Description and Phylogenetic Relationships of a New Genus and Species of Lizard (Squamata, Gymnophthalmidae) from the Amazonian Rainforest of Northern Brazil

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Author(s):	Peloso, Pedro L. V. ; Pellegrino, Katia C. M. ; Rodrigues, Miguel T. ; Avila-Pires, Teresa C. S. Total Authors: 4
Document type:	Journal article
Source:	American Museum Novitates; v. N/A, n. 3713, p. 24-pg., 2011-05-09.
Abstract
Marinussaurus curupira, a new genus and species of Gymnophthalmidae lizard is described from Iranduba, state of Amazonas, Brazil. The genus is characterized by an elongate body; short and stout pentadactyl limbs; all digits clawed; single frontonasal; two prefrontals; absence of frontoparietals; interparietal and parietals forming a straight posterior margin, with interparietal shorter than parietals; distinctive ear opening and eyelid; few temporals; three pairs of chin shields; nasal divided; a distinct collar; smooth, mainly hexagonal, dorsal scales; smooth quadrangular ventral scales; two precloacal and three femoral pores on each side in males; pores between three or four scales. Parsimony (PAR) and partitioned Bayesian (BA) phylogenetic analyses with morphological and molecular data recovered the new genus as a member of the Ecpleopodini radiation of the Cercosaurinae. A close relationship of the new genus with Arthrosaura is postulated. (AU)

FAPESP's process:	03/10335-8 - Systematics and evolution of the herpetological fauna from Neotropical areas
Grantee:	Miguel Trefaut Urbano Rodrigues
Support Opportunities:	Research Projects - Thematic Grants