Asian gracile skink

WHY IN NEWS?

• A new species of an Asian gracile skink has been discovered recently at Anaikatti hills, Coimbatore.

About:

• The New Species of Asian Gracile Skink has been named Subdoluseps nilgiriensis after Nilgiris. The species is closely related to Subdoluseps pruthi found in parts of the Eastern Ghats.
• Features: The species has a slender body of just about 7 cm. It is sandy brown in colour. The unnoticeable limbs of skinks make them resemble snakes.
• Protection Status: Subdoluseps nilgiriensis is currently considered a vulnerable species.
• Significance: This species is only the third skink species discovered from mainland India in the last millennium.

Threats:

• Seasonal forest fires
• Housing constructions and brick kiln industries in the area.

Rapid urbanisation has also increased the road networks in the area