Coastal plains skink facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Coastal plains skink |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Ctenotus
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| Species: |
ora
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The coastal plains skink (Ctenotus ora) is a small lizard. It is a type of skink. You can find it in a special area of Western Australia. This area is called the Swan Coastal Plain. It lives south of the city of Perth.
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Discovering the Coastal Plains Skink
Who Discovered This Skink?
Scientists first officially identified the coastal plains skink in 2012. Researchers from the Australian National University found it. They were studying all the different kinds of plants and animals in South-western Australia.
How Did They Know It Was New?
During their research, they realized Ctenotus ora was a completely new species. It was different from other known skinks. They also found it was a close relative, or "sister species," to another skink. This relative is the Lancelin Island skink (Ctenotus lancelini), which is also facing threats.
What Does Its Name Mean?
The scientific name for this skink is Ctenotus ora. The first part, Ctenotus, means "comb-ear." This refers to a special feature of skinks in this group. The second part, ora, comes from Latin. It means "coast," "seaside," or "shore." This name perfectly describes where this skink lives.
Where Does the Coastal Plains Skink Live?
Its Special Home on the Coast
The coastal plains skink lives in a very specific place. It has only been found in small numbers. Its home is a narrow strip of sand dunes. This area is on the Swan Coastal Plain. It stretches south of Perth, Western Australia. The skink lives between the towns of Dunsborough and Mandurah.
Why Is Its Home Important?
This small area is very important for the skink. However, its home is shrinking. New houses and buildings are being built along the coast near Perth. This development is a big threat to the skink. Scientists who described the species suggested it needs help right away. They believe we should work to protect its habitat.
What Does the Coastal Plains Skink Look Like?
Size and Color
The coastal plains skink is quite small. It is about 6 centimetres (or 2.4 inches) long. This measurement is from its snout (nose) to its vent (a small opening near its tail). The skink has a dark body color.
Its Unique Stripe
One special feature of this skink is a white stripe. This stripe runs continuously along its back and sides. Scientists call this a "dorsolateral" stripe. "Dorso" means back, and "lateral" means side. So, it's a stripe along its back and sides.
