Abstract

HERNANDEZ-RUZ, EMIL JOSÉ. Gymnophthalmus speciosus (Hallowell 1861) (Squamata, Gymnophthalmidae) in Colombia . Caldasia [online]. 2006, vol.28, n.1, pp.79-88. ISSN 0366-5232.

Updated information on the lizard G. speciosus is presented for Colombia . A revised description and a diagnosis are provided, together with information on its ecology and geographic distribution in Colombia . Morphological features of the species are illustrated, and tables showing the variation of morphometric and meristic characters between males and females are also included. Variation in color of the tail is considered to be ontogenetic; the number of mid-body scales varies between 13 and 15 in both males and females. No apparent differences in color or scale number between G. speciosus and the Brazilian G. vanzoi (from Rondônia) and G. leucomystax (from Roraima) have been recognized, nor are there any differences in color with males of G. underwoodii (from northeastern South America). It is concluded that additional studies are needed in order to elucidate the taxonomy of this group of closely related cryptic species.

Keywords : Gymnophthalmus speciosus; Colombian lizards; Squamata.

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