A New Subspecies, Ablepharus kitaibelii (Bibron & Borry, 1833) budaki n. ssp. (Sauria: Scincidae) From the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

Authors: Bayram GÖÇMEN, Yusuf KUMLUTAŞ, Murat TOSUNOĞLU

Abstract: A new subspecies, Ablepharus kitaibelii budaki n. spp. that is distinguished from previously described subspecies, is recognized. Designation of A. k. budaki as a new subspecies, separate from the other subspecies, is based on the following characteristics: (a) the ventral side colouration of the trunk and tail, (b) the number of the vertical rows of scales between the masseteric and ear opening and (c) the size of the ear openings. Moreover, it is pointed out that the population of A. kitaibelii and especially the taxonomical status of A. k. chernovi in Turkey should be considered again.

Keywords: Ablepharus kitaibelii budaki n. ssp. (Sauria: Scincidae), T. R. N. Cyprus, Turkey