13) frontoparietal contact present or absent, (14) enlarged chin shields in two pairs, (15) nuchals enlarged, (16) auricular opening absent, (17) presacral vertebrae 49, and (18) uniform body color (Tables 1, 2).

Etymology. The name of the new species presented in this paper is derived from the Tagalog (Filipino) terms ‘dalawa,’ meaning two, and ‘daliri,’ meaning finger, referencing one of the defining characteristics of the new species, the two digits on the fore-limbs. Suggested common name: Tablas Slender Skink.

Distribution. Brachymeles dalawangdaliri sp. nov. is known only from Tablas Island, Romblon Island Group, Philippines (Fig. 1).

 Drew R. Davis, Aaron D. Geheber, Jessa L. Watters, Michelle L. Penrod, Kathryn D. Feller, Alissa Ashford, Josh Kouri, Daniel Nguyen, Kathryn Shauberger, Kyra Sheatsley, Claire Winfrey, Rachel Wong, Marites B. Sanguila, Rafe M. Brown and Cameron D. Siler. 2016.
 Additions to Philippine Slender Skinks of the Brachymeles bonitae Complex (Reptilia: Squamata: Scincidae) III: A New Species from Tablas Island.
Zootaxa. 4132(1); 30-43.  DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4132.1.3

[Herpetology • 2016] Brachymeles ilocandia • Additions to Philippine Slender Skinks of the Brachymeles bonitae Complex (Squamata: Scincidae) II: A New Species from the northern Philippines

Ilokano Slender Skink |  Brachymeles ilocandia 

Siler, Davis, Freitas, Huron, Geheber, Watters, Penrod, Papeș, Amrein, Anwar, Cooper, Hein, Manning, Patel, Pinaroc, Diesmos, Diesmos, Oliveros & Brown. 2016.    DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4132.1.2 

Abstract

We describe a new digitless scincid lizard of the genus Brachymeles from northern Luzon and Camiguin Norte islands in the Philippines. This species belongs to the Brachymeles bonitae Complex, and both molecular and morphological data confirm that this species is distinct from all other congeners. Formerly considered to be a single widespread species, this group of species has been the focus of recent systematic reviews. Here we describe a new species in the B. bonitae Complex, recognized currently to constitute five species. Brachymeles ilocandia sp. nov. is the second digitless and the seventeenth non-pentadactyl species in genus. The description of this species brings the total number of species in the genus to 40, and provides new insight into unique distribution patterns of species of the northern Philippines.

Keywords: Reptilia, Babuyan Island Group, biodiversity, ecological niche modeling, endemism, faunal region, fossorial, Luzon Island, non-pentadactyl, pentadactyl

Brachymeles ilocandia sp. nov.

Brachymeles bonitae Duméril & Bibron 1839; Taylor 1917; Brown 1956:5; Brown & Rabor 1967:526; Brown & Alcala 1970; Brown & Alcala 1980:20; Davis et al. 2014; Geheber et al. 2016.

Diagnosis. Following recent taxonomic revisions of Brachymeles (Siler et al. 2011; Davis et al. 2014; Geheber et al. 2016) the new species is assigned to the B. bonitae Complex based on the following suite of morphological characters: (1) limbs present, (2) non-pentadactyl, (3) fore-limbs with 0–3 fingers, (4) hind limbs with 0–2 toes, (5) paravertebral scale rows ≥ 91, (6) presacral vertebrae 47–53, (7) supraoculars four, (8) enlarged, differentiated nuchals present, (9) longitudinal rows of dark spots around the body absent, and (10) auricular opening absent.

Brachymeles ilocandia sp. nov. can be distinguished from congeners by the following combination of characters: (1) body size small (SVL 65.7–77.6 mm), (2) limbs digitless, (3) limb length short, (4) supralabials six, (5) infralabials five or six, (6) supraciliaries five, (7) supraoculars four, (8) midbody scale rows 22–24, (9) axilla–groin scale rows 80–82, (10) paravertebral scale rows 97–100, (11) mental/first infralabial fusion present or absent, (12) prefrontal contact absent or in point contact, (13) frontoparietal contact present, (14) enlarged chin shields in three pairs, (15) nuchals enlarged, (16) auricular opening absent, (17) presacral vertebrae 50–53, and (18) uniform body color (Tables 1, 2).

Distribution, ecology and natural history. Brachymeles ilocandia sp. nov. is known only from northern Luzon and Camiguin Norte islands (Fig. 1A). The new species likely once occurred in low- to mid-elevation primary forest habitats; however, all recent observations of this species have occurred in secondary growth forest habitats. In contrast to the other members of the B. bonitae Complex, this species appears to be quite common in secondary growth forest fragments throughout the northern Philippines.  Brachymeles ilocandia sp. nov. is found in parts of its distribution with B. bicolor, B. kadwa, and B. boulengeri. Other species of Brachymeles known to occur in the Luzon PAIC include B. bicolandia, B. bonitae, B. brevidactylus, B. cobos, B. elerae, B. isangdaliri, B. kadwa, B. lukbani, B. makusog, B. minimus, B. muntingkamay, and B. wrighti (Davis et al. 2014). 

We have evaluated this species against the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) criteria for classification and find that it does not qualify for Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable, or Near Threatened status. Not only does B. ilocandia sp. nov. occur on more than one island, but also the species appears common in secondary growth and disturbed habitats throughout its recognized distribution. Therefore, we recommend that this species be classified as Least Concern, LC (IUCN 2015).

Etymology. The specific epithet is chosen in reference to the biogeographically and culturally distinct homeland, “Ilocandia”, of the Ilokano people of the northern Philippines, the third largest ethnolinguistic group in the country. Including the Babuyan Island Group north of Luzon Island, Ilocandia stretches from the western coast of northern Luzon, across the Cagayan Valley, to parts of central Luzon and the boundaries of Aurora Province in the east. The region is home to many endemic vertebrates, diverse geographic landscape, unique local cuisine, and rich cultural traditions. Suggested common name: Ilokano Slender Skink.

Cameron D. Siler, Drew R. Davis, Elyse S. Freitas, Nicholas A. Huron, Aaron D. Geheber, Jessa L. Watters, Michelle L. Penrod, Monica Papeș, Andrew Amrein, Alyssa Anwar, Dontae Cooper, Tucker Hein, Annalisa Manning, Neeral Patel, Lauren Pinaroc, Arvin C. Diesmos, Mae L. Diesmos, Carl H. Oliveros, and Rafe M. Brown. 2016.
Additions to Philippine Slender Skinks of the Brachymeles bonitae Complex (Reptilia: Squamata: Scincidae) II: A New Species from the northern Philippines.
Zootaxa. 4132(1); DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4132.1.2

[Herpetology • 2016] Brachymeles ligtas • Additions to Philippine Slender Skinks of the Brachymeles bonitae Complex (Squamata: Scincidae) I: A New Species from Lubang Island

Lubang Slender Skink |  Brachymeles ligtas

  Geheber, Davis, Watters,  Penrod, Feller, Davey, Ellsworth, Flanagan, Heitz, Moore, Nguyen, Roberts, Sutton, Sanguila, Linkem, Brown & Siler, 2016

DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4132.1.1 

Abstract

A new species of slender skink is described from the Philippines. The species is endemic to Lubang Island, and is assigned to the Brachymeles bonitae Complex based on phenotypic and genetic data. Specimens were collected from Lubang Island between 1991 and 2012, and were examined based on morphological data (qualitative traits, meristic counts, and mensural measurements). Published genetic sequence data from phylogenetic studies of the genus reveal the new species to be highly divergent from congeners. Brachymeles ligtas sp. nov. is differentiated from other members of the genus based on a number of distinct morphological features, including small body size (SVL 60.7–79.6 mm), bidactyl fore-limbs, digitless hind limbs, high number of presacral vertebrae (50), and the absence of auricular openings. Additionally, the new species has diagnostic, distinct dorsal head scale patterns. This new species becomes the only member of the genus known to occur on the deep-ocean island of Lubang.

Keywords: Reptilia, biodiversity, endemism, fossorial, limb reduction, non-pentadactyl, pentadactyl, Philippines

FIGURE 3. Photograph of holotype in life of Brachymeles ligtas sp. nov. (PNM 9818). Note: Individual is about to shead, resulting in lighter scale coloration.

Photograph taken by Cameron D. Siler 

DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4132.1.1

Etymology. The specific epithet is derived from the Tagalog (Filipino) term "nakaligtas," meaning "survivor" and "ligtas," meaning "salvation." We name this species in honor of the people of Lubang Island who endured nearly three decades of violence and guerrilla warfare, from 1945 to 1974, led by the Imperial Japanese Army intelligence officer Hiroo Onoda, and four Japanese soldiers. After being driven into the jungle of Lubang Island by allied forces near the end of World War II, Onoda resisted surrender for 29 years believing the war was not yet over. Onoda would finally surrender in 1974, allowing the communities of Lubang to move on from the hardships faced during this time period, including the loss of over 30 lives and injuries to dozens more. Suggested common name: Lubang Slender Skink.

Distribution. Brachymeles ligtas sp. nov. is currently known only from Lubang Island (Fig. 1) and we expect it is found on several smaller nearby landmasses.

Natural history. Brachymeles ligtas sp. nov. likely once occurred in low- to mid-elevation primary forest habitats. As most primary forest on Lubang Island has been destroyed, the recent observations of this species have occurred in secondary growth forest habitats. In contrast to the other members of the B. bonitae Complex, this species appears to be relatively common in secondary growth forest fragments on the island. To date, no other congeners have been documented on Lubang Island. 

We have evaluated this species against the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) criteria for classification and find that it does not qualify for Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable, or Near Threatened status. Although B. ligtas sp. nov. is known from a single island only, the species appears relatively common in secondary growth forest on Lubang, and until additional data are presented to support otherwise, we classify this species as Least Concern (LC; IUCN 2015).

 Aaron D. Geheber, Drew R. Davis, Jessa L. Watters,  Michelle L. Penrod, Kathryn D. Feller, Conner S. Davey, Elyse D. Ellsworth, Rachel L. Flanagan, Brendan B Heitz, Tana Moore, Marie D.C. Nguyen, Austyn Roberts, John Sutton, Marites B. Sanguila, Charles W. Linkem, Rafe M. Brown and Cameron D. Siler. 2016. Additions to Philippine Slender Skinks of the Brachymeles bonitae Complex (Reptilia: Squamata: Scincidae) I: A New Species from Lubang Island. Zootaxa. 4132(1); 1-14. DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4132.1.1

[Herpetology • 2015] Japalura vela • A New Species of Japalura (Squamata: Agamidae) from upper Lancang (Mekong) Valley of Eastern Tibet, China

Japalura vela   Wang, Jiang & Che, 2015
Sail Moutain Lizard or Sail Japalura | 帆背攀蜥 (Fan Bei Pan Xi)

Figure 1: Dorsolateral close-ups, dorsolateral overviews, and ventral overviews of Japalura vela sp. nov.:
The male holotype KIZ013801 (A, B, and C) and the female paratype KIZ013802 (D, E, and F) in life.
Images not to scale. ||  Photos by Kai WANG.

Figure 7: The microhabitat (A) and macrohabitat (B) of Japalura vela sp. nov.
at the type locality, Quzika, Tibet.  || Photos by Duan YOU.

ABSTRACT

A new species of the agamid genus Japalura is described based on 15 specimens from the upper Lancang (Mekong) Valley of eastern Tibet, PR China. Populations of the new species, Japalura vela sp. nov., were previously recognized as J. flaviceps. The new species is morphologically most similar to J. batangensis, J. micangshanensis, J. variegata, and J. zhaoermii, but is distinguished from the four species and all remaining congeners by the following combination of morphological characters: 1) small adult size (SVL 56–69 mm in males, 59–66 mm in females); 2) ratio of tail TAL/SVL 1.85–2.06; 3) ratio of hind limb HLL/SVL 0.72–0.81; 4) T4S 24 or 25; 5) concealed tympanum; 6) transverse gular fold present; 7) gular pouch present; 8) axillary fold present; 9) a pronounced, continuous, sail-like vertebral crest along length of body in males; 10) ground dorsal coloration black in males; 11) distinct gray transverse streaks on dorsal surface of head; 12) black radiated streaks around eyes; 13) distinct, black vermiculate stripes on ventral surface of head in both sexes; 14) a strongly jagged dorsolateral stripe from neck to base of tail on each side of vertebral crest in males; and 15) absence of gular spots in both sexes. General distribution patterns of the genus in the Hengduan Mountains region are also discussed.

Keywords:  distribution, Hengduan Mountains, Japalura, J. flaviceps, species complex

Japalura vela sp. nov. Wang, Jiang, Che (Figures 1–6)

Synonymies: Japalura yunnanensis Vogt, 1924: 338 

Japalura flaviceps Hu et al., 1987: 112 

Japalura flaviceps Pope, 1935: 467 

Japalura flaviceps Zhao and Jiang, 1977: 293 –298 

Japalura flaviceps Zhao et al., 1999: 111–115 

Japalura flaviceps Li et al., 2010: 115 

Japalura sp. A Manthey et al., 2012

Distribution and Ecology:  The new species is currently known only from the type locality (Figures 7–8), but it may be found in valleys of adjacent reaches along Lancang Rivers. As a terrestrial species, individuals were observed commonly in rocky areas or steppe-shrub habitat along the arid river valley (Figure 7). Adult males usually basked on high rocks, while adult females and juveniles stayed lower in the rock piles, suggesting possible niche partitioning among different age-groups and between different sexes. Males are territorial, in which the territory holder will perform vertical head-nodding movements and display gular pouch toward the invader, and physical contacts (biting and chasing) will happen if the invader refuses to leave. No territorial behaviors were seen among females or juveniles. Possible predations may come from snakes (Chinese Beauty Snake, Orthriophis taeniurus, KIZ013803, was collected from the same locality) and large birds ( Corvus sp., also commonly observed at this locality).

Etymology:  The Latin word vela means “sail”, which describes the shape of the pronounced and continuous vertebral crest as the diagnostic morphology of the males of the new species. Hence according to the Latin name, we suggest Sail Moutain Lizards or Sail Japalura as its English common name, and Fan Bei Pan Xi (帆背攀蜥 ) as its Chinese common name.

 Kai Wang, Ke Jiang, Gang Pan, Mian Hou, Cameron D. Siler and Jing Che. 2015. A New Species of Japalura (Squamata: Sauria: Agamidae) from upper Lancang (Mekong) Valley of Eastern Tibet, China. ASIAN HERPETOLOGICAL RESEARCH. 6(3):159-168.

ResearchGate.net/publication/282158088_A_new_species_of_Japalura_(Squamata_Sauria_Agamidae)_from_upper_Lancang_(Mekong)_Valley_of_Eastern_Tibet_China

[Herpetology • 2014] Taxonomic Revision of the Pseudogekko compresicorpus complex (Reptilia: Squamata: Gekkonidae), with Descriptions of Three New Species

FIG. 8.— Photographs in life of (A) Pseudogekko compresicorpus (KU 326436) and the holotypes of (B) Pseudogekko pungkaypinit sp. nov. (Holotype, PNM 9810, formerly KU 326435), (C) Pseudogekko ditoy sp. nov. (Holotype, PNM 9811, formerly KU 326437), and (D) Pseudogekko chavacano sp. nov. (Holotype, PNM 9812, formerly KU 314963). Photographs by RMB. 

ABSTRACT 

Recent phylogenetic analysis of false geckos, genus Pseudogekko, revealed unrecognized diversity within these exceedingly rare and enigmatic Philippine forest geckos. Newly available genetic datasets revealed that two of the four currently recognized species are complexes of multiple, deeply divergent evolutionary lineages. In this paper we evaluate species diversity in the Pseudogekko compresicorpus Complex and describe three new species in this unique clade of endemic Philippine geckos. For nearly a century, P. compresicorpus has been recognized as a single, ''widespread'' species with a geographic range spanning three major faunal regions and several isolated islands. This perception of the species' wide geographic range has persisted due to the rarity of this species. We evaluate morphological data, in light of a recent phylogenetic study on the genus, to define species limits in P. compresicorpus, finding character-based evidence that unambiguously supports the recognition of four unique evolutionary lineages within the complex, three of which we describe as new species. These evolutionary species correspond to monophyletic lineages supported in recent molecular studies. We also address the historically controversial generic affiliation of Pseudogekko labialis and conclude that this poorly known species is a member of the genus Lepidodactylus. All species recognized in this study possess allopatric geographic ranges and differ from congeners by numerous diagnostic characters of external morphology and, therefore, should be recognized as full species in accordance with any lineage-based species concept. This study nearly doubles the known diversity of Philippine false geckos.

Keywords: Biodiversity, Conservation, Endemism, False geckos, Philippines, Species complex, Taxonomy

 Cameron D Siler, Luke J Welton, Drew R Davis, Jessa L Watters, Conner S Davey, Arvin C Diesmos, Mae L Diesmos and Rafe M Brown. 2014. Taxonomic Revision of the Pseudogekko compresicorpus complex (Reptilia: Squamata: Gekkonidae), with Descriptions of Three New Species. Herpetological Monographs. 28(1):110-139.
DOI: 10.1655/HERPMONOGRAPHS-D-14-00005
researchgate.net/publication/270274590_Taxonomic_revision_of_the_Pseudogekko_compresicorpus_complex_(Reptilia_Squamata_Gekkonidae)_with_descriptions_of_three_new_species