Aspects of the ecology, morphology, and taxonomy of two skinks (Reptilia: Lacertilia) in the coastal Manawatu area of New Zealand

Abstract

Two kinds of skink (Leiolopisma), sympatric in the coastal Manawatu, are considered on morphological and ecological grounds to be separate biological species, rather than morphs of a single species. One is conspecific with the holotype of Tiliqua zelandica Gray, 1843, and should be called Leiolopisma zelandicum (Gray) even though it appears to accord with McCann's (1955) concept of L. ornatum. The second species is McCann's “L. zelandica”, but this name cannot be applied, so the lizard is provisionally referred to as Leiolopisma sp. Common to both species is a basic pattern of longitudinal stripes and bands, and the colour is brown above and pale ventrally. However, subtle differences become apparent on close analysis, and certain metric and meristic characters differ between the 2 populations. Analysis of stomach contents reveals differences in both the composition and size of items taken. In the Manawatu the 2 species can be classed as neighbouringly sympatric, and their respective habitats are broadly distinct, that of L. zelandicum being more shady and moist. Both skinks may be infested with dermal mites and gastric nematodes, and in both the breeding cycle of the female is essentially similar.