Greek snake skink
species of reptile
The Greek snake skink (Ophiomorus punctatissimus) is a species of skink, a lizard in the family Scincidae.
Taxonomy
The species Ophiomorus kardesi was recently described for the Anatolian genetic lineage previously identified as Ophiomorus punctatissimus. Although no morphological differences have been identified, scientists have concluded that the genetic divergence and divergence time (around 10 million years) warranted recognising Ophiomorus kardesi as a distinct species.
These latter authors note that this work revealed several additional mitochondrial lineages within O. punctatissimus and that further study is needed to clarify the taxonomic status of these.
Geographic range
This species is endemic to Europe, where it occurs in Greece on the Peloponnese Peninsula and on the islands of Kythira and Elafonisos in the Aegean Sea, off the southern tip of the Peloponnese.
Habitat
Its natural habitats are temperate grassland and plantations.
References
Further reading
Arnold EN, Burton JA. 1978. A Field Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians of Britain and Europe. London: Collins. 272 pp.
The public source identifies “Greek snake skink” as species of reptile. This brief keeps that definition visible, then builds a research path around Greek, snake and skink.
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