Lepidophyma chicoasense
SUMIDERO TROPICAL NIGHT LIZARD
Lepidophyma chicoasense - Alvarez & Valentin 1988
IDENTIFICATION:
DISTRIBUTION:
This species is known only from the type locality within the Sumidero Canyon of Chiapas, Mexico. Much of the former habitat of this species now lies beneath the waters of an extensive impoundment; it probably occurs elsewhere. Elevational distribution is around 600 m.
HABITAT:
Recorded only from rocky situations within the Tropical Deciduous Forest of Sumidero Canyon, Chiapas.
NATURAL HISTORY:
This species’ natural history is probably very similar to L. flavimaculatum. It is viviparous and feeds largely on arthropods. It is probably both diurnal and nocturnal, like all species in the Genus.
TAXONOMY:
This species is closely related to L. lipetzi.
TYPE:
Described as Lepidophyma chicoasensis by Alvarez, T. and N. Valentin (1988). Holotype: IPN 11132. Type locality: “16.3 Km norte, 1.6 Km este de Tuxtla Gutierrez, 600 m., Chiapas, Mexico.’’
PERSONAL NOTES:
I have no experience with this species, having never sought it in the field.
CONSERVATION STATUS:
I am not aware of the current official status of this species. It is known only to occur at a single locality, but certainly occurs more widely in the region. Deforestation and the creation of a massive reservoir have contributed to the loss of habitat of this lizard. Until populations are located elsewhere this species should be afforded some special protection.
REFERENCES:
Alvarez, T., and N. Valentin. 1988. Descripcion de una nueva especie de Lepidophyma (Reptilia: Xantusiidae) de Chiapas, Mexico. Anales de la Escuela Nacional de Ciencia Biologıa Mexico 32:123–130.