More than a century after its discovery by Ernest Garbe, and almost 80 years after its original d... more More than a century after its discovery by Ernest Garbe, and almost 80 years after its original description, we obtained a
series of specimens of the earless gymnophthalmid Anotosaura collaris, the type species of the genus, up to now known
only by a single specimen. On the basis of the material obtained at and close to the type locality we redescribe the species,
adding information about the external and hemipenial morphology, osteology and karytoype. Molecular data confirm its
sister relationship with Anotosaura vanzolinia as well as the close relationship of Anotosaura with the Ecpleopodini Colobosauroides
and Dryadosaura. We supplement this information with thermophysiological, ecogeographical, karyotypic
and ecological data.
—Based on morphological and molecular evidence, herein is reported the discovery of a new species... more —Based on morphological and molecular evidence, herein is reported the discovery of a new species of Pholidobolus from the Andes of northwestern Peru. The new species is known from the montane forests of Cajamarca and Lambayeque departments, at elevations of 1,800– 2,300 m. It differs from other species of Pholidobolus in lacking prefrontal scales and having both strongly keeled dorsal scales and a diagonal white bar in the rictal region. Additionally, it is shown that records of P. vertebralis from Peru are based on misidentified specimens. The southernmost distribution records of P. vertebralis are from northwestern Ecuador. Also, an updated identification key for species of Pholidobolus is provided.
Description and phylogenetic relationships of a new genus and two new species of lizards from Bra... more Description and phylogenetic relationships of a new genus and two new species of lizards from Brazilian Amazonia, with nomenclatural comments on the taxonomy of Gymnophthalmidae (Reptilia: Squamata) Abstract We describe a new genus and two new species of gymnophthalmid lizards based on specimens collected from Brazilian Amazonia, mostly in the "arc of deforestation". The new genus is easily distinguished from other Gymnophthalmidae by having very wide, smooth, and imbricate nuchals, arranged in two longitudinal and 6–10 transverse rows from nape to brachium level, followed by much narrower, strongly keeled, lanceolate, and mucronate scales. It also differs from all other Gymnophthalmidae, except Iphisa, by the presence of two longitudinal rows of ventrals. The new genus differs from Iphisa by having two pairs of enlarged chinshields (one in Iphisa); posterior dorsal scales lanceolate, strongly keeled and not arranged in longitudinal rows (dorsals broad, smooth and forming two longitudinal rows), and lateral scales keeled (smooth). Maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian phylogenetic analyses based on morphological and molecular data indicate the new species form a clade that is most closely related to Iphisa. We also address several no-menclatural issues and present a revised classification of Gymnophthalmidae.
Leposoma percarinatum is one of the two recognized parthenogenetic species in the lizard family G... more Leposoma percarinatum is one of the two recognized parthenogenetic species in the lizard family Gymnophthalmidae, and only females have been reported to date. Here we report and describe the first known males attributed to the species from two localities of northwestern Amazonia. We compare the morphological variation (15 meristic and 10 discrete characters, all relevant to species identification in Leposoma) of males and females from these populations with that of specimens from unisexual populations to test the hypothesis that they belong to the same species. We did not find significant morphological differences between unisexual and bisexual populations, except for those associated with sexual dimorphism. Additionally, we reviewed literature dealing with the origin of parthenogenesis in L. percarinatum and we provide some insights into this subject, in view of the discovery of males in this species.
Description and phylogenetic relationships of a new genus and two new species of lizards from Bra... more Description and phylogenetic relationships of a new genus and two new species of lizards from Brazilian Amazonia, with nomenclatural comments on the taxonomy of Gymnophthalmidae (Reptilia: Squamata) Abstract We describe a new genus and two new species of gymnophthalmid lizards based on specimens collected from Brazilian Amazonia, mostly in the "arc of deforestation". The new genus is easily distinguished from other Gymnophthalmidae by having very wide, smooth, and imbricate nuchals, arranged in two longitudinal and 6–10 transverse rows from nape to brachium level, followed by much narrower, strongly keeled, lanceolate, and mucronate scales. It also differs from all other Gymnophthalmidae, except Iphisa, by the presence of two longitudinal rows of ventrals. The new genus differs from Iphisa by having two pairs of enlarged chinshields (one in Iphisa); posterior dorsal scales lanceolate, strongly keeled and not arranged in longitudinal rows (dorsals broad, smooth and forming two longitudinal rows), and lateral scales keeled (smooth). Maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian phylogenetic analyses based on morphological and molecular data indicate the new species form a clade that is most closely related to Iphisa. We also address several no-menclatural issues and present a revised classification of Gymnophthalmidae.
The tetrapod limb is a highly diverse structure, and reduction or loss of this structure accounts... more The tetrapod limb is a highly diverse structure, and reduction or loss of this structure accounts for many of the limb phenotypes observed within species. Squamate reptiles are one of the many tetrapod lineages in which the limbs have been greatly modified from the pentadactyl generalized pattern, including different degrees of reduction in the number of limb elements to complete limblessness. Even though limb reduction is widespread, the evolutionary and developmental mechanisms involved in the formation of reduced limb morphologies remains unclear. In this study, we present an overview of limb morphology within the microteiid lizard group Gymnophthalmidae, focusing on digit arrangement. We show that there are two major groups of limb-reduced gymnophthalmids. The first group is formed by lizard-like (and frequently pentadactyl) species, in which minor reductions (such as the loss of 1-2 phalanges mainly in digits I and V) are the rule; these morphologies generally correspond to those seen in other squamates. The second group is formed by species showing more drastic losses, which can include the absence of an externally distinct limb in adults. We also present the expression patterns of Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) in the greatly reduced fore and hindlimb of a serpentiform gymnophthalmid. Our discussion focuses on identifying shared patterns of limb reduction among tetrapods, and explaining these patterns and the morphological variation within the gymnophthalmids based on current knowledge of the molecular signaling pathways that coordinate limb development.
We describe two new species of Anomaloglossus from Roraima State, Brazil, that are likely endemic... more We describe two new species of Anomaloglossus from Roraima State, Brazil, that are likely endemic to single mountains currently isolated among lowland forest and savanna ecosystems. The first species, Anomaloglossus tepequem sp. nov. was collected in 1986 and 1992 along a single stream at >500 m elevation on a tepui-like mountain named Tepequém, but was not detected during recent investigations. It is mainly diagnosed from other Anomaloglossus species by its well developed foot webbing, immaculate cream abdomen colouration and small body size (males: 18.2–20.1 mm, females: 21.7–24.5). The second species, Anomaloglossus apiau sp. nov. was found along several streams between 500 and 1400 m elevation on Serra do Apiaú, and is mainly diagnosed from congeners by its weakly webbed feet, males with swollen third finger and ventrolateral stripe formed by white dots, and its advertisement call; a long trill (up to almost 40 s) consisting of pairs of very short pulses. The discovery of these two apparently microendemic species suggests that additional Anomaloglossus species remain to be described in the Guiana Shield. Both species should be considered critically endangered given their seemingly reduced range size, association with highland habitat, and the anthropogenic pressure they currently face.
We describe a new species of Pholidobolus lizard from the Amazonian slopes of the
Andes of southe... more We describe a new species of Pholidobolus lizard from the Amazonian slopes of the Andes of southern Ecuador. Among other characters, the new species differs from other species of Pholidobolus in having a distinct diagonal white stripe extending from the fourth genial scale to the fore limb. We present a phylogeny based on mitochondrial DNA sequence data as additional evidence supporting delimitation of the new species, which is sister to all other species of Pholidobolus. Our phylogeny further supports the south-to-north speciation hypothesis proposed for other lizard clades from the northern Andes.
Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society 166(2): 361-376, Sep 28, 2012
Iphisa elegans Gray, 1851 is a ground-dwelling lizard widespread over Amazonia that displays a br... more Iphisa elegans Gray, 1851 is a ground-dwelling lizard widespread over Amazonia that displays a broadly conserved external morphology over its range. This wide geographical distribution and conservation of body form contrasts with the expected poor dispersal ability of the species, the tumultuous past of Amazonia, and the previously documented prevalence of cryptic species in widespread terrestrial organisms in this region. Here we investigate this homogeneity by examining hemipenial morphology and conducting phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial (CYTB) and nuclear (C-MOS) DNA sequence data from 49 individuals sampled across Amazonia. We detected remarkable variation in hemipenial morphology within this species, with multiple cases of sympatric occurrence of distinct hemipenial morphotypes. Phylogenetic analyses revealed highly divergent lineages corroborating the patterns suggested by the hemipenial morphotypes, including co-occurrence of different lineages. The degrees of genetic and morphological distinctness, as well as instances of sympatry among mtDNA lineages/morphotypes without nuDNA allele sharing, suggest that I. elegans is a complex of cryptic species. An extensive and integrative taxonomic revision of the I. elegans complex throughout its wide geographical range is needed.
A taxonomic study on the South American dwarf boas of the genus Tropidophis revealed the existenc... more A taxonomic study on the South American dwarf boas of the genus Tropidophis revealed the existence of two new species in the Atlantic Forest biome. As a result, we recognize five mainland species, three in the Atlantic Forest and two in northwestern South America. Based on general distribution and morphological orientation, the type locality of T. paucisquamis is restricted to Estação Biológica de Boracéia (EBB), municipality of Salesópolis, state of São Paulo, Brazil; furthermore, a lectotype for T. taczanowskyi is designated. We provide data on the hemipenial morphology of two South American Tropidophis, showing that the quadrifurcate condition described for West Indian taxa also occurs in mainland congeners. The distributions of the three Atlantic Forest species are congruent with patterns of diversification of other vertebrate taxa associated with cold climates prevalent at high elevations. Refugial isolation and riverine barriers may account for such speciation events.
We describe Riama crypta, new species, from the western slopes of the Cordillera Occidental, Ecua... more We describe Riama crypta, new species, from the western slopes of the Cordillera Occidental, Ecuador. This taxon was formerly referred to as Riama hyposticta, a rare species described on the basis of an adult male from northern Ecuador and here recorded from southwestern Colombia. The new species differs principally from Riama hyposticta by an incomplete superciliary series, formed just by the anteriormost superciliary scale (superciliary series complete in R. hyposticta, formed by five or six scales), no nasoloreal suture [= loreal absent] (complete [= loreal present] in R. hyposticta), distinct dorsolateral stripes at least anteriorly (scattered brown spots dorsally without dorsolateral stripes in R. hyposticta), and ventral coloration composed of small cream or brown spots or longitudinal stripes (dark brown with conspicuous transverse white bars and spots). Additionally, we document the presence of distal filiform appendages on the hemipenial lobes of both species.
We redescribe the rare elapomorphine snake Apostolepis longicaudata Gomes in Amaral on the basis ... more We redescribe the rare elapomorphine snake Apostolepis longicaudata Gomes in Amaral on the basis of a detailed examination of the holotype and comparisons with new specimens from the Cerrado of Central Brazil. The new data include information on coloration in life, hemipenial morphology, and natural history. Two specimens identified as A. quinquelineata by previous authors are now attributed to A. nelsonjorgei, which seems to be the only species in the genus with subcaudal counts overlapping those of A. longicaudata.
More than a century after its discovery by Ernest Garbe, and almost 80 years after its original d... more More than a century after its discovery by Ernest Garbe, and almost 80 years after its original description, we obtained a
series of specimens of the earless gymnophthalmid Anotosaura collaris, the type species of the genus, up to now known
only by a single specimen. On the basis of the material obtained at and close to the type locality we redescribe the species,
adding information about the external and hemipenial morphology, osteology and karytoype. Molecular data confirm its
sister relationship with Anotosaura vanzolinia as well as the close relationship of Anotosaura with the Ecpleopodini Colobosauroides
and Dryadosaura. We supplement this information with thermophysiological, ecogeographical, karyotypic
and ecological data.
—Based on morphological and molecular evidence, herein is reported the discovery of a new species... more —Based on morphological and molecular evidence, herein is reported the discovery of a new species of Pholidobolus from the Andes of northwestern Peru. The new species is known from the montane forests of Cajamarca and Lambayeque departments, at elevations of 1,800– 2,300 m. It differs from other species of Pholidobolus in lacking prefrontal scales and having both strongly keeled dorsal scales and a diagonal white bar in the rictal region. Additionally, it is shown that records of P. vertebralis from Peru are based on misidentified specimens. The southernmost distribution records of P. vertebralis are from northwestern Ecuador. Also, an updated identification key for species of Pholidobolus is provided.
Description and phylogenetic relationships of a new genus and two new species of lizards from Bra... more Description and phylogenetic relationships of a new genus and two new species of lizards from Brazilian Amazonia, with nomenclatural comments on the taxonomy of Gymnophthalmidae (Reptilia: Squamata) Abstract We describe a new genus and two new species of gymnophthalmid lizards based on specimens collected from Brazilian Amazonia, mostly in the "arc of deforestation". The new genus is easily distinguished from other Gymnophthalmidae by having very wide, smooth, and imbricate nuchals, arranged in two longitudinal and 6–10 transverse rows from nape to brachium level, followed by much narrower, strongly keeled, lanceolate, and mucronate scales. It also differs from all other Gymnophthalmidae, except Iphisa, by the presence of two longitudinal rows of ventrals. The new genus differs from Iphisa by having two pairs of enlarged chinshields (one in Iphisa); posterior dorsal scales lanceolate, strongly keeled and not arranged in longitudinal rows (dorsals broad, smooth and forming two longitudinal rows), and lateral scales keeled (smooth). Maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian phylogenetic analyses based on morphological and molecular data indicate the new species form a clade that is most closely related to Iphisa. We also address several no-menclatural issues and present a revised classification of Gymnophthalmidae.
Leposoma percarinatum is one of the two recognized parthenogenetic species in the lizard family G... more Leposoma percarinatum is one of the two recognized parthenogenetic species in the lizard family Gymnophthalmidae, and only females have been reported to date. Here we report and describe the first known males attributed to the species from two localities of northwestern Amazonia. We compare the morphological variation (15 meristic and 10 discrete characters, all relevant to species identification in Leposoma) of males and females from these populations with that of specimens from unisexual populations to test the hypothesis that they belong to the same species. We did not find significant morphological differences between unisexual and bisexual populations, except for those associated with sexual dimorphism. Additionally, we reviewed literature dealing with the origin of parthenogenesis in L. percarinatum and we provide some insights into this subject, in view of the discovery of males in this species.
Description and phylogenetic relationships of a new genus and two new species of lizards from Bra... more Description and phylogenetic relationships of a new genus and two new species of lizards from Brazilian Amazonia, with nomenclatural comments on the taxonomy of Gymnophthalmidae (Reptilia: Squamata) Abstract We describe a new genus and two new species of gymnophthalmid lizards based on specimens collected from Brazilian Amazonia, mostly in the "arc of deforestation". The new genus is easily distinguished from other Gymnophthalmidae by having very wide, smooth, and imbricate nuchals, arranged in two longitudinal and 6–10 transverse rows from nape to brachium level, followed by much narrower, strongly keeled, lanceolate, and mucronate scales. It also differs from all other Gymnophthalmidae, except Iphisa, by the presence of two longitudinal rows of ventrals. The new genus differs from Iphisa by having two pairs of enlarged chinshields (one in Iphisa); posterior dorsal scales lanceolate, strongly keeled and not arranged in longitudinal rows (dorsals broad, smooth and forming two longitudinal rows), and lateral scales keeled (smooth). Maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian phylogenetic analyses based on morphological and molecular data indicate the new species form a clade that is most closely related to Iphisa. We also address several no-menclatural issues and present a revised classification of Gymnophthalmidae.
The tetrapod limb is a highly diverse structure, and reduction or loss of this structure accounts... more The tetrapod limb is a highly diverse structure, and reduction or loss of this structure accounts for many of the limb phenotypes observed within species. Squamate reptiles are one of the many tetrapod lineages in which the limbs have been greatly modified from the pentadactyl generalized pattern, including different degrees of reduction in the number of limb elements to complete limblessness. Even though limb reduction is widespread, the evolutionary and developmental mechanisms involved in the formation of reduced limb morphologies remains unclear. In this study, we present an overview of limb morphology within the microteiid lizard group Gymnophthalmidae, focusing on digit arrangement. We show that there are two major groups of limb-reduced gymnophthalmids. The first group is formed by lizard-like (and frequently pentadactyl) species, in which minor reductions (such as the loss of 1-2 phalanges mainly in digits I and V) are the rule; these morphologies generally correspond to those seen in other squamates. The second group is formed by species showing more drastic losses, which can include the absence of an externally distinct limb in adults. We also present the expression patterns of Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) in the greatly reduced fore and hindlimb of a serpentiform gymnophthalmid. Our discussion focuses on identifying shared patterns of limb reduction among tetrapods, and explaining these patterns and the morphological variation within the gymnophthalmids based on current knowledge of the molecular signaling pathways that coordinate limb development.
We describe two new species of Anomaloglossus from Roraima State, Brazil, that are likely endemic... more We describe two new species of Anomaloglossus from Roraima State, Brazil, that are likely endemic to single mountains currently isolated among lowland forest and savanna ecosystems. The first species, Anomaloglossus tepequem sp. nov. was collected in 1986 and 1992 along a single stream at >500 m elevation on a tepui-like mountain named Tepequém, but was not detected during recent investigations. It is mainly diagnosed from other Anomaloglossus species by its well developed foot webbing, immaculate cream abdomen colouration and small body size (males: 18.2–20.1 mm, females: 21.7–24.5). The second species, Anomaloglossus apiau sp. nov. was found along several streams between 500 and 1400 m elevation on Serra do Apiaú, and is mainly diagnosed from congeners by its weakly webbed feet, males with swollen third finger and ventrolateral stripe formed by white dots, and its advertisement call; a long trill (up to almost 40 s) consisting of pairs of very short pulses. The discovery of these two apparently microendemic species suggests that additional Anomaloglossus species remain to be described in the Guiana Shield. Both species should be considered critically endangered given their seemingly reduced range size, association with highland habitat, and the anthropogenic pressure they currently face.
We describe a new species of Pholidobolus lizard from the Amazonian slopes of the
Andes of southe... more We describe a new species of Pholidobolus lizard from the Amazonian slopes of the Andes of southern Ecuador. Among other characters, the new species differs from other species of Pholidobolus in having a distinct diagonal white stripe extending from the fourth genial scale to the fore limb. We present a phylogeny based on mitochondrial DNA sequence data as additional evidence supporting delimitation of the new species, which is sister to all other species of Pholidobolus. Our phylogeny further supports the south-to-north speciation hypothesis proposed for other lizard clades from the northern Andes.
Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society 166(2): 361-376, Sep 28, 2012
Iphisa elegans Gray, 1851 is a ground-dwelling lizard widespread over Amazonia that displays a br... more Iphisa elegans Gray, 1851 is a ground-dwelling lizard widespread over Amazonia that displays a broadly conserved external morphology over its range. This wide geographical distribution and conservation of body form contrasts with the expected poor dispersal ability of the species, the tumultuous past of Amazonia, and the previously documented prevalence of cryptic species in widespread terrestrial organisms in this region. Here we investigate this homogeneity by examining hemipenial morphology and conducting phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial (CYTB) and nuclear (C-MOS) DNA sequence data from 49 individuals sampled across Amazonia. We detected remarkable variation in hemipenial morphology within this species, with multiple cases of sympatric occurrence of distinct hemipenial morphotypes. Phylogenetic analyses revealed highly divergent lineages corroborating the patterns suggested by the hemipenial morphotypes, including co-occurrence of different lineages. The degrees of genetic and morphological distinctness, as well as instances of sympatry among mtDNA lineages/morphotypes without nuDNA allele sharing, suggest that I. elegans is a complex of cryptic species. An extensive and integrative taxonomic revision of the I. elegans complex throughout its wide geographical range is needed.
A taxonomic study on the South American dwarf boas of the genus Tropidophis revealed the existenc... more A taxonomic study on the South American dwarf boas of the genus Tropidophis revealed the existence of two new species in the Atlantic Forest biome. As a result, we recognize five mainland species, three in the Atlantic Forest and two in northwestern South America. Based on general distribution and morphological orientation, the type locality of T. paucisquamis is restricted to Estação Biológica de Boracéia (EBB), municipality of Salesópolis, state of São Paulo, Brazil; furthermore, a lectotype for T. taczanowskyi is designated. We provide data on the hemipenial morphology of two South American Tropidophis, showing that the quadrifurcate condition described for West Indian taxa also occurs in mainland congeners. The distributions of the three Atlantic Forest species are congruent with patterns of diversification of other vertebrate taxa associated with cold climates prevalent at high elevations. Refugial isolation and riverine barriers may account for such speciation events.
We describe Riama crypta, new species, from the western slopes of the Cordillera Occidental, Ecua... more We describe Riama crypta, new species, from the western slopes of the Cordillera Occidental, Ecuador. This taxon was formerly referred to as Riama hyposticta, a rare species described on the basis of an adult male from northern Ecuador and here recorded from southwestern Colombia. The new species differs principally from Riama hyposticta by an incomplete superciliary series, formed just by the anteriormost superciliary scale (superciliary series complete in R. hyposticta, formed by five or six scales), no nasoloreal suture [= loreal absent] (complete [= loreal present] in R. hyposticta), distinct dorsolateral stripes at least anteriorly (scattered brown spots dorsally without dorsolateral stripes in R. hyposticta), and ventral coloration composed of small cream or brown spots or longitudinal stripes (dark brown with conspicuous transverse white bars and spots). Additionally, we document the presence of distal filiform appendages on the hemipenial lobes of both species.
We redescribe the rare elapomorphine snake Apostolepis longicaudata Gomes in Amaral on the basis ... more We redescribe the rare elapomorphine snake Apostolepis longicaudata Gomes in Amaral on the basis of a detailed examination of the holotype and comparisons with new specimens from the Cerrado of Central Brazil. The new data include information on coloration in life, hemipenial morphology, and natural history. Two specimens identified as A. quinquelineata by previous authors are now attributed to A. nelsonjorgei, which seems to be the only species in the genus with subcaudal counts overlapping those of A. longicaudata.
Uploads
Papers by Pedro M S Nunes
series of specimens of the earless gymnophthalmid Anotosaura collaris, the type species of the genus, up to now known
only by a single specimen. On the basis of the material obtained at and close to the type locality we redescribe the species,
adding information about the external and hemipenial morphology, osteology and karytoype. Molecular data confirm its
sister relationship with Anotosaura vanzolinia as well as the close relationship of Anotosaura with the Ecpleopodini Colobosauroides
and Dryadosaura. We supplement this information with thermophysiological, ecogeographical, karyotypic
and ecological data.
currently isolated among lowland forest and savanna ecosystems. The first species, Anomaloglossus tepequem sp. nov.
was collected in 1986 and 1992 along a single stream at >500 m elevation on a tepui-like mountain named Tepequém, but
was not detected during recent investigations. It is mainly diagnosed from other Anomaloglossus species by its well developed
foot webbing, immaculate cream abdomen colouration and small body size (males: 18.2–20.1 mm, females:
21.7–24.5). The second species, Anomaloglossus apiau sp. nov. was found along several streams between 500 and 1400
m elevation on Serra do Apiaú, and is mainly diagnosed from congeners by its weakly webbed feet, males with swollen
third finger and ventrolateral stripe formed by white dots, and its advertisement call; a long trill (up to almost 40 s) consisting
of pairs of very short pulses. The discovery of these two apparently microendemic species suggests that additional
Anomaloglossus species remain to be described in the Guiana Shield. Both species should be considered critically endangered
given their seemingly reduced range size, association with highland habitat, and the anthropogenic pressure they
currently face.
Andes of southern Ecuador. Among other characters, the new species differs from other species of
Pholidobolus in having a distinct diagonal white stripe extending from the fourth genial scale to the
fore limb. We present a phylogeny based on mitochondrial DNA sequence data as additional evidence
supporting delimitation of the new species, which is sister to all other species of Pholidobolus.
Our phylogeny further supports the south-to-north speciation hypothesis proposed for other lizard
clades from the northern Andes.
series of specimens of the earless gymnophthalmid Anotosaura collaris, the type species of the genus, up to now known
only by a single specimen. On the basis of the material obtained at and close to the type locality we redescribe the species,
adding information about the external and hemipenial morphology, osteology and karytoype. Molecular data confirm its
sister relationship with Anotosaura vanzolinia as well as the close relationship of Anotosaura with the Ecpleopodini Colobosauroides
and Dryadosaura. We supplement this information with thermophysiological, ecogeographical, karyotypic
and ecological data.
currently isolated among lowland forest and savanna ecosystems. The first species, Anomaloglossus tepequem sp. nov.
was collected in 1986 and 1992 along a single stream at >500 m elevation on a tepui-like mountain named Tepequém, but
was not detected during recent investigations. It is mainly diagnosed from other Anomaloglossus species by its well developed
foot webbing, immaculate cream abdomen colouration and small body size (males: 18.2–20.1 mm, females:
21.7–24.5). The second species, Anomaloglossus apiau sp. nov. was found along several streams between 500 and 1400
m elevation on Serra do Apiaú, and is mainly diagnosed from congeners by its weakly webbed feet, males with swollen
third finger and ventrolateral stripe formed by white dots, and its advertisement call; a long trill (up to almost 40 s) consisting
of pairs of very short pulses. The discovery of these two apparently microendemic species suggests that additional
Anomaloglossus species remain to be described in the Guiana Shield. Both species should be considered critically endangered
given their seemingly reduced range size, association with highland habitat, and the anthropogenic pressure they
currently face.
Andes of southern Ecuador. Among other characters, the new species differs from other species of
Pholidobolus in having a distinct diagonal white stripe extending from the fourth genial scale to the
fore limb. We present a phylogeny based on mitochondrial DNA sequence data as additional evidence
supporting delimitation of the new species, which is sister to all other species of Pholidobolus.
Our phylogeny further supports the south-to-north speciation hypothesis proposed for other lizard
clades from the northern Andes.