Noronha skink

The Noronha Skink: A Unique Species with a Complicated Past

Imagine a small, curious creature that has managed to survive and thrive in one of the most remote places on Earth. The Noronha skink (Trachylepis atlantica) is just such an animal, found exclusively on Fernando de Noronha, a tiny island off northeastern Brazil. This little lizard has a fascinating history, filled with twists and turns that have left scientists scratching their heads.

The Naming Conundrum

When the Noronha skink was first described by John Edward Gray in 1839, it was named Mabouya punctatissima. But this name quickly became tangled in a web of taxonomic confusion. In 1874, A. W. E. O’Shaughnessy proposed a new species, but later, the name was synonymized with Mabuya punctata without much explanation. It wasn’t until 2002 that P. Mausfeld and D. Vrcibradic re-examined the original specimens and suggested that Mabouya punctatissima might be a separate species, but its name was preoccupied by another creature.

African Origins?

The Noronha skink’s journey to Fernando de Noronha is shrouded in mystery. Some scientists believe it rafted across the ocean from Africa, while others suggest it may have arrived via a different route. In 2002, Mausfeld and Vrcibradic published their findings, concluding that Mabuya atlantica was correct due to differences in scale features. They also considered Mabouya punctatissima as a separate species but couldn’t resolve its status definitively.

Physical Characteristics

The Noronha skink is a small, agile creature with a long, muscular tail that can break easily. It has light and dark spots on its upperparts, making it blend into the rocky terrain of Fernando de Noronha. Its scales have three keels, fewer than those found in T. maculata. The skink’s body is slender, with a small head and thin tongue. Its eyes are small, and it has well-developed auricular lobules for hearing.

Behavior and Diet

The Noronha skink is an opportunistic omnivore that thrives on anything edible. During the dry season, it mainly eats plant material but also feeds on insects. It can climb trees to reach nectar from flowers, aiding in pollination. Interestingly, humans have introduced additional food sources like Acacia seeds and cookie crumbs given by tourists, which may increase its abundance.

Conservation Status

The Noronha skink is currently classified as least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, climate change and urbanization pose potential threats to its habitat. The species lacks natural predators but faces predation from introduced species like cats and cattle egrets.

Conclusion

The Noronha skink is a fascinating creature with a complex history that continues to intrigue scientists. Its journey from Africa, through taxonomic confusion, and into the unique ecosystem of Fernando de Noronha makes it a true survivor. As we continue to study this species, we gain valuable insights into the resilience and adaptability of life in extreme environments.