Rainbow skink
A species of Afro-malagasy mabuyas, Also known as Blue-tailed skink Scientific name : Trachylepis margaritifera Genus : Afro-malagasy mabuyas
Rainbow skink, A species of Afro-malagasy mabuyas
Also known as:
Blue-tailed skink
Scientific name: Trachylepis margaritifera
Genus: Afro-malagasy mabuyas
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Bernard DUPONT , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The Rainbow Mabuya , Rainbow Skink or Blue-tailed Skink due to the blue tail, Trachylepis margaritifera is a species of Afro-Malagasy mabuya or skink in the subfamily Lygosominae.
General Info
Lifespan
5-10 years
Diet
Rainbow skink is primarily an insectivore species, hunting down a variety of arthropods. This skink shows a distinct inclination towards small invertebrates, especially beetles and spiders, exploiting its excellent predatory skills to forage.
Appearance
Rainbow skink is a medium-sized skink with a streamlined body shape and smooth, shiny scales. Its coloration ranges from dark brown to black with pearly, iridescent specks that give it a unique, sparkling appearance. The underside is lighter, often cream or light yellow. It has a long, tapering tail and lacks any significant sexual dimorphism or age-related differences.
Behavior
Rainbow skink display diurnal behavior, actively foraging during daylight hours. The species is mostly solitary, with males exhibiting territorial tendencies. Its survival is facilitated by speed and agility, with rapid escape abilities to avoid predators. Notably, rainbow skink reproduce by ovoviviparity, a distinct trait among reptiles.
Photo By Bernard DUPONT , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Skinks Genus
Afro-malagasy mabuyas Species
Rainbow skink