In "A New Subspecies of Lizard, Cnemidophorus sacki, from Michoacán, México", William E. Duellman describes a new subspecies of whiptail lizard found in the Mexican state of Michoacán. Here's a breakdown of the key points:
- Focus: The study identifies and characterizes a new subspecies within the lizard species Cnemidophorus sacki.
- Location: The research focuses on specimens collected in Michoacán, Mexico.
- Subspecies Designation: Duellman proposes a new subspecies classification based on the lizards' unique characteristics. The name of the subspecies is likely included in the title, potentially Cnemidophorus sacki zweifeli.
- Distinguishing Features: The paper details the specific physical traits that differentiate this new subspecies from other Cnemidophorus sacki populations. These might involve:
- Coloration patterns (dorsal and ventral markings, presence or absence of stripes or spots)
- Body size and proportions (length, head size, limb length)
- Scale characteristics (size, shape, smoothness)
- Comparison: Duellman likely compares the newly identified subspecies to other known Cnemidophorus sacki subspecies and potentially related Cnemidophorus species to highlight its distinctiveness.
- Potential Significance: Discovering a new subspecies contributes to our understanding of lizard diversity and evolution within the Cnemidophorus genus. It might also provide insights into the ecological adaptations of this specific lizard population in Michoacán.
This work by Duellman expands our knowledge of the lizard fauna of Mexico and contributes to the ongoing classification of whiptail lizards.
.jpeg)