A new alpine skink species (Scincidae: Eugongylinae: Oligosoma) from Kahurangi National Park, New Zealand

A new species of Oligosoma is described from a slate scree in montane tussock grassland in Kahurangi National Park, New Zealand, where it is currently known from a single small site. The new species (Oligosoma kahurangi sp. nov.) can be distinguished from all congeners by its extremely long tail, 36-38 mid-body scale rows, head length/head width ratio of 1.66, and colour pattern. It is part of the O. longipes Patterson species complex. The species is currently very poorly known but likely to be highly threatened, and we suggest listing as Nationally Critical (Data Poor, One Location) in New Zealand, and Data Deficient in the IUCN red-list. Predation by introduced mammals, particularly mice, is assumed to be a threat to its survival.

Automated summary

The newly described Oligosoma kahurangi species is found in montane tussock grassland in Kahurangi National Park, New Zealand, known from a single small site. This species is distinguished by its extremely long tail, unique scale rows, head length/head width ratio, and color pattern. It is poorly known, likely highly threatened, and recommended to be listed as Nationally Critical in New Zealand and Data Deficient in the IUCN red-list, with predation by introduced mammals such as mice assumed to be a threat.