The mitotic chromosomes of nine species from five genera of the saurian family Scincidae are presented. Chromosome numbers and karyotypic morphology support the taxonomic subdivision of these lizards into the subfamilies Lygosominae (2n=30) and Scincinae (2n=32). A model for the chromosomal evolution of these species is postulated. Variability in chromosomal morphology is minimal though certain intergeneric and species differences were detected. Heteromorphic sex chromosomes were not observed.