Asian Gracile Skink-Sanskriti IAS

A team of herpetologists has discovered a new species of 'Asian gracile skink' in Western Ghats, it belongs to the family Scincidae. This new species is closely related to 'Subdoluseps pruthi' found in the parts of Eastern Ghats.
The new species was found in a dry deciduous area, showing that even the dry zones of our country are home to unrealized skink diversity. The species named 'Sundoluseps nilgiriensis'.
Most skinks are diurnal and usually secretive. Being elusive, not much is known about their natural and evolutionary history. This species is only the third skink species discovered from mainland India in the last millennium.
Skinks are non-venomous. They are resemble snakes because of the often-inconspicuous limbs and the way they move on land. Such resemblance has led to confusion often resulting in humans killing this harmless creature.
The breeding and feeding habits of Sundoluseps nilgiriensis' are yet to study. Currently it is considered a vulnerable species as there are potential threats from seasonal forest fires, housing construction and brick kiln industries in the area.

Asian Gracile Skink