UNITED STATES
EXPLORING EXPEDITION.
.
DURING THE YEARS
1888, 1839, 1840, 1841, 1842.
UNDER THE COMMAND OF
CHARLES WILKES, U. S. N.
YOL. XX.
HERPETOLOGY,
BT
CHARLES GIRARD,
DOCTOR is MEDICINE: AND SURGERY: CORRESPONDING MEMBER OF THE BOSTON
SOCIETY OF NATURAL HISTORY; THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES OF PHILADELPHIA;
THE LYCEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY OF NEW YORK; THE ELLIOT SOCIETY OF
NATURAL HISTORY OF CHARLESTON, s. c.: THE CALIFORNIA ACADEMY
OF NATURAL SCIENCES, SAN FRANCISCO: THE "SOCIETE HELVETIQUE
DES SCIENCES NATURELLES :" THE " SATURFOUSC HENDE GESELL-
SCHAFT IN ZURICH;" AND THE "SOCIETE DES SCIENCES
NATURELLES DE XEUCHATEL (SWITZERLAND)," ETC.
WITH A FOLIO ATLAS.
PHILADELPHIA:
J. B. L I P P I X C 0 T T & CO.
1858.
UIIVBRSITY
4,
•?
,0
C. SHERMAN & SON, PRINTERS,
Corner of Seventh and Cherry Streets. Philadelphia.
UKIVERSIT7
PREFACE.
To the zoologists into whose hands the present work may come, it
is deemed expedient to state, that as far as the families and genera are
concerned, the author does not profess to give a full synonymy thereof.
Indeed, it was first assumed that the earliest quotation would suffice,
and it is but subsequently that the most prominent sources have been
referred to. In regard to the species, all the synonyms that could be
found have been quoted.
Litigious questions of nomenclature, concerning genera and species,
have been dealt with according to the principle of priority. In a single
instance, however, a species does appear under a name which, accord-
ing to that principle, ought to have been changed ; we refer to Oligo-
soma zelandicum (p. 246). That the subject has been under considera-
tion, is evinced by the synonymy accompanying it, where the name of
Oligosoma moco is quoted. Not possessing the dates at the time the
MS. was prepared, an oversight in proof-reading will account for the
want of conformity in the reference to the " Proceedings of the Aca-
demy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia," in which a synopsis of
the new genera and species has been published, and where it was
anticipated also that the latter name would appear.
The descriptions of several of the Batrachians, from the fact of
having been drawn up from specimens preserved in alcohol, may ill
compare with recent or living ones, especially such as were not sketched
from life. A protracted immersion in alcohol is apt to contract the
vj PREFACE.
tissues, sometimes to a considerable degree ; and, although the author
has been ever mindful of such an occurrence, his pen may have erred
in sundry details of forms or outlines, as well as in the coloration.
When comparisons with genera and species allied to those described
appear deficient, the cause of such deficiency is want of materials.
Of the order of Batrachians, the principal groups are represented
in the collection ; thus enabling the author to institute comparative
studies of most of the genera.
Not so with the Ophidians ; many links are unconnected. Hence,
the impracticability of arranging them into natural families. There
are even genera the limits of which could not be delineated ; for there
is no general collection of exotic serpents in the United States, to
which access might have been had, in order to extend the foregoing
researches and comparisons. As a general rule, it has been deemed
inexpedient to compile from the writers in the same field, where no
specimens were available, the author preferring to record in an unpre-
tending form, whatever observation he might be able to make.
Amongst Saurians we miss, likewise, representatives of several fami-
lies. The difficulties encountered in their investigation have proved
greater still, and the gaps wider yet, than for the Ophidians.
As to the Chelonians, the materials at command were but few and
fragmentary, and for the determination of them, the author has
unexpectedly been led into inquiries of a purely historical character,
and which, it is assumed, have thrown a new light upon the entire
subject of Marine Turtles or Tortoises.
A general glance at the Reptiles, which we have thus been review-
ing, presents two main features : one portion of the collection apper-
taining to Continental, the other to Pelagic Faunas.
The representatives of Continental Faunas were obtained in the
neighborhood of the various ports touched at by the Expedition : the
coasts of Brazil, Patagonia, Chili, Peru, New Holland, Bengal, and
Northwestern America. The others, in the coral and volcanic islands
of the Pacific Ocean.
A curious fact in the geographical distribution of these animals, on the
PREFACE. vii
Coral Islands, consists in the preponderance of the Gecko and Scink
families, to the exclusion almost of all other Saurians, save a genus of
lyucutidae, more intimately related to the species of the same family
indigenous to the New World, than to those of the Old, should the
dentition establish primary relationships ; we allude to the genus
Brachyloplim. Amongst Snakes, the aquatic tribes only were noticed,
with the exception of a Boa, of a peculiar genus (Enygrus). As to
the Tortoises or Sea Turtles, found about those islands, they have
proved, contrary to all expectation, characteristic species of the Poly-
nesian Fauna, as much so as any of the other reptiles.
An interesting result, touching the geographical distribution of the
species of the genus Proctotretus, has been deduced from a comparative
study of the specimens collected on the coasts of Patagonia and Chili.
Hitherto, several of the species alluded to stood on record as inhabit-
ing simultaneously both these remote localities, although it was con-
ceded that " these facts, interesting as they were, had never been
sufficiently investigated,"* and were put down as anomalies in the laws
of geographical distribution of animal life, laws otherwise so precise.
Now, as far as the species of the genus Proctotretus are concerned,
those anomalies no longer exist : the species of the eastern coast of
South America having been found specifically distinct from those of
the western coast of the same continent. As regards Bufo cliilensis,
alluded to by Thomas Bell, no opportunity was afforded us to investi-
gate the subject.
C. G.
* The Zoology of the Voyage of H. M. S. Beagle, under the command of Captain
Fitzroy, K. N., during the years 1832 to 1830. Part. V, Reptiles. London, 1843.
CONTENTS.1
TITLE, ....... . iii
PREFACE, ..... v
CONTENTS, .... • ix
ORPO I.— BATRACHIA, ..... 3
TRIBCS I.— BATRACHIA URODELA, . . 3
a. TREMATODEIRA, .... 3
/?. ATRETODEIRA. . . 3
FAM. SALAMANDRIDAE, ... 4
GENUS TARICHA, ... 4
TARICHA TOROSA, . . 5
FAM. PLETHODONTIDAE, .... 7
GEXUS ANAIDES, .... ... 7
ANAIDES LUGUBRIS, ....... 8
GENUS HEREDIA, ... . 10
HEREDIA OREGONENSIS, . . . .11
GENUS XIPHOXURA, .... 13
XlPHONURA TENEBROSA, . .14
TBIBUS II.— BATRACHIA ANURA, .... . 16
FAM. RANIDAE, ....... .16
GENUS RANA, . . .17
1. RANA AURORA, ..... .18
2. RANA PRETIOSA, ...... 20
3. RANA DRAYTONI, ....... 23
4. RANA MARITIMA, ...... 25
GENUS LEPTODACTTLUS, ..... .28
1. LEPTODACTTLUS OCELLATUS, ..... 29
CONTENTS.
Page
2. LEPTODACTYLUS CALIGINOSUS,
GENUS CYSTJGNATHUS, ... . .
1. CYSTIGNATHUS NEBULOSUS, . . . • .33
2. CYSTIGNATHUS PARVULUS, ... 35
GENUS PLEURODEMA, ........ 37
1. PLEURODEMA BIBROXI, ..... 38
2. PLEURODEMA ELEGANS, .... .40
GENUS WAGLERIA, ..... 42
WAGLEHIA PERONI, .... .42
GENUS RANIDELLA, ...... 44
RANIDELLA SIGNIFERA, . . . . • .44
FAM. HYLIDAE, . 47
GENUS RANOIDEA, ...... .47
1. RANOIDEA RESPLENDENS, . . . . . 48
2. RANOIDEA FLAVO-TIRIDIS, . . ... 50
GENCS HYLARANA, .... . 52
HYLARANA MINDANEIJSIS, . t . . .52
GENUS HALOPHILA, ....... 54
1. HALOPHILA HEROS, . • 55
2. HALOPHILA VITIENSIS, . > > > 57
3. HALOPHILA DORSUALIB, ^ . . v . . 58
GENUS HYLA, ...>.... 59
1. HYLA REGILLA, ....... 60
2. HYLA CYANEA, i . . 62
GENUS HYLODES, ...... 62
HYLODES PARVUS, k i .63
GENUS ELOSIA, ........ 64
1. ELOSIA NASUTA, ..».>. 66
2. ELOSIA BUFONIUM( t ..... 66
3. ELOSIA VOMERINA, . i . . . . 69
FAM. BUFONIDAE, ........ 71
GENUS RHINODERMA, . > 71
RHINODERMA SIONIFERA, . •. •. . . . 72
GENUS BUFO, ..... 74
1. BUFO BOREAS, . . . .74
2. BUFO COLUMBIENSIS, ...... 77
3. BUFO MARINUS, ....... 80
4. BUFO GRACILIS, ...... 83
5. BUFO LUGUBROSUS, ...... 85
6. BUFO THAUL, ....... 88
7. BUFO POEPPIGH, ....... 90
8. BUFO MELANOSTICTUS, ..... 92
CONTENTS. xi
Page
GENUS BCFONELLA, ........ 94
BUFONELLA CRUCIFERA, ...... 95
GENUS METAEUS, . ....... 96
METAEUS TIMIDUS, .... .97
GENUS BRACHYCEPHALUS, ....... 99
BRACHYCEPHALUS AURANTIACUS, . . . . . 100
ORDO II.— OPHIDIA, 105
GENUS SABRINA, .... ... 106
SABRINA TESSELLATA, . . ... 106
GENUS CYLINDROPHIS, ....... 108
CYLINDROPHIS RUFA, ...... 109
GENCS WENONA, . . . . . • . • 111
1. WENONA FLUMBEA, ...... 112
2. WENONA ISABELLA, . . . . • . 113
GENUS MORELIA, . . . . . . .115
MORELIA ARGUS, ....... 115
GENUS ENYGRUS, . . . . . . • .117
ENYGRUS BIBRONI, . . . . • • 117
GENUS RABDION, . . • . • • .119
RABDION OCCIPITALE, . . . • . • 120
GENUS LODIA, . . . . . • • .122
LODIA TENUIS, . . . . • • • 122
GENUS CONTIA, ........ 124
CONTIA MITIS, ....... 125
GENUS BASCANION, . . ... 126
BASCANION VETUSTUS, ...... 127
GENUS DENDROPHIS, ........ 129
1. DENDROPHIS PICTA, . . . • • • 129
2. DENDROPHIS PRASINUS, ...... 131
GENUS PITUOPHIS, .......
1. PITUOPHIS CATENIFER, ... . 135
2. PITUOPHIS WILKESI, ... 137
GENUS CALLIRHINUS, ....... 139
CALLIRHINUS PATAGONIENSIS, . . . . • 139
GENUS SIBYNON, ........ 142
SlBYXOX NEBULATUS, ...... 142
TROPIDONOTUS JUNCEUS, ...... 145
GENUS EUTAENIA, ....... 147
1. EUTAENIA INFERNALIS, ...... 148
2. EUTAENIA PICKERINGI, ..... 150
3. EUTAENIA LEPTOCEPHALA, ..... 151
4. EUTAENIA OUDINOIDES, . ... 153
D
xJi CONTENTS.
p»g«
5. EuTAEXIA VAGRAKS, ...... 154
GENUS CAXTORIA, . . . . . . . 156
CANTORIA VIOLACEA, ...... 156
LlOPHlS MERREMI, ...... 159
DROMMICUS TEMMINCKI, ...... 161
LYGOPHIS ELEGANS, . . . . . . 163
AMPHIESMA RHODOMELAS, . . . . . .165
XEXODON ANCORUS, ...... 16T
ERYTHROLAMPRUS VENUTISSIMUS, . . . . . 169
GENUS CERBERUS, ....... 170
CERBERUS BOAEFORMIS, . . . . . .170
GENUS TACHYMENIS, ....... 173
TACHYMEXIS CHILENSIS, . . . . . .173
GENUS DOLIOPHIS, . . . . . . . 175
DOLIOPHIS FLAVICEPS, . . . . . .176
PSEUDELAPS PSAMMOPHIS, . . . . . 178
GENUS PLATURUS, . . . . . . . .180
1. PLATURUS LATICAUDATUS, . . . . . 180
2. PLATURUS COLUBRINUS, ...... 183
GENUS PELAMYS, ....... 184
PELAMYS BICOLOR, . . . . . . .185
GENUS CROTALUS, . . . . . . . 187
CROTALUS LUCIFER, . . . . . . .187
Oiino III.— SAUBIA, 193
FAM. VARANIDAE, 194
GENUS HYDROSAURUS, . . . . . . . 195
HYDROSAURUS VARIUS, . . . . . .196
FAM. LACERTIDAE, 197
SUBFAM. COELODONTES, 199
GEKUS LACERTA, . . . . . . . . 199
LACERTA MADERENSIS, ...... 200
SUBFAM. PLEO.DONTES, .201
GENUS TEIUS, ........ 201
TEICS TEGUIXIN, ....... 202
FAM. ZONURIDAE, 204
GENUS EL.GARIA, ........ 205
1. ELGARIA FORMOSA, ...... 206
2. ELGARIA SCINCICAUDA, . . . . . 210
3. ELGARIA GRANDIS, ...... 212
4. ELGARIA PRINCIPIS, ...... 214
FAM. AMPHISBAENIDAE, 215
GENUS CEPHALOPELTIS, . . . . . . . 216
CONTENTS. xiii
CEPHAI.OPELTIS SCUTIGERA, ...... 217
FAM. SCINCIDAE, ........ 218
SI-BKAM. OPHIOPHTHALMI, ...... 219
GENUS CRYPTOBLEPHARUS, . . . . . . 219
1. CRYPTOBLEPHARUS PLAGIOCEPH s .... 220
2. CRYPTOBLEPHARUS EXIMIUS, ..... 222
SUBKAM. SAUROPHTHALMI, ...... 223
GENUS OPIIIUDES, ....... 224
OPHIODES STRIATCS. ....... 225
GENUS TILIQUA, ........ 227
TlLIQUA RUFESCENS. ....... 227
GENUS EUPREPIS. ....... 229
EUPREPIS VEXCSTUS, ....... 229
GENUS CYCLODUS, ....... 232
CYCLODUS GIGAS, ....... 233
GENUS CYCLODINA, ....... 235
CYOLODINA AENEA, ....... 236
GENUS HOMBRONIA, ....... 239
1. HOMBRONIA UKDOSA, ...... 240
2. HOMBRONIA FASCIOI.ARIS, ..... 243
GENUS OLIGOSOMA, ..... . 245
1. OLIGOSOMA ZELANDICI M, ..... 246
2. OLIGOSOMA NOCTUUM, ...... 249
GENUS LYGOSOMELLA, ..... 251
LYGOSOMELLA AESTUOSA, ...... 251
GENUS LIPINIA, ........ 254
LIPINIA VULCANIA, ....... 254
GENUS HINULIA, ........ 257
HlNULIA TAENIOLATA, ...... 258
GENUS MABITYA, ........ 260
MABCYA AGILIS, ....... 261
GENUS EMOA, ........ 262
1. EMOA ATROCOSTATA, .... . 264
2. EMOA SAMOENSIS, ..... 265
3. EMOA NIGRITA, . ... 268
4. EMOA CYANURA. ...... 270
FAM. GEKKOTIDAE, ...... .272
GENUS GEHYRA, ... ... 272
1. GEHYRA OCEANRA, ...... 273
2. GEHYRA VORAI, ...... 274
GENUS PEROPUS, ... • 277
1. PEROPUS MUTILATUS, . . . . • • 277
xiv CONTENTS.
Page
2. PBROPUS NEGLECTUS, . . . . . .278
GENUS DACTYLOPERUS, ....... 279
DACTYLOPERUS INSULENSIS. ..... 280
GENUS CROSSURUS, . . . . . . . 281
CROSSURUS PLATYURUS, ...... 281
GENUS HEMIDACTYLUS, ....... 282
1. HEMIDACTYLUS MABUIA, ...... 283
2. HEMIDACTYLUS CYANODACTYI.US, .... 284
GENUS DORYURA, ....... 285
DORYURA VULPECULA, ...... 286
GENUS ASCALABOTES, ....... 288
ASCALABOTES DELALANDII, ...... 289
GENUS GEKKO, ........ 290
1. GEKKO INDIUUS, ...... 290
2. GEKKO MONARCHUS, ...... 292
GENUS HOPLODACTYLUS, ....... 293
HOPLODACTYLUS POMARII, ..... 294
GENUS DIPLODACTYLUS, ...... 296
DlPLODACTYLUS VITTATUS, ..... 297
GENUS DISCODACTYLUS, . . . . . 299
f DISCODACTYLUS PHACOPHORUS, ..... 300
GENUS PHYLLURUS, ..... 302
PHYLLURUS PLATURUS, .... 303
GENUS GONIODACTYLUS, ...... 304
GONIODACTYLUS MARMOKATUS, , 304
GENUS HETERONOTA, ..... 305
HETERONOTA PELAGICA, ...... 306
GENUS NAULTINUS, ..... 303
NAULTINUS PUNCTATUS, . . . 359
PAM. IGUANIDAE, 312
SUBFAM. PLEURODONTES, ... ... 313
GENUS MICRO LOPHUS, .... 313
MlCROLOPHUS PERUVIANUS, . . . 3J4
GENUS TARAGUIRA, .... 317
TARAGUIRA TORQUATA, .... 3jg
GENUS SACCODEIRA, .... 322
SACCODEIRA ORNATISSIMA, .... 323
GENUS PROCTOTRETUS, ..... 326
SUBGENUS PROCTOTRETUS, ..... 329
1. PROCTOTRETUS SPLENDIDUS, .... 329
2. PROCTOTRETUS PECTINATUS, .... 333
SUBGENUS LIOLAEMUS, .... 334
CONTENTS. XV
Pmge
LlOLAEMUS X1TIDUS,
SUBGENUS LlODEIRA,
LlODEIRA CHILEXSIS,
SUBGENUS PTTCHODEIRA,
1. PTYCHODEIRA GRACILIS, . . • 341
2. PTYCHODEIRA FEMORATA,
3. PTYCHODEIRA STAXTOXI, . - 347
4. PTYCHODEIRA CYAXOGASTEK, .
5. PTYCHODEIRA IXTERMEDIA,
6. PTYCHODEIRA MOSAICA, . . 349
SUBGEXUS RHYTIUODEIRA, . • 349
1. RHYTIDODEIRA KIXGI, . • 350
2. RHYTIDODEIRA MAGELLAXICA, . . 351
3. RHYTIDODEIRA BIBROXI, . 352
4. RHYTIDODEIRA WIEGMAXXI, • 352
5. RHYTIDODEIRA XIGROMACULATA, . . 353
6. RUYTIDODEIBA OXYCEPHALA, .... 353
SUBGEXUS EULAEMUS, ....-• 357
1. EULAEMCS TEXUIS, . • • 358
2. EULAEMUS DARWIXI, ... • 361
3. EULAEMUS PICTUS, ..... 364
4. EULAEMUS FITZIXGERI, . . 365
5. EULAEMUS AFFIXIS, ..... 366
6. EULAEMUS SIGXIFER, . . • 366
7. EULAEMUS MACULATUS, . . • 367
SUBGENUS ORTHOLAEMUS, ...... 368
1. ORTHOI-AEMUS BEAGLII, . . • 369
2. ORTHOLAEMUS MULTJMACULATUS, . 372
3. ORTHOLAEMUS FITZROII, . • 373
GEXUS BRACHYLOPHUS, .... • 373
BRACHYLOPHUS FASCIATUS, . . • 374
GEXUS SCELOPORUS, . . • 377
1. SCELOPORUS UXDULATUS, . . • 379
2. SCELOPORCS OCCIDEXTALIS, ..... 383
3. SCELOPORUS FROXTALIS. .... • 384
4. SCELOPORUS GRACILIS,
GEXUS PHRYXOSOMA, . . • • • 388
SUBGEXUS TAPAYA, ... • •
1. TAPAYA ORBICULARIS, . • • 394
2. TAPAYA HERXAXDESI, . • • 395
3. TAPAYA ORXATISSIMA, . . 396
4. TAPAYA BREVIROSTRIS, . 397
E
XVI
CONTENTS.
Page
5. TAPAYA DOUGLASSI, ..... 397
SUBGENUS BATRACHOSOMA, ...... 400
BATKACHOSOMA CORONATUM, .... 400
SUBGENUS PHRYNOSOMA, ...... 402
1. PHRYNOSOMA CORXUTUM, ..... 403
2. PHRYNOSOMA REGALE, .... 406
SUBGENUS DOLIOSAURUS, ...... 407
1. DOLIOSAURUS M'CALLI, .... 408
2. DOLIOSAURUS PLATYUHINOS, .... 409
3. DOLIOSAURUS MODESTUS, .... 409
SUBFAM. ACRODONTES, 410
GENUS BRONCHOCELA, . . . . . . . 411
BRONCHOCELA CRISTATELLA, . . ... 411
GENUS AMPHIBOLURUS, ....... 413
1. AMPHIBOLURUS MURICATUS, ..... 414
2. AMPHIBOLURUS MACULIFERUS, . . . . 417
GENUS OREODEIRA, ........ 419
OREODEIRA GRACILIPES, ...... 420
ORDO IV.— CHELONIA, 425
SUB-ORDO I.— CHELONII, 427
FAM. CHELONIDAE, ........ 429
GENUS THALASSOCHELYS, ...... 429
THALASSOCHELYS CORTICATA, ..... 431
GENUS LEPIDOCHELYS, ....... 434
1. LEPIDOCHELYS OLIVACEA, . . . . . 435
2. LEPIDOCHELYS DUSSUMIERI, ..... 437
REMARKS ON CHELONIA VIRGATA, SCHW., ..... 437
GENUS CARETTA, ........ 438
1. CARETTA IMBRICATA, ...... 440
2. CARETTA SQUAMOSA, ...... 442
3. CARETTA ROSTRATA, ...... 446
GENUS EUCHELYS, ....... 447
EUCHELYS MACBOPUS, ...... 448
REMARKS ON THE GENUS HALICHELYS OF FITZINGER, . . . 451
GENUS CHELONIA, ........ 452
1. CHELONIA VIRIDIS, ...... 453
2. CHELONIA MACULOSA, ...... 454
3. CHELONIA MARMORATA, ..... 455
4. CHELONIA FORMOSA, ...... 456
5. CHELONIA TENUIS, ...... 459
SUB-ORDO II.— TESTUDINATA, 461
FAM. HYDRASPIDES, 462
CONTENTS. xvji
Page
CHELYMYS MAUIJUARIA, ... . 462
FAM. EMYDIDAE, ..... .463
SniFAM. CLEM.MYDIDAE, ... .464
GENUS ACTINEMYS, . . . 464
ACTIN'EMYS MARMOBATA, . . . 465
FAM. TES1TDIXIDAE, ... .470
GENTS TESTUDO, .... . 470
TESTUDO AUSTRAI.IS, . . . 470
LIST OF PLATES, . . . 473
INDEX, ... 477
ORDO I. BATRACHIA.
THE reptiles known under the vernacular names of salamanders,
frogs, tree-frogs, and toads, together with the group of Ceciloid, con-
stitute the natural order of Batrachians. The peculiar metamorphoses
which some of them undergo, have made of them one of the most in-
teresting group of animals both to physiologists and zoologists.
In one tribe, these metamorphoses are of a very prominent order :
we allude to the frogs and toads. The tadpoles, as the young of these
latter are called, are provided with a tail, wanting at the same time
both pairs of legs. They, furthermore, lead a purely aquatic life ;
breathing through the means of gills, situated on either side of the
neck, altogether unprotected, and fish-like in their external aspect.
By degrees the legs make their appearance, and the tail diminishing,
until it is entirely absorbed. Meanwhile the lungs are developed, and
the gills atrophy ; a complete change in their mode of life takes place :
they leave the water and take to the dry land.
The majority of the caudate Batrachians (Vrodela), undergo likewise
metamorphoses in their mode of breathing : at first, this act is per-
formed through the means of gills, whose function is gradually super-
seded by that of the lungs.
From this twofold mode of life of these Batrachians, the Order to
which they belong has often been called the Order of Amphibia.
The structure of the heart and the system of circulation has led
some naturalists to look upon the Batrachians as constituting a class
by themselves, more intimately allied to the class of fishes than to that
of reptiles, properly so called. That structure, added to the metamor-
phoses above alluded to, and to the facts, that there are no external
organs of generation in the males, and that the external envelope of
i
BATRACHIA.
the eggs is membranous, which eggs are mostly laid before the act of
fecundation takes place, are, indeed, strong analogies of what is ob-
served in most fishes. Still, the general opinion now is, that the
affinities of the Batrachians with the other reptiles are most intimate,
and that their true place in the organic scale, is in the latter class, in
which they constitute a natural order.
The true affinities of the Batrachians with the other reptiles, con-
sist in the structure of their skeleton : there are two occipital con-
dyles uniting the skull to the vertebral column, and in the majority of
them we observe a distinct sternum, although not combined with the
ribs, themselves rather short.
TRIBUS I. BATRACHIA URODELA.
BOOT elongated, lacertiform, tapering, provided with a tail in the adult
as well as in the young ; having generally four limbs, and sometimes
only two ; the fingers and toes being always clawless. Skin naked,
either perfectly smooth, warty, or granular. There are teeth on
both jaws, and often on the vomer and sphenoid bones also. No
external auricular aperture. Inner nostrils situated in the middle
of the palate. Vent longitudinal. Neither sternum nor clavicle.
SYN.— Urodtles, BUM. Zool. anal. 1806.— BUM. & BIBB. Erpet. g<Sn. VIII, 1841, 15;
&, IX, 1854, 1.
OBSERV. — Generally known under the name of salamanders, in op-
position to the frogs and toads, and which constitute the tribe of
ecaudate Batrachians (Batrachia anura), the caudate Batrachians
(Batraclna urodela), resemble the lizards in their general appearance,
and are often confounded with them by the uninitiated. A feature by
which they can at once be distinguished from the lizards, consists in
their naked skin ; whilst lizards exhibit either scales of various forms
and structure, else granular epidermic indurations of a peculiar type.
Besides, should the integuments leave us in doubt as to the nature of
the animals under consideration, there are other characters to which
BATRACHIAURODELA. 3
we may have recourse. Thus, whatever be the number of fingers
and toes, they are always clawless in these Batrachians, for, the
geckos, which are amongst lizards those that might be mistaken for
them, although deficient in the development of their toes, will, never-
theless, always exhibit enough of these organs to guide the observer
without any difficulty. The absence of external auricular apertures,
is another feature peculiar to the tailed Batrachians, and but seldom
met with amongst lizards ; and, finally, the longitudinal anal aperture
is not the least amongst the distinguishing traits of these two divisions
of animals.
The tailed Batrachians subdivide into two groups ;
a. TREMATODEIRA,
WHERE we observe either external or internal gills persisting through-
out life. When the gills are internal, there are branchial fissures
or apertures on the sides of the neck.
SYN.— Trlmatodlres, BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. VIII, 1841, 53; &, IX, 1854, 174.
OBSERV. — None of which were collected by the Expedition.
/?. ATRETODEIRA.
WHEN fully grown there are neither external nor internal gills, hence
no branchial apertures. The young, however, are provided with
external gills, which they gradually lose in growing up to maturity.
At this latter period of their existence, the lungs are called into
play, through the means of which they breathe the atmospheric air.
Svy.—Atrttodlres, BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. VIII, 1841, 53; &, IX, 1854, 36.
OBSERV. — The species of Urodelian Batrachians collected by the
Expedition are but four in number, all of which belong to the second
group, that in which the gills and branchial apertures become oblite-
rated when entering upon the period of maturity, or full-grown state.
These four species are distributed into four genera, one of which
belongs to the family of Salamandridae, and the three others to
that of Plethodontidae.
BATRACHIA.
FAM. SALAMAKDRIDAE.
PALATINE teeth extant, and disposed upon two diverging or else parallel
series, along the inner hinder edge of the vomero-palatine bones,
which are elongated. Sphenoid bone toothless.
SYN. — Salamandridae, GRAY, Ann. of Philos. 1825, 215. — BONAP. Saggio Distr.
inetod. Anim. vertebr. 1831, 84. — GEAY, Catal. Amph. Brit. Mus. II, 1850, 14.
OBSEEV. — All the genera which constitute the present family are
characterized by the peculiar disposition of the palatine teeth, which
are arranged upon two longitudinal series ; " one on the inner hinder
edge of each of the elongated triangular vomerine bones," as observed
by J. E. Gray. The sphenoid bone is toothless. The tongue is broad ;
free laterally, and more or less free also posteriorly.
GENUS TARICHA, GRAY.
GEN. CHAR. — Head broad, depressed. Snout protruding slightly
beyond the lower jaw. Tongue rather small, rounded or elliptical,
attached by almost its whole under surface. Palatine teeth dis-
posed upon two longitudinal series, forming an elongated and very
acute angle. Maxillary teeth rather small. Tail very long and
compressed. Four fingers and five toes, entirely free, broad and
depressed. Skin either smooth or granular.
SYN.— Tariclia, GRAY, Catal. Amph. Brit. Mus. II, 1850, 25.
OBSERV. — With a general resemblance to Tritons, the species of this
genus may be readily distinguished from the latter by the inconspicu-
ousness of the maxillary teeth, by a much smaller tongue, and by the
absence of a series of pores on either side of the abdomen.
Eschscholtz, in his " Zoologischer Atlas," has furnished us with
valuable information regarding the anatomical structure and zoological
characters of this genus.
Two species of the genus Tariclia have so far been described ; both
inhabiting the western coast of North America. One of these was
BATRACHIAURODELA. 5
brought home by the Expedition ; is figured and described further on ;
the other was collected at San Francisco, Cal., by Dr. John L.
Leconte, and recorded under the name of Taricha Icevie ;* it being
perfectly smooth, and furthermore distinguished from Taricha torosa
by proportionally smaller eyes and more elongated toes.
Hallowell's Salamandra luyubris, doubtfully referred by J. E. Grayf
to the genus Taricha, is entirely distinct from the latter, and consti-
tutes now the genus Anaides, described further on.
TARICHA TOROSA, Gray.
(Plate I, figs. 1-8.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Tail longer than the head and body together, com-
pressed, provided with a slightly elevated membranous keel upon
its upper and lo\ver edges. Tip of toes callous ; inner toe in both
pair of limbs very small. Skin granular. Color blackish-brown above,
with minute pale dots; sides of abdomen orange; beneath yellowish.
SYX. — Triton torosus, ESCHSCH. Zool. Atl. V. 1833, 12. Taf. xxi, fig. 15.
Triton ermani, WIEGM. in Erman's Reise urn die Erde, 1835, :
and Arch, fur Naturg. 1836, II, 250.
Salamandra beecheyi, GRAY, in Beechfy's Voy. to the Pacif. Zool. 1839, 99.
Triton granulosus, SKILT. Amer. Journ. of Sci. VII, 1849, 202. PI. figs. 4 and 5.
jNotophthalmus torosus, BAIRD, Journ. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. Second Series, I,
1850, 284.
P/eurodeles California*, BlBR. in Mus. Zool. Soc. London. (Fide Gray.)
Taricha torosa, GRAY, Catal. Amph. Brit. Mus. II, 1850, 25.
DESCR. — The head is broad and depressed, the upper surface being
subconvex. Viewed from above, it is subelliptical in shape, longer
than broad. The snout is subtruncated, and the temporal region
swollen. The eyes are of medium size, elliptical in shape. The dis-
tance between the anterior rim of the eye and the extremity of the
snout is equal to one and a half diameter of the eye. The nostrils
are subterminal, and far apart. The upper jaw overlaps the lower,
the mouth being but moderately cleft, and extending posteriorly ;
.i
* Proc. Acad. Nat. Sei. Philad. VI, 1853, 302.
f Catal. Amph. Brit. Mus. Part II, 1850, 26
2
6 BATRACHIA.
little beyond the posterior rim of the orbit. When the mouth is closed,
its posterior third is entirely overlapped by a horny expansion of the
upper jaw. The teeth, on both jaws, are very minute, slender and
acute, disposed upon one irregular row. The vomero -palatine teeth
are not conspicuous, and in order to ascertain their presence a magni-
fying glass is required.
The body is subcylindrical ; thickest upon its middle, and dimi-
nishing slightly anteriorly, more so posteriorly. The tail, longer than
the body and head together, is very much compressed, roundish upon
its origin, but very thin towards its posterior extremity. It is pro-
vided, above and below, with a membranous, fin-like expansion,
extending from near the base to its very tip.
The fore and hind limbs are almost of the same stoutness and length ;
the toes, in both, are depressed. The anterior limbs have four toes,
the innermost of which being very small ; the third is the longest ;
the second a little shorter than the third ; the fourth, or outermost,
being still shorter than the second. There are five toes to the hind
limbs ; the innermost, the smallest ; the outermost, a little larger
than the latter ; the third, the longest ; the second, a little shorter
than the fourth. The extremities are callous in all.
The skin, owing to the presence of small tubercles, has a granulated
appearance throughout. The tubercles are irregularly distributed all
over the head, body, tail, and membranous expansion, limbs, toes, and
under surface of the body and head ; nearly as thickly beset on one
region, as on the other, mayhap, a little more numerous upon the
head. The tubercles themselves are smooth ; the intervening space
is covered with exceedingly minute granules.
No sooner immersed in alcohol, specimens contract considerably,
and then exhibit folds of the skin, which are not observed on live
individuals. There are no systems or series of pores visible upon
any region of the body, as is the case in Tritons. Minute pores are
scattered all over the body, in the same manner as the tubercles
themselves.
The color of the head, body, and limbs, is brownish-black above ;
reddish-brown, in specimens preserved in alcohol. The iris is black.
Small light spots may be seen upon the head and anterior portion of
the body. The sides of the abdomen and limbs, also the lower por-
tion of the tail, are reddish-orange. The inferior surface of the head,
belly, and limbs, is dull-yellow or brownish-yellow.
BATBACHIAURODELA. 7
Many specimens of this species were collected in 1841, at Nisqually,
Puget Sound (Oregon), and San Francisco (California). The sketch
from life was made from Puget's Sound specimens by Jos. Drayton.
Plate I, fig. 1, represents Taricha torosa ; size of life and in profile.
Fig. 2, exhibits the under surface of the same specimen.
Fig. 3, is an outline of the head, seen from above, showing the wide
interocular space.
Fig. 4, shows the head in profile, and exhibits the cleft of the
mouth.
Fig. 5, is a front view of the head.
Fig. 6, a view of the inferior floor of the mouth, in order to show
the shape and size of the tongue.
Fig. 7, is the upper floor of the mouth, exhibiting the inner nostrils,
and the position of the teeth.
Fig. 8, represents a magnified portion of the skin, taken upon the
dorsal region, giving an idea of its structure.
FAM. PLETHODONTIDAE.
Vomero-palatine teeth disposed upon one series across the posterior
extremity of the vomerine bones, thus constituting a cross band
behind the inner nostrils, in front of the palate. Sphenoid often-
times covered with teeth. Vomerine bone broad and short. Skin
generally smooth, rarely granular, and without any series of pores.
S?y.—Plethodontidae, GRAY, Catal. Amph. Brit. Mus. II, 1850, 31.
OBSERV. — The above characters of the Pletliodont family are mostly
derived from the "Catalogue of Amphibia in the British Museum."
GENUS ANAIDES, BAIRD.
GEN. CHAR. — Head, subelliptical, broader than the body ; snout,
bluntly truncated, and protruding beyond the lower jaw. Cleft of
the mouth, undulating, as in the alligator. Maxillary teeth very
large, compressed, lanceolated, and sharp, with edge minutely
g BATRACHIA.
crenated ; largest upon the lower jaw, and all, apparently, un-
attached to the bone, but united to the gum, and admitting of a
depression backwards. Vomero-palatine teeth inconspicuous ; dis-
posed upon an obtuse-angled triangle, behind the inner nostrils, which
consist merely in a notch in the posterior edge of the palatine floor.
Sphenoid teeth in two elongated and approximated patches. Tongue
large, cordiform, attached along its median line only. Eyes, large and
prominent. Limbs, rather slender ; four fingers and five toes, slender,
free, and terminated by a small rounded callous disk. Tail, subcy-
lindrical, slightly compressed and attenuated. Skin smooth and soft.
SYN. — Anaides, BAIRD, Iconogr. Ency. II (1st ed.), 1849, 256.
OBSERV. — The affinities of this genus will place it near Pletliodon, in
a natural method, perhaps, even between the latter and Desmognatltus.
ANAIDES LUGUBRIS, Baird.
(Plate I, figs. 26-33.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Body rounded. A fold of the skin under the neck.
Tail, tapering; almost as long as the body and head together.
Inner finger and toe quite small. Uniform dark-olive above, light-
olive beneath. Sometimes scattered yellowish spots over the head,
sides, and back.
SYN. — Salamandra lugubris, HALLOW. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. IV, 1848,
126.
Anaides lugubris, BAIRD, Iconogr. Encycl. II (1st ed.), 1849, 256. — B. & Gr. in Proc.
Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 302.
Taricha lugubris, GRAY, Catal. Amph. Brit. Mus. Part II, 1850, 26.
DESCR. — The head is elongated ; very much depressed, flattened,
and, when viewed from above, has almost an elliptical appearance.
The snout is very prominent, protruding beyond the lower jaw. The
nostrils are elevated ; lateral, subterminal, and far apart. The eyes,
very prominent ; their diameter enters only once in the distance
between their anterior rim and the extremity of the snout. The
cleft of the mouth is large and undulating. The maxillary teeth are
proportionally large, especially on the lower jaw; they are lanceo-
BATRACHIAURODELA. 9
lated in shape ; very acute and thin. The palatine teeth are incon-
spicuous, rather blunt, disposed upon an open V-shaped figure,
the summit of which being directed backwards, whilst its branches
extend to the internal and posterior margin of the inner nostrils.
There are two elongated patches of minute teeth on the sphenoid,
closely approximating anteriorly and diverging slightly posteriorly,
where they are rounded and broadest. The cordiform or peltate
tongue fills the whole space of the inferior floor of the mouth ; it is
attached along its medial line, whilst its sides are perfectly free, as is
also, slightly, its tapering tip and its posterior bilobed expansion.
The neck is elongated, and slightly contracted ; a distinct and well-
marked gular fold may be observed on the specimens before us. It
will be important to ascertain whether that fold exists during life,
since its presence has baen contested by some writers.
The body is subfusiform, diminishing towards both extremities.
The sides of the abdomen are transversely folded, mayhap, an effect
of artificial contraction. The tail is almost as long as the head and
o
body together; it is subcylindrical, somewhat compressed, and taper-
ing away ; its upper and lower edges are rounded.
The limbs, generally speaking, are slender, the posterior ones a
little longer and stouter than the anterior. When the former are
brought forwards, and the latter backwards, alongside the body, the
toes of either are caused to meet with each other. The toes them-
selves are slender, entirely free, and terminated by a callous, disk-like
expansion, resembling, in that respect, the species of the genus (Edi-
pus. The anterior inner toe is quite small ; the third is the longest ;
the second, nearly equal in size to the fourth. The posterior inner
toe is small also ; the third and fourth are the longest, and almost
equal in length ; the second and fourth, again, are nearly equal.
The skin appears quite smooth ; when examined under the micro-
scope, however, it is found to contain a meshwork of minute, irregu-
larly stelliform bodies, as exhibited (though very imperfectly) in
figure 33, each stella having a hollow or clear centre.
The color, as preserved on specimens in alcohol, is of a uniform
dark-olive above, and light-yellow beneath.
Collected at San Francisco, California.
Plate I, fig. 26, represents Anaides lugitbri-s, size of life, in profile.
3
Of THB
falUV; SIT7]
10 B A TRACK I A.
Fig. 27, exhibits the under surface of the same animal.
Fig. 28, is a view of the head from 'above, showing the distance
between the eyes.
Fig. 29, a profile of the head, showing the undulated cleft of the
mouth.
Fig. 30, is a front view of the head.
Fig. 31, the inferior floor of the mouth, showing the tongue.
Fig. 32, the upper floor of the mouth, exhibiting the patches of
sphenoid teeth, the disposition of the vomero-palatine ones, and the
inner nostrils.
Fig. 33, a somewhat magnified view of a fragment of skin, exhibit-
ing the granules it contains. Under a higher power, these granules
are irregularly star-like in shape.
GENUS HEREDIA, GIRARD.
CAR. GEN. — Gapite subelHptico, et quam corpus ampliore ; rostro obtitso,
rotund if or mi, ultra maxillam inferiorem protrudenie. Otis rictu
obliquo, rectilineari. Dentibus maxillaribus minutissimis, vixque
visib'dibus. Dentibus vomero-palatinis in duplicem arctim acutam,
qui ex splienoidalis extremitate anteriore per palati marginem pos-
teriorem extendunt atque e naribus interioribus aperturam angustam
efficiunt, dispositis. Dentibus sphenoidalibus in duas areas oblongas
ordinatis. Lingua ampla, eUiptica, centrali quadam radice fixa,
tertiaque ejus parte posteriore libera manente. Oculis magnis.
Cruribus gracilibus, anterioribus longioribus ; digitis palmarum
quatuor, plantarum quinque, omnibus distinctis et attenuantibus.
Gauda subcylindrica, paulum compressa, in extremilate gradatim
minuente. Gate externa Icevi et molli.
GEN. CHAR. — Head, subelliptical, broader than the body. Snout,
blunt and rounded; protruding beyond the lower jaw. Cleft of
the mouth, oblique and rectilinear. Maxillary teeth exceedingly
minute, scarcely perceptible. Vomero-palatine teeth disposed upon
a double ogive, extending from the anterior extremity of the
sphenoid, along the posterior edge of the palatine floor, thus
making of the inner nostrils a circumscribed aperture. Sphenoid
teeth forming two elongated patches. Tongue large, elliptical,
BATRACHIAURODELA. H
attached by an elongated central pedicle, and free upon its poste-
rior third. Eyes large. Limbs slender; anterior ones, longest;
four fingers; five toes, all free, tapering. Tail subcylindrical,
slightly compressed, tapering towards the tip. Skin, exteriorly
smooth and soft. v
Svn—Iferedia, GRD. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VIII, 1856, 140.
OBSERV. — No genera are more alike in their external aspect than
Heredia and Anaides. To distinguish them we must have recourse to
the anatomy of the buccal cavity, although, one might recognize them
on a profile view of the head, where the cleft of the mouth would
become an important feature.
HEREDIA OREGOXENSIS, Girard.
(Plate I, figs. 18-25.)
CAR. SPEC. — Plicatura sulcollo nulla. Cauda subcyUndrica, gradatim
mtnuente, quam corpus et cnput simitl sumpta lonyiore. Pulmarum
et 2>I">it«rnm diyiti* tcnuibns et dlstinclis, inttrlorilus perparvis. Cute
Icevi. Colore supra fusco ; infra dariore.
SPEC. CHAR. — No fold of the .skin under the neck. Tail, subcylin-
drical, tapering, longer than the body and head together. Fingers
and toes slender and free ; inner one very small. Skin, smooth.
Color uniform dark-brown above, lighter beneath.
SrN.— Hiredla oreyoiiensis, GRD. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VIII, 1856, 141.
—HALLOW. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VIII, 1856, 235,
DESCR. — In its general physiognomy this species resembles strik-
ingly, Ana ides hujubris. It has the same general shape of the head,
neck, body, and limbs ; but the callous termination of the toes is
much less developed.
The head is quite prominent, depressed ; its upper surface sub-
concave ; elliptical in outline, when seen from above. The snout is
thick and subtruucated, overlapping the lower jaw. The nostrils are
12 BATRACHIA.
lateral and nearly terminal. The eyes are prominent, subcircular ;
the distance between their anterior rim and the extremity of the
snout is a little more than one of their diameter. The cleft of the
mouth is uniformly curved, and not undulating as in Anaides higit-
bris ; its angles extend almost to a vertical line drawn across the
posterior rim of the orbit. The maxillary teeth are very minute,
almost invisible to the naked eye. The palatine teeth are small, and
disposed upon two open curves, one on each side, extending from the
medial line of the palate almost to the jaw bone, leaving the inner
nostrils in advance of them. The sphenoid teeth are very minute ;
disposed upon a double patch. The tongue is proportionally large,
elliptical ; adhering along its medial line, and free on the sides, as also
posteriorly.
The neck is very distinct from the head and body. There is no
gular fold. The body itself is subcylindrical ; diminishing anteriorly
as well as posteriorly ; it is not plicated or folded laterally, though
the specimens exhibit vertical lines corresponding to the ribs. The
tail is subcylindrical ; rounded above and below ; a little longer than
the body and head together ; very much tapering, and terminating
into a point.
The anterior and posterior limbs are of equal length ; but the
latter are stouter, and when bent in an opposite direction, alongside
the body, they overlap each other the whole length of the carpus
and tarsus, including the toes. The inner toe, in both pair of
limbs, is quite small ; in the anterior pair, the third is the longest ;
the second is a little shorter than the latter, and the fourth, a little
longer than the first or inner one. The longest toe, in the posterior
limbs, is the third likewise ; the fourth being nearly equal to it ;
whilst the second is a little longer than the fourth, which itself is a
little more developed than the first or innermost.
The skin is perfectly smooth externally ; but, on being examined
under the microscope, it exhibits a meshwork of little stellated bodies
similar to those of Anaides lugubris, but proportionally larger.
According to a sketch from life, made by Mr. Drayton, the ground
color is milky-white, with crowded dots of reddish-brown. On the
specimens preserved in alcohol, however, the body, head, and limbs
are of a uniform dark-brown ; lighter beneath. Under a low magni-
fying power minute dots may be observed scattered all over the
surface.
BATRACHIAURODELA. . 13
Loc. — This species was collected at Discovery Harbor, Puget Sound
(Oregon), in May, 1841.
Plate I, fig. 18, represents Heredia oregonensis, size of life.
Fig. 19, exhibits the under surface of the same animal.
Fig. 20, the head, viewed from above, showing the interocular space.
Fig. 21, a profile of the head, exhibiting the gape of the mouth.
Fig. 22, front view of the head, showing the situation of the
nostrils.
Fig. 23, inferior floor of the mouth, and outline of the tongue.
Fig. 24, the upper floor of the mouth, with the inner nostrils and
disposition of its teeth.
Fig. 25, a fragment of skin, somewhat magnified, though not suffi-
ciently to exhibit the stellated shape of the little bodies it contains.
GENUS XIPHONURA, Tscn.
GEX. CHAR. — Head large, very much depressed ; its upper surface
convex. Vomerine teeth disposed upon a continued transverse
series, behind the inner nostrils ; no teeth on the sphenoid bone.
Maxillary teeth quite small, conical, and acute. Tongue large,
broad ; attached by most of its under surface, leaving only the
edges free. Feet proportionally stout and large. Toes rather short,
broad, and subpalmate or free ; callous at their tips. Tail elongated,
much compressed, and ensiform ; about the same length as the
body. Skin densely studded with minute granules.
STN.— Xiphonura, TSCH. in M6m. Soc. Sci. nat. Nench. II, 1838, 95.— GRAY, Catal.
Amph. Brit. Mus. II, 1850, 84.— DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. g6n. IX, 1854, 161.
OBSERV. — It has been deemed expedient to distinguish generically
from Amblystoma, in accordance with Tschudi and Gray, such species,
the tail of which is very compressed, and the skin granular ; adding
to these characters, a larger tongue and stouter limbs.
Besides the species hereinafter described, there is another belonging
to the genus Xiphonura, inhabiting the eastern range of the United
States, XipJionura jeffersoniana : the Salamandra jeffersoniana of Green,
or Triton niyer of Dekay.
4
14 B A T R A C H I A.
We are inclined to think that Triton ensatus, from California, de-
scribed in Eschscholtz's " Zoologischer Atlas," V, 1833, page 6, and
figured on Plate xxii of the same work, will constitute a third species
of this genus.
XIPHONURA TENEBROSA, Grd.
(Plate I, figs. 9-17.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Capite valde amplo et depresso. Cauda valde compressa
et corporis longilvdinem adequante. Digitis palmarum plantarumque
elongatis, complanatis. Cute densa et inconspicue granulata. Supra
rubro-fasca, maculis nigro-fuscis interspersis ; infra unicolori.
SPEC. CHAR. — -Head very broad and flat. Tail very much compressed,
equal to the body in length. Fingers and toes rather long and
flattened. Skin densely and inconspicuously granular. Color, dark
reddish-brown above, spotted with deeper brown ; beneath, unicolor.
SYN. — Amblystoma lenelrosum, B. & G. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 174.
DESCR. — The head forms about the sixth of the entire length ; it is
proportionally large, and well detached from the body ; depressed and
subconcave superiorly ; viewed from above, its shape is ovoidal, nar-
rowest forwards. The snout is rounded ; the nostrils are situated
high up on the sides, a little more distant from the anterior rim of the
orbit than the extremity of the snout. The eyes are of medium size ;
their anterior margin is one and a half of their diameter distant from
the extremity of the snout. The mouth is broadly cleft. The max-
illary teeth are proportionally small, acute, and conical ; disposed
upon one row ; somewhat more conspicuous on the lower than on the
upper jaw. The vomero-palatine teeth constitute a gently undulating
and transverse band, extending from the exterior edge of the inner
nostrils to the middle line of the vomer, where the bands from either
side meet, without being, however, in immediate contiguity. The
sphenoid is entirely deprived of teeth. The inner nostrils themselves
are broadly open and far apart. The tongue is very large, broad,
attached by most of its under surface ; its lateral margins alone being
free and slightly also anteriorly.
The neck is almost continuous with the body ; whilst the head is
rather detached from it, owing to the development of the temporal
region. A double gular fold may be observed. The body itself is
BATRACHIAURODELA. 15
subcylindrical. The tail is as long as the body, the head excluded ; it
is compressed, subquadrangular upon its anterior third, very thin pos-
teriorly, with the upper and lower edges quite sharp, and tapering
into a point.
The limbs are well developed ; the posterior ones are longer and
much stouter than the anterior. In bringing the latter backwards
and the former forwards alongside the body, the fingers and toes over-
lap each other. The digits are free, rather long and depressed. The
first or inner finger is somewhat shorter than the fourth or outermost ;
the second and third are the longest, and nearly equal in length. The
inner toe is the smallest ; the fifth is a little shorter than the second ;
the third is the longest; the fourth is somewhat shorter than the third.
The skin, though apparently smooth, is minutely and inconspicu-
ously granular to the touch, and when examined under the micro-
scope, it is found to contain a dense system of rounded granules, per-
haps glands, of various size.
The ground color is dark-reddish or chestnut-brown. The upper
surface of the head and body is maculated with small, irregular,
black spots. Minute yellowish dots are observed on the back, sides,
belly, inferior surface of the head and tail, and which seem to corre-
spond to the granules of the skin.
Loc. — The specimen figured and described was collected in Oregon.
Plate I, fig. 9, represents Xiplwnura tenebrosa, size of life.
Fig. 10, is the under surface of the same animal.
Fig. 11, the head, seen from above, showing the interocular space.
Fig. 12, a profile of the head, exhibiting the gape of the mouth.
Fig. 13, front view of the head, and situation of the nostrils.
Fig. 14, inferior floor of the mouth, and outline of the tongue.
Fig. 15, the upper floor of the mouth, with the inner nostrils and
the disposition of the vomero-palatine teeth.
Fig. 16, a fragment of the skin, taken on the dorsal region ; and
Fig. 17, a portion of the skin, taken on the abdominal region.
Figs. 16 and 17, being somewhat magnified.
TRIBUS II. BATRACHIA ANURA.
BODY short and thickish, without tail when adult. Head broad,
depressed. Lower jaw toothless. Eyes provided with an upper
and a lower lid. Tongue fleshy, either adhering by its entire under
surface, else more or less free posteriorly. Two pairs of limbs; pos-
terior ones longest. Skin naked or else scaleless, either smooth or
warty. No external auricular aperture, but oftentimes a tympanic
membrane. Vent round and terminal.
SYN. — Anoures, DUM. Zool. anal. 1806.— DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. VIII, 1841,
291.
Anura, FITZ. Syst. Kept, i, 1843, 34.
OBSERV. — The tailless Batrachians constitute a very natural group,
and easily distinguished from the caudate tribe, not merely because
the tail is absent in their full-grown state, but chiefly also by a shorter
and more compact body, more developed legs, especially the posterior
pair, which are adapted to the jump. When teeth exist upon the jaws,
they are found upon the upper jaw, never upon the lower one, which
is always toothless. Again, vomerine teeth are not constantly met
with, and as to sphenoid teeth, they are not known in this group.
FAM. KANIDAE.
TEETH to the upper jaw, and on the vomer also. Tongue oftentimes
bifurcated posteriorly. No parotid glands. Extremities of fingers
and toes tapering. Abdomen smooth.
SYN. — Ranidae, BONAP. Saggio Distr. metod. Anim. vertebr. 1831, 83.
Rnniformes, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. VIII, 1841. 317.
OBSERV. — It will always be easy to distinguish the frogs from the
toads, by the presence of teeth to the upper jaw as well as on the
vomer. This family is not to be so widely separated from the tree-
frogs, as observed further on.
B ATB A CHI A AXOUR A. 17
In revising the genera established by various authors,* we have
concluded to adopt Leptodactylus, Cystiynatltus, Pleurodema, and Crinia,
and to institute several others under the appellation of Ranidella,
Wayleria, and Kassina, two of which (Crinia and Kassina], had no
representatives in the collection made by the Exploring Expedition.
But, as Crinia is intimately related to Ranidella, it will be expected
that we should recall the characters by which we propose to distin-
guish it as a genus. They are the following :
CRIXIA, Tsch. Vomerine teeth few, constituting two groups, situated
at the posterior margin of the inner nostrils. Tongue entire ; ob-
long in shape. Tympanum inconspicuous. Eustachian tubes small.
Fingers and toes not palmated.
SYN.— Crinia, TSCH. in Mem. Soc. Sc. nat. Neuch. II, 1838, 78.— GRD. in Proc.
Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 420.
So far but one species of this genus has come to our knowledge,
Crinia yeoryiana, Tsch., a native of Australia.
GENCS RANA, LINN.
GEX. CHAR. — Teeth on the upper jaw. Vomerine teeth situated
between the inner nostrils. Tongue broad, oblong, narrowest an-
teriorly, bifurcated posteriorly, and free upon the posterior third of
its length. Tympanum distinct. Openings of Eustachian tubes
varying in size, according to the species. Fingers and toes subcir-
cular; the fingers always free; the toes more or less palmated.
Processus of the first cuneiform bone, obtuse. Transverse apophy-
sis of the sacral vertebra not dilated into pallets. Two internal or
external vocal bladders or sacs in the males.
SYN.— Rana, LINN. Syst. Nat, ed. VI*, 1748.— DUM & B. Erp. gen. VIII 1841
335.
OBSERV. — This genus, as here characterized, is restricted within
narrower limits than in the " Erpetologie ge"nerale."
* Proc. Acad. Nat. Sei. Philad. VI, 1853, 420.
jg B ATRAC HI A.
1. RANA AURORA, B. & G.
(Plate II, figs. 1-6.)
CAR. SPEC. — Dentibus vomerinis minutis, parum numerosis, in duos
acervos oblongos oblique inter interiores nares et paido post illas
dispositis. Lingua parva. Tympano modico. Palmis plantisque
planis ; palmarum dlgitis elongatis. Ultimo plantarum digitorum
articulo Ubero. Parvum corneum tuberculum in plantarum digiti
base apparet. Cute Icevi, minutissime porosa. Plicatura dorsali
glandulari in utroque latere.
SPEC. CHAR. — Vomerine teeth minute, few in number, disposed upon
two oblong groups, obliquely situated between and a little behind
the inner nostrils. Tongue small. Tympanum of medium size.
Hands and feet underneath smooth ; fingers elongated. Terminal
joint of toes free; a small horny tubercle at the base of the inner
toe. Skin smooth, minutely porous. Two dorsal glandular folds,
one on each side. Ground color above greenish-yellow, with golden
reflections, maculated with black. A dark area behind the eye ; a
yellow line along the upper jaw. Sides of abdomen and hind legs
reddish-orange ; beneath dull-yellowish, maculated. Digital mem-
brane purplish-violet.
SYN.— Rana aurora, B. & G-. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 174.
•
DESCR. — The head is very much depressed, broader than long, and
even upon its upper surface. The snout is subconical, protruding
beyond the lower jaw, and declivous from the nostrils to its tip. The
canthus rostralis is even with the surface of the snout. The nostrils
themselves are elongated, and situated at the upper part of the lateral
declivity of the snout, half way between the anterior margin of the
eye and the extremity of the muzzle ; the membranous flap which
exists upon their posterior edge is thickened into a minute knob,
lying in a little depression. The eyes are moderate in size, and cir-
cular, with the iris black. The margin of the upper lid is quite thin,
and exhibits several folds, one anteriorly, the others posteriorly. The
BATRACHIAANOURA. 19
tympanum is subcircular; its diameter being a little smaller than that
of the eye, and contained once and a half between the orbit and the
extremity of the snout. The mouth is very large ; the upper jaw-
being emarginated, and the tongue oblong, narrow, and moderately
forked. The inner nostrils are conspicuous and transversely elongated.
The vomerine teeth, situated between and somewhat behind the latter,
constitute two elliptical groups, inclined sideways. The openings of
the tubes of Eustachi are subcircular and proportionally large.
The body itself is elongated and depressed. The limbs are long
and slender, especially the hind ones, which are longer than the body
and head together, measured from their origin to the base of the
tarsus. The feet themselves are as long as the thighs. The fingers
are long and stout ; the innermost, or thumb, is a little longer than the
second, which is the shortest ; the outermost is about the same length
with the first. Their terminal phalanx is knob-shaped beneath,
resembling in that respect the tubercles which may be observed
under the articulations of the phalanges. The palm of the hand is
smooth ; two elongated and flattened horny disks may be seen upon
its base, large, though not prominent. The interdigital membrane
is deeply concave between the toes, and does not quite reach their
tips. Tubercles are observed under the articulations of the pha-
langes. The tarsus beneath is perfectly smooth, and provided only
with a small horny process at the base and outer edge of the first
toe.
The skin is smooth all over the body and limbs, above and below.
Two longitudinal zones of minute pores may be seen extending from
behind the orbits, immediately above the tympanum, to near the pos-
terior region of the body. „
The color above is greenish-yellow, with golden reflections along
the upper jaw, dorsal region, and on the limbs. Two dorsal black
bands extend over the series of pores. A narrow black vitta exists
on the line of the canthus rostralis, between the nostrils and the eye,
and another along the upper and posterior margin of the tympanum.
The sides of the abdomen, and sides of the legs also, are reddish-orange.
Black spots and dots are scattered all over the body, head, and limbs,
largest posteriorly. The upper lid, the snout, and the edge of the
upper jaw are dotted with black. The iris is golden. The membrane
uniting the toes is purplish or violet. Beneath, dull yellowish-green,
maculated with blackish on the inferior surface of the head, from the
20 B A T R A C H I A.
extremity of the lower jaw to the middle of the abdomen. The
limbs underneath show similar traces of maculas.
Specimens of this species were collected on Puget's Sound, Oregon,
in May, 1841.
We consider as belonging to the same species, a dozen of immature
individuals, collected on Columbia River, Oregon.
Plate II, fig. 1, represents Rana aurora, size of life, and in profile.
Fig. 2, is a profile of the head.
Fig. 3, an outline of the head, seen from above.
Fig. 4, an outline of the same region, from beneath.
Fig. 5, under surface of the right hand.
Fig. 6, under surface of the right foot.
2. RANA PRETIOSA, B. & G.
(Plate II, figs. 13-18.)
CAR. SPEC. — Tympano parvo. Palmis planis. Plantis granulatis.
Palmarum digitis gracilibus et gradatim minuentibus. Plantarum
digitis palmatis ; longissimi solummodo terminali articulo libero.
Parvo planoque corneo processu in interioris digiti base ; minuto,
conicali, metatarsali tuberculo, inter quartum et quintum digitum.
Cute scortea, minutis granulis in anteriori, majoribus in posteriori
dorsi parte, et in abdominis lateribus, cooperta. Dorsali pororum
serie in utroque latere. Qlandulari carina per longitudinem maxillae
superioris.
SPEC. CHAR. — Tympanum rather small. Hands smooth. Feet under-
neath granulated. Fingers slender and tapering. Toes webbed ;
terminal joint of longest one alone free. A small and flattened
horny process at the base of the inner toe, and a minute, conical,
metatarsal tubercle between the fourth and fifth toes. Skin leathery,
finely granular on the anterior portion of the back ; more coarsely so
posteriorly, and on the sides of the abdomen. Two depressed dorsal
BATRACHIAAXOURA. 21
series of pores, one on each. side. A glandular ridge along the
upper jaw.
STN.— • Rana preliosa, B. & G. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 378.
OBSERV. — Tlie chief feature, which will at once distinguish this
species from the preceding one, consists in its much shorter limbs,
especially the hind ones, together with the membrane of the feet which
extends to the very tip of the toes. The granulation of the body and
inferior surface of the feet, are other external characters which may
assist in distinguishing it from Sana aurora. The groups of vomerine
teeth approximate also closer together, and the tongue is free upon a
greater extent than in the latter species.
DESCR. — The head is a little broader posteriorly than long ; its
upper surface is subconcave. The snout is rounded, less prominent
than in R. aurora, and declivous on each side. The nostrils, which
are situated towards its upper surface, are elliptical in shape, and
placed midway between the extremity of the snout and the anterior
rim of the orbit. Immediately behind the nostrils may be observed a
little depression, into which fits a mammelliform tubercle, attached to
the membranes passing over the nostrils themselves. The eyes are
large and subcircular, and greater in diameter than half the distance
between them and the tip of the snout. The tympanum is subcircular
and smaller in diameter than the eye. The mouth is broad ; the
tongue large and subcordiform, broadest posteriorly, deeply emargi-
nated, and free upon the half of its length. The maxillary teeth are
very small ; inconspicuous though acute. The vomerine teeth con-
stitute two oblong groups, situated between and a little behind the
inner nostrils, nearer the latter and closer to one another, than in R.
aurora. The inner nostrils themselves are transversely oblong, rather'
small, whilst the tubes of Eustachi are quite large, and, therefore,
more conspicuous.
The body is rather short, and subcylindrical in shape. The legs,
as already stated, are proportionally much smaller than in R. aurora,
whilst the fingers are longer, more slender, and tapering. The inner
one is very fleshy upon its origin ; it is longer than the second, and
shorter than the third, which is the longest; the fourth, or outermost,
is slightly longer than the second. Two horny protuberances are
22 BATKACHIA.
seen at the base of the carpus ; they are quite flattened and not very
apparent. The palm of the hand exhibits two horny disks, otherwise
it is smooth; small tubercles exist under the articulations of the fingers.
The feet are very broad, proportionally broader than in R. aurora.
The membrane which unites the toes extends to their very tip, form-
ing a very open curve between each of them. The fourth, or longest
toe alone, stretches a little way beyond the edge of the web. Small,
but conspicuous tubercles, are observed under each digital articulation;
besides, there are very small granules along the toes and all over the
tarsus. A compressed horny tubercle is to be observed at the base
and outer edge of the inner toe, and a very small and conical one at
the base of the longest or fourth. The skin, at first sight, appears
smooth, but, on a careful examination, granules will be found on the
upper part of the head, down the back and sides, and over the limbs ;
more developed, however, posteriorly, on the region of the coccyx and
thighs. It is the same granulation which we have noticed under the
feet. The inferior surface of the head, belly, and inner side of the
legs, is perfectly smooth.
The upper surface of the head and snout exhibits small black spots.
A black line extends from the nostrils to the eyes, and from the pos-
terior rim of the orbit to near the shoulder, exists an elongated, pos-
teriorly tapering, deep-brown band, margined with black, and covering
entirely the tympanum, such as may be observed in Rana temporaria
of Europe, and Rana sylvatica of the United States.
The upper region of the body and limbs is yellowish-brown; irregu-
larly rounded black blotches and dots may be seen along the dorsal
region between the glandulous ridges ; these series or zones are them-
selves of a lighter hue, lined above and below with irregular black
dots. The sides of the abdomen are greenish-brown or dusky. The
upper surface of the limbs are blotched in the same manner as the
back, more conspicuously upon the hind ones. The color beneath is
dull yellowish-white, marmorated anteriorly with brown.
In the immature state the dorsal blotches are very distinctly marked,
subcircular or oblong, forming three irregular series, on a ground
color that has much less of the red than in the adult. Beneath of a
soiled white. The granulation of the skin is as strongly marked as
in the adult.
The color, as described here in the young as well as in the adult, is
taken from specimens preserved in alcohol, no sketch having been
made from life.
BATRACHIAANOURA. 23
All the specimens of this species were collected 011 Puget's Sound,
Oregon.
- -
Plate II, fig. 13, represents Rana pretiosa, size of life.
Fig. 14, a profile view of the head.
Fig. 15, the head, seen from above.
Fig. 16, the head, from beneath.
Fig. 17, under surface of the left hand.
Fig. 18, under surface of the left foot.
3. RANA DRAYTONI, B. & G.
(Plate II, figs. 19-24.)
CAR. SPEC. — Tijmpano oUongo et amplo. Palmis ei plantis plani* ;
digitis pahnarum robu-sfis. Cruribus permagnis. Femori et tibia
tantummodo non cequalibus, et dimidiam corporis longitudinem fere
attingentibus. Plantarum digitis ad articulum terminalem usque
pahnatis. Oblongo et cnrneo processu in bat* primi plantarum digiti,
nee non tubercido circulars et rudimentari in base tarsi ex adverse
lon<ji**imi plantarum digiti. Cute supra minutissime gramdata.
Plicatura glandulari super oris anf/ulnm, et ampla carirta in
utroque later e. • «
SPEC. CHAR. — Tympanum oblong and rather large. Hands and feet
underneath smooth ; fingers stoutish. Legs very large. Femur
and tibia nearly equal, about half the length of the body. Toes
webbed to the terminal joints. An oblong horny process at the
base of the first toe, and a round rudimentary tubercle at the base
of the tarsus, opposite the longest toe. Skin finely granular above.
A glandular fold above the angle of the mouth, and a broad ridge
on each side.
SYN.— Rana draytonii, B. & G. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 174.
OBSERV. — By its hind legs this species is intermediate between R.
aurora and R. predosa, since these organs are very much developed, as
is the case in the former, and the toes webbed almost to their tips, as
in the latter.
24 B A T R A C H I A.
DESCR. — The head is proportionally large ; flattened above and de-
clivous on the sides. The snout is subtruncated ; thicker than in
both R. aurora and R. pretiosa. The length of the head is equal to
its width ; seen from above, its shape is subtriangular. The nostrils
are oblong and situated obliquely near the upper part of the snout,
nearer to its tip than to the anterior margin of the eye. The eyes
themselves are quite large ; their diameter is nearly equal to the dis-
tance between their anterior margin and the extremity of the snout.
The upper lid is anteriorly and posteriorly folded, more conspicuously
posteriorly. The tympanum is circular or subcircular ; smaller than
the eye ; equal in diameter to the distance between the orbit and the
nostrils. The tongue is thick, oblong, and elongated ; free upon its
posterior third. The groups of vomerine teeth are very conspicuous,
oblong ; situated obliquely between the inner nostrils and the medial
line of the palate. The inner nostrils themselves are comparatively
small, transversely elongated. The openings of the tubes of Eustachi
are subcircular, and slightly larger than the inner nostrils.
The body is a little more than twice the length of the head, and at-
tenuated posteriorly. The anterior limbs and fingers are rather stout,
the latter swollen at their tip, instead of being pointed, as in R. pre-
tiosa. The carpus, beneath, is smooth ; two flattened and elongated,
quite large disks, may be seen at its base. The first finger is very
much swollen upon its first half, and conspicuously longer than the
second, which is the shortest ; the third is the longest, and the fourth
about the length of the first. Round and stout tubercles exist under
each digital articulation. The hind limbs are longer than twice the
length of the body, the head excepted. The tibia being itself longer
than the femur. The toes are subcircular and webbed to almost
their very tip, which is swollen in the same manner as the fingers.
An oblong arid large tubercle may be observed exteriorly at the base
of the first toe, and a small rounded one at the base of the fourth or
longest toe. Large tubercles exist under the articulations, and very
minute granules under the metatarsus.
The skin above is apparently smooth, but, on examining it with a
somewhat magnifying power, it is found to be densely studded with
minute warts and granules of various magnitude, extending over the
head as far as the nostrils. Beneath, the skin is perfectly smooth,
except the posterior portion of the thighs, which is covered by a pave-
ment of irregularly polygonal glands.
BATRACHIAANOURA. £5
The ground color is olivaceous ; the body and limbs above, macu-
lated with large brownish-black blotches, the latter much larger on
the hind legs ; the whole surface, from the snout to the tips of the
fingers and toes, is minutely dotted. The glandulous dorsal ridges
appear almost black by the accumulation of small spots and dots.
Faint traces of a narrow stripe exist between the eyes and the nostrils.
The belly is unicolor ; the margin of the lower jaw and the hind legs
being inconspicuously maculated.
Loc. — This species is a native of California.
Plate II, fig. 19, represents Eana draytoni, size of life.
Fig. 20, is the head, viewed in profile.
Fig. 21, the head, seen from above.
Fig. 22, the head, seen from beneath.
Fig. 23, under surface of left hand.
Fig. 24, under surface of left foot.
4. RANA MARITISIA, Risso.
(Plate II, figs. 7-12.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Diameter of tympanum nearly equal to the width of
the upper lid. Interocular space narrow. Interdigital membrane
deeply emarginated. Two glandular dorsal ridges; one on each side.
Body above covered with small pustules, largest upon the middle
of the back.
SYN — Sana maritima, Risso, Hist. nat. Europ. merid. III. 1826, 92.
OBSERV. — In recording this species as distinct from Eana viridis,
with which it has been identified by Dumeril and Bibron, and from
Eana temporaria, which it was labelled by the scientific corps of the
United States Exploring Expedition, we consider it our duty to state
that we are not yet fully satisfied of its real identity with Risso's
species. As it is, however, the one to which it comes nearest, we
have not deemed it expedient to multiply the names, already so
numerous, which have been bestowed upon European frogs. Risso
7
26 BATRACHIA.
only describes the coloration of his species, failing to point out the
organic characters by which it could be distinguished from either
Rana viridis, Rana esculenta, and Rana temporaria. But as far as the
description of that author goes, it will apply almost strictly to the
specimens now before us.
We regret not having at our disposal sufficient materials to institute
a thorough comparison between this species and Rana viridis and Rana
temporaria. Taking the work of the French herpetologists just men-
tioned, for our guidance, we find that it differs from Rana viridis, in
having the vomerine teeth disposed upon two groups, instead of form-
ing a transverse row. That it differs further from the latter by a
snout more truncated, which brings the nostrils nearer to the end of
the snout than the anterior rim of the orbit ; by the interocular space,
which is proportionally smaller ; by the diameter of the tympanum,
which is smaller that that of the eye ; by the tip of the fingers and
toes, which are slightly swollen, instead of being tapering ; by the
toes themselves, which are rather depressed, whilst they are said to be
cylindrical in Rana viridis.
Again, it differs from Rana temporaria by the position of the groups
of vomerine teeth, which in Rana temporaria are situated more poste-
riorly with regard to the inner nostrils. It differs further from the
latter in having the fourth toe but one-fourth longer than the third,
and the fifth similar to that of Rana viridis. The tympanum is a
little more than half the length of the upper lid, whilst in Rana tem-
poraria it is three-fourths of that same length, and instead of being
smooth as in the latter, it is posteriorly folded as in Rana viridis. The
interocular space, finally, is much broader in Rana temporaria than in
Rana maritima.
With such a state of things, we have considered it important to the
progress of science to give such figures as the state of preservation of
specimens would allow, accompanied by such a description as may
enable future observers to establish a more thorough comparison be-
tween it and the species they may be called upon to study and describe.
DESCR. — The head is subtriangular, broader than long, anteriorly
subtruncated, rounded from the nostrils to the margin of the upper
jaw. The nostrils themselves are situated near the upper surface of
the snout, and nearer its extremity than the anterior rim of the orbit.
They are elongated, resembling a depressed ellipsis, obliquely placed
BATEACHIAANOURA. 27
upon the snout ; their membrane, posteriorly, is provided with a very
small knob. The sides of the snout, behind and somewhat below the
nostrils, are slightly depressed or subconcave. The eyes are large
and prominent ; their diameter is almost equal to the distance between
their anterior margin and the extremity of the snout. The tympanum
is subcircular; its diameter being equal to the distance extending from
the eyes to the nostrils. The tongue is large. The vomerine groups
of teeth are placed exactly between the inner nostrils, a little nearer
the latter than they are to each other upon the medial line. The
inner nostrils themselves are very conspicuous, subelliptical, one-third
smaller than the openings of the Eustachian tubes, which are subcir-
cular.
The body is subcylindrical; the dorsal region depressed. The elbow
and knees overlap each other considerably, when brought along the
side of the abdomen. The second and fourth fingers are equal in
length, and shorter than the innermost; the fifth is the longest of all.
They are subdepressed ; swollen at the tip, and provided under each
articulation with a somewhat conspicuous tubercle. Two contiguous
and flattened disks are observed at the base of the carpus, which other-
wise is smooth. The toes, like the fingers, are slightly swollen upon
their tips, and provided underneath with tubercles corresponding to
each articulation. The under surface of the tarsus is finely reticula-
ted ; a flattened tubercle exists exteriorly to the base of the first toe,
and a small circular rudimentary one at the base of the fifth. The
membrane uniting the toes is deeply emarginated between each digit.
The membrane appears to extend to the middle of the last phalanx,
except in the case of the fourth or longest toe, where almost two pha-
langes may be seen projecting beyond that membrane.
The snout is perfectly smooth. The space between the eyes and
the eyelids above, appear as if finely reticulated, especially the latter.
The glandulous ridges on each side of the back are variable in width.
The dorsal space between these ridges is irregularly spread over with
tubercles, varying in size, none of which being very large ; the skin
there presents the same appearance as the surface of the glandulous
ridge, and the upper inner half of the eyelid. The sides of the abdo-
men are minutely glandulous, as also the upper portion of the legs.
A very narrow glandulous ridge may be observed immediately above
the tympanum detaching itself from the dorsal one, and descending
obliquely towards the shoulders, where it meets a transverse glandu-
lous and thicker ridge, extending from the angle of the mouth beyond
28
BATRACHIA.
the insertion of the fore-limbs. Beneath, the posterior half of the
abdomen and thighs are glandulous, whilst the anterior half appears
rather smooth. The lower jaw is finely reticulated.
The ground color, as preserved in alcohol, is greenish-brown. One
large specimen reflects a rather reddish tint on the upper regions.
There is a dorsal lighter vitta, on each side of which there being extant
a series of large deep brownish-black spots, few in number. Another
series of similar, but smaller spots, is occasionally seen on the sides
beneath the glandulous ridges, and alternating with the dorsal series :
a few spots on the fore and hind legs, assuming upon the latter the
shape of transverse bars. A narrow black vitta extends from the tip
of the snout across the nostrils to the eye. The margin of both jaws
is maculated. An elongated spot is observed at the angle of the mouth.
A black stripe along the forearm, anteriorly. Lower portion of sides,
yellow, vermiculated, and spotted with deep black. An irregular lon-
gitudinal black band along the anterior margin of the hind limbs.
Beneath, dull yellowish, maculated or vermiculated with brown or
black.
LOG. — Specimens of this species were collected on the Island of
Madeira.
Plate II, fig. 7, represents Rana maritima, size of life.
Fig. 8, a side view of the head.
Fig. 9, the head, seen from above.
Fig. 10, the head, seen from beneath.
Fig. 11, under surface of the left hand.
Fig. 12, under surface of the left foot.
GENUS LEPTODACTYLUS, FITZ.
GEN. CHAR. — Vomerine teeth disposed upon two transverse series,
each of which constituting either an angular arch, or a regular
curve, and situated behind the inner nostrils. Tongue slightly
notched posteriorly. Tympanum very conspicuous. Toes long and
slender ; either provided with a basal rudimentary membrane, or
entirely free.
SYN.— Lfptodactylus, FITZ. N. Class. Kept. 1826, 64.— GED. in Proc. Acad. Nat.
Sci. Philad. VI, 1853; 420.
BATRACHIAANOURA. 29
OBSERV. — Besides the species described below, the genus Leptodactyltu
will include Rana labyrin&ica of Spix, and likewise Rana typhonia, the
affinities of which were already known to Fitzinger himself.
1. LEPTODACTTLUS OCELLATUS, Grd.
(Plate III, figs. 1-6.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Yomerine teeth disposed upon angular arches. Tongue
cordiform, free posteriorly upon one-third of its length, and slightly
emargiuated at both extremities. Toes with a rudimentary, basal,
and marginal membrane. Skin with indistinct longitudinal dorsal
folds ; otherwise, smooth. Greenish-brown on the head and back ;
yellowish-brown on the sides and legs, with series of black maculae.
A post-orbital vitta tapering to a point towards the axilla. Margin
of the jaws maculated with black and white.
SYX. — Rana ocdlata, Lixx. Mus. Adolph. Friedr. II, 39; Syst. Nat. ed. Xm I,
1758, 211, et ed. XIIs I, 356.— GM. Linn. Syst, Nat. ed. XIIP III, 1793, 1052.—
SCHX. Hist. Ainph. I, 1799, 116.— SHAW, Gen. Zool. Ill, 1802, 103, PI. 34.— BAUD.
Hist, Nat. Rain. Gren. Crap. 1803, 61, PI. xix ; Hist. Nat. Kept. VIII, 1804, 118.—
MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 176.— FITZ. N. Class. Kept, 1826, 64.— GRAY. Delic.
Mus. Zool. Yratislav. Butr. 1829, 42.
Leptodactylus serialfs, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 421.
OBSERY. — We have not referred to all the synonyms of this species
as given in the " Erpetologie generale," since we are not satisfied of
their identity. In making the above selections, our purpose is to call
the attention upon this subject.
DESCR. — The head is elongated, longer than broad, depressed, and
when seen from above, ovoid in its outline ; the snout being perfectly
round. Its upper surface is even, slightly sloping. The phrenic
region is subconcave laterally ; the canthus rostralis being almost
level with the upper surface of the snout. The nostrils are much
nearer the margin of the upper jaw than the anterior rim of the eyes:
they are comparatively small and subcircular. The eyes are of
medium size, subcircular ; their diameter being equal to the distance
between them and the nostrils. The upper lid is quite smooth, very
thin upon its margin, and projecting considerably over the eyeball.
The width of the interocular space is smaller than the diameter of the
8
30 BATRACHIA.
eye, of about one-third, consequently narrower than the upper lid.
The tympanum is subcircular, very conspicuous, situated above the
angle of the mouth. Its diameter is equal to the interocular space, that
is to say, considerably smaller than the eye. The mouth is deeply cleft.
The tongue is cordiform, narrowest anteriorly, and slightly einargi-
nated at both extremities, the posterior one of which being free for
about one-third of the length of that organ. The inner nostrils are
quite large ; irregularly and transversely oblong. The vomerine teeth
are placed behind the latter ; the arches which they constitute are
almost contiguous and angular, instead of forming an open curve, as
in the following species. The openings for the Eustachian tubes are
as large as the inner nostrils, and irregular also in their outlines.
The body is raniform, elongated. The legs are proportionally well
developed ; the anterior ones, when brought backwards alongside the
body, extend beyond the groins, for the whole length of the fingers :
these are subcylindrical and tapering, the first being longer than the
second. They are provided under their articulations with small coni-
cal tubercles. The palm of the hand is subtuberculous. There are
two metacarpal horny disks, the innermost oblong, and situated at the
base of the first finger. The hind legs are longer than the body and
head together, for the whole length of the feet. A membranous fold
may be seen lining the inner edge of the tarsus. There are two meta-
tarsal tubercles, the outer one quite small and conical, the other is
more elongated, and placed interiorly at the base of the first toe. The
toes themselves are slender, tapering to a point, and free, save a rudi-
mentary membrane at their base, and an indistinct fold along their
edge. The sole of the feet is smooth. Conspicuous tubercles are
observed under each of the articulations of the toes.
The skin is smooth ; there are four longitudinal narrow ridges on
each side of the back, exhibiting, however, no roughness about them.
The ground color of the head and back is greenish-brown ; on the
sides and upper part of legs, yellowish-brown. A blackish vitta is ob-
served on each side of the snout, along the line of the canthus ros-
tralis ; behind the eyes the said vitta widens and passes around the
tympanum, hence, tapering towards the shoulder. The margin of
the jaws is spotted black and white. A large subtriangular patch
upon the eyelid. The tympanum 'is deep-chestnut, margined with
dull-yellow. Series of small black spots may be seen along the back,
between the cutaneous ridges, the exterior one of which being whitish,
BATRACHIAANOTJRA. 3^
the others partaking of the hue of the region to which they belong.
The fore legs exhibit a series of black spots upon both their anterior
and posterior surface, united on the arm properly so called, whilst on
the hind legs these series of spots assume a transverse aspect. The
posterior portion of the thighs is vermiculated. Beneath, the color is
of a uniform dull-yellow.
Specimens were collected at Rio de Janeiro, in 1839, when a draw-
ing from life was made by Mr. Dray ton.
Plate III, fig. 1, represents Leptodactylus ocellatus, size of life.
Fig. 2, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 3, the head, seen from above.
Fig. 4, the head, seen from beneath.
Fig. 5, under surface of right hand.
Fig. 6, under surface of left foot.
2. LEPTODACTYLUS CALIGIXOSUS, Grd.
CHAR. SPEC. — Dentibus vomerinis in curvis regidaribus dispositis.
Lingua subeUiptica, elongata, in duabus extremitatibus letiter incisa.
Plantarum rligitis, rudimenfarin, basali, et marginali membrand
mumfis. Cute Iceri ; juvenes in ntroqne dorsi latere plicaturas
lonijitudinales exliibent. Colore rubro-fusco ; supra macuUe nigris
disoletis conspersis, in posterlorlbus cruribus conspicuoribus. Post-
oculare vitta trans tympanum porrecta.
CHAR. SPEC. — Vomerine teeth disposed upon regular curves. Tongue
subelliptical, elongated, slightly notched at both extremities. Toes
with a rudimentary, basal, and marginal membrane. Skin smooth ;
traces of longitudinal dorsal folds in the young. Reddish-brown
with obsolete blackish macula? on the back, more conspicuous on
the hind limbs. A subcordiform occipital spot. A postocular vitta
stretching beyond the tympanum.
SYX.— Leptodactylus caliyinosus, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI 1853
422.
DESCR.— This species is allied to the preceding one. Its head is
conical when seen from above, depressed, as broad as long, constitu-
32 B A T R A C H I A.
ting one-third of the whole length. The snout is rounded ; its upper
surface is smooth, and slightly sloping towards the snout. The
phrenic region, laterally, is more depressed than in Leptodactylus ocella-
tus, thus causing the canthus rostralis to be more apparent. The
nostrils are small, oblong, and nearer the margin of the upper jaw
than the anterior rim of the eye. The eyes, themselves, are of
medium size, subcircular ; their diameter being equal to the distance
between them and the nostrils. The upper lid is smooth ; its exterior
margin thin, but much less projecting over the eye than in Leptodac-
tylus ocellatus. The interocular space is about equal to the width of
the upper lid, but smaller than the diameter of the tympanum, and a
little wider than the radius of the orbit. The tympanum itself is
circular, very conspicuous; its diameter being about two-thirds that
of the eye. The mouth is large, and the tongue, thickish, subelliptical,
but slightly free posteriorly, and likewise slightly emarginated upon
its extremities. The symphysis of the lower jaw is provided with
a tubercle or knob fitting the anterior emargination of the tongue
as also a depression in the upper jaw. The inner nostrils are sub-
circular, and of medium size. The vomerine teeth, situated behind
the latter, constitute two regular arches, more distant from each other
than in Leptodactylus ocellatus. The openings of the Eustachian tubes
are very conspicuous, and longitudinally subelliptical.
The body is raniform, elongated, subcylindrical. The anterior legs
are proportionally shorter than in Leptodactylus ocellatus, although
the fingers project a little beyond the groins when bent backwards
alongside the body. The first finger is much longer than the second,
which is equal to the fourth. The fingers, themselves, are subcylin-
drical, tapering, and provided with small tubercles under the articula-
tions of their phalanges. The palm of the hand is smooth; the ex-
ternal metacarpal disk is much less conspicuous than the internal
one, which is quite developed and oblong-shaped. The hind legs have
the same proportional development as in Leptodactylus ocellatus; they
are longer than the body and head together, of the whole length of
the feet. The thighs are much stouter than in Leptodactylus ocellatus.
The tarsus is provided with a similar membranous fold along its
inner edge. There is an outer, large, metatarsal, very much de-
pressed disk, and a rather small tubercle at the base of the inner toe.
The sole of the feet is smooth. The toes are subcylindrical, slender,
tapering, and provided under their articulations with small tubercles.
BATRACHIAANOURA. 33
A rudimentary membrane may be observed at their base, as also an
inconspicuous fold along their margins.
The color is uniform reddish-brown, lighter beneath than above,
with a light line along the middle region of the back and thighs.
This species was collected about Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, along with
the preceding species.
GENUS CYSTIGNATHUS, WAGL.
GEN. CHAR. — Vomerine teeth disposed upon a transverse or oblique
row, more or less interrupted in the middle, and situated between
the inner nostrils or behind them. Tongue circular, subcircular, or
subcordiform ; posteriorly entire and attached by its whole surface,
or slightly free behind. Tympanum not always distinct. Toes
moderate, bordered by a membranous fold, or inconspicuously
webbed at their base.
*, WAGL. Nat. Syst. Amph. 1830, 202.— GRD. in Proc. Acad.
Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 420.
OBSERV. — CystignatJius macroglossus, DUM. & BIBR., from Montevideo;
G. gracilis, DUM. & BIBR., from the same locality, and G. roseus, DUM.
& BIBR., from Chile, will remain in the present genus.
1. CYSTIGXATHUS NEBULOSUS, Grd.
(Plate III, figs. 19-23.)
CAR. SPEC. — Dentibus vomerinis in duos acervos elongatos, oblique inter
inter lores nares, diftpoeitig. Tympano inconspicuo. Plantarum digi-
tis depressis, et plicaturd membranea marginalia. Duo luberculi in
mctutarso ; in tarso verd, plicatura membranea. Glandulis lumbalis
nullis. Cute minute (jranulata. Supra pallide fusco, albi* punc-
tulis comperso, colore rufnlo obscurato. Macula subtriangulari nigro-
fusca in occipite sita, atque post ocidis vitta ejusdem coloris. fbste-
rioribiis cruribus rubro-fusco fasdatis. Infra imicolori.
SPEC. CHAR. — Vomerine teeth disposed upon two elongated groups,
obliquely situated between the inner nostrils. Tympanum incon-
spicuous. Toes depressed, margined by a membranous fold. Two
34 BATRACHIA.
metatarsal tubercles. A ridge along the inner side of the tarsus. No
lumbar glands. Skin minutely granular. Above light-brown, dotted
with white and clouded with reddish. A subtriangular, occipital,
deep-brown patch. A postocular vitta of the same color. Hind
limbs barred with reddish-brown. Beneath unicolor.
gYN. — Cystiynathus nebulosus, GHD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 422.
DESCR. — The head forms the third of the length, the limbs excluded.
It is much depressed, as long as broad, subelliptical when viewed from
above. Its upper surface is subcpncave, and the canthus rostralis not
very prominent. The nostrils are small, elongated, obliquely situated
towards the origin of the anterior declivity of the snout; they are equi-
distant between the extremity of the upper jaw and the anterior rim of
the orbits ; the snout itself being quite prominent. The phrenic region
is but slightly concave. The eyes are prominent, elliptical, with
their longitudinal diameter equal to the three-fourths of the rostral
distance, which extends from their anterior margin to the extremity
of the upper jaw. The surface of the eyelid is granular like the head
and body, and its external margin thickish and smooth. The inter-
ocular space is equal to the greatest width of the eyelid. The tym-
panum is not seen exteriorly. The mouth is broad ; the upper jaw
being slightly emarginated, whilst the lower one is provided with a
small knob upon its symphysis. The tongue is large, thick, smooth,
subcircular, slightly notched posteriorly, and free upon a very small
extent. The inner nostrils are subcircular and proportionally large.
The elongated groups of vomerine teeth are obliquely situated between
the inner, nostrils, at a little distance from the anterior edge of the
latter openings. The Eustachian tubes are small and quite incon-
spicuous.
The body is elongated, raniform, depressed, narrowest posteriorly.
The legs are slender and elongated ; the anterior pair extending
beyond the vent when bent backwards. The fingers are depressed, free,
tapering, and rounded upon their extremities ; the first one is longer
than the second. The under aspect of their articulations is provided
with small and conical tubercles. The palm of the hand is minutely
granular. There are two large metacarpal tubercles, the outermost
being considerably the largest. The hind legs are longer than the
body and head together, of the whole length of the fourth finger.
The heels meet together at the coccygeal region. The tarsus exhibits
B A T R A C H I A A X 0 U R A. 35
a slight ridge along its inner margin. The toes are depressed like the
fingers, margined with a membranous fold, tapering, rounded upon
their extremities, and provided with small and conical, subarticulary
tubercles. The sole of the feet exhibits a few granules towards the
base of the toes. The metatarsal tubercles are comparatively small ;
the innermost being the largest.
The skin is minutely granular above, on the head as well as on the
back ; beneath, it is nearly smooth, some obsolete granules being
occasionally seen.
The ground color above is light-brown, clouded with reddish-brown,
and dotted with white along the dorsal region. There is a postocular,
chestnut-brown baud, extending beyond the shoulders. On the occi-
put may be seen a large, subtriangular, deep-brown patch stretching
over the posterior two-thirds of the eyelid. The legs are transversely
barred with reddish-brown. The inferior surface is unicolor, whitish
under the head and throat, greyish on the abdomen, and reddish on
the legs. The fingers and toes are yellowish.
Specimens of this species were collected in the neighborhoods of
Valparaiso, Chile.
Plate III, fig. 19, represents Oyntignathtw nebulosus, size of life.
Fig. 20, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 21, the head, seen from above.
Fig. 22, under surface of the right hand.
Fig. 23, under surface of the right foot.
2. CYSTIGNATHUS PARVULUS, Grd.
(Plate III, figs. 34-38.)
CAR. SPEC. — Dentibm r«///< /•////* in serie.m irnnxrcwm, in media rix
mterruptam, oblique po*t Interiores nares, dispositis. Tympano con-
XJHCUO. Cruribus (jrac'dibus. Supra fuho-fusco, cum angusta vitta
dormli castaneae coloris ex naao usque ad medium corporis porrecta.
Infra uiiicolori.
SPEC. CHAR. — Yomerine teeth disposed upon a transverse series,
scarcely interrupted in the middle, and obliquely situated behind
the inner nostrils. Tympanum distinct. Limbs slender. Yellow-
3(3 BATRACHIA.
ish-brown above, .with a dorsal, deep-chestnut, narrow band, extend-
ing from the snout to the middle of the body. Beneath unicolor.
SYN. — Cystignathus parvulus, GBD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 422.
DESCR. — The species we are now going to describe, is one of the
smallest of the ranine group, assuming that the specimen before us is
a full-grown one, and which seems plausible from its general aspect.
Its entire length is scarce seven-eighths of an inch, the head forming
about the third of that length. Seen from above, the head is subtri-
angular or rather semi-elliptical, being almost uniformly rounded from
the angle of the mouth to the extremity of the snout. It is one-fourth
broader than long. Its upper surface is gradually sloping towards the
margin of the upper jaw, giving it a wedge-shaped appearance. It is
furthermore provided with a shallow groove, quite narrow between the
eyes, widening upon the snout, where it is limited on either side by
the canthus rostralis, itself, however, not very prominent. The nos-
trils are rather large, circular, and nearer the tip of the snout than the
anterior rim of the orbits. The eyes are of medium size, subelliptical,
with their longitudinal diameter equal to the rostral distance. The
interocular space is much greater than the ocular diameter. The
tympanum is of medium size, subcircular ; its diameter being smaller
than that of the eye. It is situated above, and a little posterior to the
angle of the mouth. The mouth itself is not deeply — though broadly
— cleft. The tongue is rather small and subcircular ; attached by its
whole under surface. The inner nostrils are proportionally large,
subelliptical, and situated towards the edges of the roof of the palate.
The vomerine teeth constitute two very narrow, approximated series,
situated obliquely behind the inner nostrils ; the outer extremity of
each series being slightly curved and close to the inner edge of the
orbit. The openings of the Eustachian tubes are but half the size of
the inner nostrils, though very conspicuous.
The body is raniform, broader than deep, and narrowest posteriorly.
The legs are slender, but proportionally well developed ; the anterior
ones will reach the groins when stretched backwards alongside the
body. The fingers are depressed, slender, and tapering, provided
under their articulations with small tubercles. The palm of the hand
is smooth ; there are two metacarpal tubercles, one at the base of the
first finger, the other opposite the third. The first finger is longer
than the second, which is equal to the fourth. The hind legs are a
BATRACHIAANOURA. 37
little longer than the body and head together. The toes are slender
and depressed, bordered by a membranous fold ; their articulations
being provided underneath with small tubercles. The sole of the feet
is smooth. There are two small metatarsal tubercles.
The skin is smooth, without asperities, tubercles, or glands of any
kind.
The color is light-yellowish or reddish-brown above. A chestnut-
brown vitta extends from the snout over the nostrils, to the anterior
rim of the eye. Behind the eye, the vitta is superiorly margined
with white, and runs obliquely towards the occiput, hence, diverging
towards the sides, terminates about the middle of the trunk. The
.legs are barred with blackish-brown. Beneath, the color is uniform
reddish-brown ; the posterior part of the thighs and legs assuming
a more intense hue. On each side may be seen, proceeding from the
belly, a blackish-brown, elongated, and tapering patch, inclined ante-
riorly towards the chest.
Found at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Plate III, fig. 34, represents Cystignathus parvulus, size of life.
Fig. 35, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 36, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 37, under surface of right hand.
Fig. 38, under surface of left foot.
GENUS PLEURODEMA, TSCH.
GE>T. CHAR. — Vomerine teeth disposed upon two oblong groups, situa-
ted between the inner nostrils. Tongue subcircular, slightly emar-
ginated, or entire posteriorly. Tympanum indistinct. Toes either
entirely free or else provided with a rudimentary membrane at their
base or along their edges. Skin pustulous or granular ; sometimes
a large lumbar gland on each side.
STN. — Pleurodema, Tscn. Mem. Soc. Sc. nat, Neuch. II, 1838, 84. — BELL, Zool.
Voy. Beagle. V, 1843. 36.— GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 420.
OBSERV. — Contrary to the opinion of Dumeril & Bibron, and in
accordance with that of Bell, we adopt the genus Pleurodema of
Tschudi, to include such species of the genus Cystignathus, as under-
10
38 -B A T E A C H I A.
stood by the French herpetologists, which are provided with large
and conspicuous lumbar glands. It is upon that character, exclusively
to any other, that Thomas Bell reinstated the genus Pleurodema in
the " Zoology of the Voyage of the Beagle."
Although it should be found that Pleurodema has a greater affinity
with Cystignathus than with Bombinator — a fact which would bear
upon its systematic position — yet there is no sufficient ground to com-
bine its species with Cystignathus in one and the same group.
The species of this genus known to the present day are : PLEURODEMA
BUFONIUM, Bell ; P. DARWINII, Bell ; P. NODOSA Grd. ( Cystignathus
nodosus, DUM & BIBR.), and those described further on.
1. PLEURODEMA BIBRONI, Tsch.
(Plate IV, figs, 33-38.)
SPEC. CHAR. — An ovoid lumbar gland on each side. Tympanum not
apparent. Toes margined with a membranous fold. Two meta-
tarsal tubercles. A cutaneous tarsal ridge. Skin generally smooth,
occasionally pustulous.
SYN. — Pleurodema libroni, TSCH. in M6m. Soc. Sc. nat. Neuch. II, 1838, 85. — GRD.
Proc. Acad. Nat. Sei. Philad. VI, 1853, 420.
Bombinator ocellatus, Mus. Leyde.
Cystignathus Libroni, DUM. & BIBR. Erp. gen. VIII, 1841, 410.
Bufo arunco, LESS. Zool. Voy. Coq. II, i, 1830, 64. PI. vu, fig. 5.
Pleurodema arunco, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 420.
OBSERV. — In the Zoology of the " Voyage de la Coquille," Plate vn,
fig. 5, Lesson gives a figure of the species here referred to, under the
name of Bufo arunco, Schn.
But Schneider himself is not the author of that specific name, since
the latter quotes Molina, " Hist, de Chile," 1, 1788, 393, who, however,
placed it in the genus Sana. Molina's diagnosis could never be in-
tended for Pleurodema bibroni, for it reads : Rana arunco, corpore
verrucoso, pedibus palmatis.
Lesson's descriptions of Bufo arunco and B. thaul, are transposed
with regard to headings : evidently a printer's mistake.
DESCR. — The head is somewhat broader than long ; its upper sur-
face declivous, and the outline of the snout rounded. The nostrils
BATRACHIAAyOURA. 39
are a little nearer the orbits than the margin of the upper jaw. The
eyes are subelliptical, of medium size. The eyelid is perfectly
smooth above, like the upper surface of the head. The tongue is
subelliptical, slightly notched posteriorly as well as anteriorly. The
vomerine teeth are disposed upon two oblong groups, situated be-
tween the inner nostrils, quite apart from each other, almost trans-
versal, the anterior extremity of each group reaching the inner
margin of the latter openings, which, themselves, are quite conspi-
cuous, well proportioned to the average size of the animal, and subcir-
cular in shape. The openings of the Eustachian tubes are quite small.
The tympanum is very small, its diameter being less than half that
of the eye.
The body is elongated, subcylindrical, broader anteriorly than the
head, tapering posteriorly, though in general appearance raniform.
The limbs are rather slender ; the anterior ones, when bent back-
wards alongside to the body, are made to reach the groin with
the extremity of the fingers ; the latter are subcylindrical, slightly
swollen upon their extremities, and provided under their articulations
with small rounded tubercles ; the second and fourth are equal in
length, and shorter than the first. The palm of the hand is tubercu-
lous; the first finger possesses a large, basal, and oblong tubercle; an-
other, still larger tubercle, may be seen at the base of the carpus. The
land legs are longer than the body and head together, for the whole
length of the toes and metatarsus. The toes are subdepressed,
bordered with a membranous fold, and slightly webbed at their base.
Their articulations are provided underneath with small tubercles; a
few granules may occasionally be seen on the sole of the feet. The
metatarsal tubercle, at the base of the first toe, is large and con-
spicuous, whilst the other is quite small. The tarsus is provided
inwardly with a cutaneous fold, and the leg, from the knee to the
tarsus, has a conspicuous, floating membrane, outwardly.
The skin is generally smooth all over the head, body, and legs.
Occasionally small pustules are observed on the dorsal region and on
the sides of the abdomen.
The lumbar glands are large and ovoid.
The ground color is reddish or greyish-brown, maculated with deep
chestnut-brown. The maculae on the upper parts of the body are
either distinct or confluent, always very irregular in shape or out-
lines. The dorsal blotches may be margined with a light whitish line ;
40
BATEACHIA.
on the hind legs the blotches assume a transverse arrangement. Dots
of the same color as the blotches are spread all over the surface, inter-
mingled with whitish dots. Black spots are always to be observed on
the lumbar glands, but not constantly upon their middle; they occupy
sometimes the posterior half, varying in height. Several spots may
likewise be noticed on the same gland. In one individual, where the
blackish spot occupies the central portion of the gland, being sur-
rounded then by a whitish areola, a whitish dot existed in the centre
of the spot. A brown vitta extends from the eye, over the line of the
can thus rostralis, to the very margin of the jaw, covering the nostril ;
the vitta from either side not coming into contact. In advance and
under the eye is a patch, variable in shape, generally, however, sub-
quadrangular, and occasionally extending from the margin of the jaw
to the rim of the orbit. From the postero-inferior part of the orbit to
the shoulder, extends an elongated and tapering patch, of deep-brown,
sometimes margined with white. Immediately above the tympanum
and behind the eye, is another irregular patch. The occipital region
is covered by the largest patch ; in advance of which, and between the
rostral vittaa, may be seen an elongated spot of the same color.
Beneath, the color is whitish, the legs being sometimes reddish and
occasionally clouded.
Numerous specimens were collected at Valparaiso, Coast of Chile.
"Keeps about wet grounds, and manners entirely those of the true
Rana" [Pickering.]
Plate IV, fig. 33, represents Pleurodema bibroni, size of life.
Fig. 34, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 35, the head, seen from above.
Fig. 36, the head, seen from beneath.
Fig. 37, under surface of right hand.
Fig. 38, under surface of left foot.
2. PLEURODEMA ELEGANS, Bell.
(Plate IV, figs. 28-32.)
SPEC. CHAR. — An ovoid lumbar gland on each side. Tympanum
apparent, very small. Toes with a basal rudimentary membrane.
BATRACHIAANOURA. 41
Skin smooth. A light longitudinal vitta or line from the snout to
posterior extremity of the body.
N.— Pleurodema eleyins, BELL, Zool. Voy. Beagle. V, 1843, 39. PI. xvn, fig.
4.— GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 420.
Cystiynathus eleyans, GuiCH. in Gay, Hist, de Chile. Zool. II, 1848, 101.
DESCR. — Although this species may easily be distinguished from the
preceding one by the light line extending all along the dorsal region,
still it is very closely related to it by all the characters of its structure.
The general form is more slender, subfusiform, and the head more coni-
cal, being as long as broad. The snout is regularly rounded in a view
from above. The nostrils are small and circular, and equidistant
between the anterior rim of the eye and the margin of the upper jaw.
The eyes, themselves, are subcircular, not prominent, with their dia-
meter equal to the distance between them and the nostrils. The upper
lid is smooth. The interocular space is equal to the diameter of the
eye. The tympanum is more apparent than in the preceding species,
but is very small. The tongue is subcircular, thick, slightly emarginated
anteriorly, posteriorly entire, and free for about the fourth of its length.
The vomerine teeth are disposed upon two oval groups as in the pre-
ceding species, and situated between the inner nostrils, though some-
what more obliquely. The inner nostrils, themselves, are circular and
well developed. The openings of the Eustachian tubes are exceed-
ingly small.
The anterior legs have proportionally the same length compared to
the body as in the preceding species, that is to say, when bent back-
wards the tips of the fingers are made to reach the groins. The fin-
gers are subdepressed, and their articulations provided beneath with
small tubercles. The palm of the hand is finely granular, and at its
base may be seen two quite large metacarpal tubercles. The tips of
the fingers are round and smooth. The hind legs are almost equal in
length to the body and head together. The toes are subdepressed like
the fingers ; slightly united at their base by a membrane, which, how-
ever, does not extend along their edge. Tubercles exist under their
articulations. The sole of the feet is smooth. The metatarsal tu-
bercles are quite prominent, and conical, though small. The membra-
nous ridge, at the inside of the tarsus, is not very conspicuous.
The skin is smooth throughout.
The ground color above is brown, clouded with darker patches.
11
42
BATRACHIA.
A yellowish-white vitta or stripe extends over the back, from the tip
of the snout to the posterior extremity of the body. An elongated,
dark patch extends from the eye to the shoulder, and two elliptical
ones exist upon the extremity of the snout, in advance and beneath
the eye ; on the margin of the jaw may be observed a subquadran-
gular spot.
Collected near Valparaiso, Chile.
Plate IV, fig. 28, represents Pleurodema elegans, size of life.
Fig. 29, the head, viewed in profile.
Fig. 30, upper view of the head.
Fig. 31, under surface of left hand.
Fig. 32, under surface of right foot.
GENUS WAGLERIA, GIRARD.
CAR. GEN. — Dentibus vomerinis in continuam transversam seriem post
interiores nares dispositis. Tympano parvo, inconspicuo. Lingual
postice parumper incisa. Plantarum digitis plicaturd membraned
marginalia.
GEN. CHAR. — Vomerine teeth disposed upon a continuous transverse
series, situated behind the inner nostrils. Tympanum small and
inconspicuous. Tongue slightly notched posteriorly. Toes bordered
by a membranous fold.
SYN.— Wagleria, GED. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 42.
OBSERV. — Should Cystignatlms dorsalis, GRAY, prove specifically
distinct from Wagleria peroni, this genus will then be composed of
two species, both natives of Australia. Having no specimens of the
latter at our command, our acquaintance with it is through the
description of John Edward Gray.
WAGLERIA PERONI, Grd.
(Plate III, figs. 29-33. ,
SPEC. CHAR. — Band of vomerine teeth long and slender. Tongue
BATRACHIAANOURA. 43
eubcircular, free upon its posterior third. Toes elongated and
slender. Skin perfectly smooth. Ground color fuliginous, macu-
lated above ; unicolor beneath.
SYN. — Cystiynathus peronii, DOM. & BIBR. Erp. gen. VIII, 1841, 409.
Wayleria pf.ronii, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 421.
DESCR. — The unique specimen of this species which we have before
us is about an inch long. That it is Cysiignaihus peroni of Duine*-
ril & Bibron, we can only infer from their description, which, as far as
it goes, applies perfectly to it. It must, however, be remembered that
the said description is extremely brief, and hardly sufficient to establish
thoroughly its identity.
The head forms about the third of the entire length, the limbs
always excepted. It is a little broader than long, and when viewed
from above, subovoid in its outline. Its upper surface is even and
smooth, the snout being rather prominent and rounded. The nostrils
are small, and nearer the eye than the margin of the upper jaw. The
eyes are subelliptical, proportionally large; their longitudinal diameter
being greater than the interocular space, and comprised twice in the
rostral distance between their anterior rim and the nostrils. The
upper lid is smooth above, and its margin sharp, and projecting con-
siderably over the eyeball. The tympanum is indistinct, circular,
rather small ; its diameter being half that of the eye. It is situated
immediately above and posteriorly to the angle of the mouth. The
tongue is subcircular, very slightly emarginated posteriorly, and free
for about one-third of its length. The inner nostrils are small but
conspicuous and circular; the openings of the Eustachian tubes are
smaller, though similar in form. The series of vomerine teeth is
narrow and long; placed at some distance behind the inner nostrils,
and extending almost across the whole width of the roof of the palate.
The body is elongated, subcylindrical. The anterior legs, when
brought backwards alongside with the body, are made to reach the
groins with the extremities of the fingers ; the latter are subcylindri-
cal, slender, and tapering, and provided beneath with small tubercles.
The palm of the hand is smooth. There are two oblong metacarpal
tubercles, the one at the base of the first finger being the largest. 1 he
first, second, and fourth fingers are almost equal in length. The hind
legs are longer than the body and head together, for the whole length
of the foot. The toes being slender and subcylindrical, margined in
44
BATRACHIA.
the male by a membranous fold. The articulations, beneath, are
provided with tubercles. The sole of the feet is smooth. There are
two metatarsal tubercles ; the outer one very small and inconspicuous.
The skin is perfectly smooth all over. The ground color is fuliginous
with rather large brownish maculae, one of which spreading over the
occipital region and portion of the head and eyelid. The others are
arranged upon irregular series along the back. The legs are barred.
A brown streak runs from the margin of the upper jaw, along the line
of the canthus rostralis to the eye. The sides of the abdomen and
inferior region being unicolor, of a somewhat duller hue.
Collected in Southeastern Australia.
Plate III, fig. 29, represents Wagleria peroni, size of life.
Fig. 30, side view of the head.
Fig. 31, upper view of the head.
Fig. 32, under surface of right hand.
Fig. 33, under surface of left foot.
GENUS KANIDELLA, GIRARD.
CAR. GEN. — Dentibus vomerinis nullis. Lingua elongata, subelliptica,
postice Integra vel leviter emarginata,, per tertian longitudinis partem
Hbera. Tympana inconspicuo. Tubulis Eustachianis parvulissimis.
Plantarum digitis subcylindricalibus, minuentibus, liberis.
GEN. CHAR. — Vomerine teeth none. Tongue elongated, subelliptical,
posteriorly entire or else slightly emarginated, free upon one-third
of its length. Tympanum not visible. Eustachian tubes minute.
Toes subcylindrical, tapering, perfectly free.
Svx.—Ranidella, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 421.
OBSERV. — This genus is allied to Oxyglossus and Leiuperus by the
absence of teeth on the palate ; differing, however, from both of them
in having its tympanum entirely hidden, and its toes perfectly free.
KANIDELLA SIGNIFERA, Grd.
(Plate III, figs. 39-43.)
CAR. SPEC. — Cute supra, subtuberculosa, infra glandulosa. Macula hasti-
BATRACHIA A.X 0 U R A. 45
forma In capile. Yitta dorsuali lala, fusca, arilice bifurcata ad ex-
Iremilalem maculae cephalicae accipienclum. Villa lateraU exirjua,
ijrisea, infra quam est villa exiyuior fusco nigrescens; abdominis lateri-
el venire marmoralis.
SPEC. CHAR. — Skin above, subtuberculous ; beneath, glandulous. A
spear-shaped blotch on the head. A broad, dorsal, deep-brown
band, anteriorly bifurcated, to admit the extremity of the cephalic
blotch. A lateral, greyish, narrow band, beneath which, another
still narrower blackish-brown band. Sides of abdomen and belly
marmorated.
Svx.—Ranidella si'yni/era, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 422.
DESCR. — This diminutive species, the only one hitherto known of its
genus, has a comparatively small and conical head ; when seen from
above, it is depressed as usual, forming about the third of the length,
the limbs excluded. The snout is rounded. The nostrils are quite
small and subelliptical, almost equidistant between the anterior rim of
the eyes and the margin of the upper jaw, rather nearer the former
than the latter. The eyes, themselves, are elliptical, prominent; their
longitudinal diameter being equal to the distance between their ante-
rior rim and the tip of the snout. The interocular space is somewhat
wider than the upper lid. The tympanum is entirely hid under the
skin. The mouth is deeply cleft ; the tongue is elongated, subcylin-
drical, narrowest anteriorly, free posteriorly, for about the third of its
length, and showing but a very obsolete indentation. The inner
nostrils are subcircular, quite conspicuous, situated towards the edges
of the roof of the palate. The openings of the Eustachian tubes are
minute, scarcely perceptible. The maxillary teeth are exceedingly
small. The symphysis of the upper jaw is entire ; that of the lower
jaw is provided with a very small knob.
The body is elongated, raniform, subcylindrical, somewhat depressed.
The anterior legs, when inclined backwards, reach the groins with the
tip of the fingers. These, as well as the toes, are free, subcylin-
drical, tapering into a point, and provided under their articulations
with small tubercles. The first finger is shorter than the second,
which is longer than the fourth ; the third is conspicuously the longest.
The palm of the hand is rugose ; there are two metacarpal tubercles
12
46 BATRACHIA.
or horny disks, the outermost being the largest, whilst the innermost,
which is situated at the base of the first finger, is inconspicuous. The
hind legs are slender, longer than the body and head together, by the
whole length of the fourth toe. The inner edge of the tarsus exhibits
a horny ridge. The sole of the feet is smooth. The outer metatarsal
tubercle is smaller than the inner one.
The skin above, is provided with elongated, warty tubercles, ex-
tending over the head and dorsal region. The inferior regions are
covered with crowded, large, pavement-like glands, especially con-
spicuous on the abdomen.
The ground color above, is sometimes uniform greyish-brown, with
transverse blackish maculae upon the legs. A blackish vitta extends
from the tip of the snout along the line of the canthus rostralis,
through the eye towards the shoulder, and tapering into a point. A
blackish triangular patch may be observed on the margin of the
upper jaw, in advance and beneath the eye, or else several spots all
along the branch of the maxillary. A yellowish-green band may be
observed from under the eye to the angle of the jaw. The lower
surface of the head is blackish-brown. The belly is yellowish-brown,
scattered all over with small black spots ; the legs reddish brown, like-
wise maculated ; the fingers and toes being reddish.
In other individuals a spear-shaped spot exists upon the middle
region of the head, behind which, and all along the back, may be seen
a brownish-black band, anteriorly bifurcated, so as to admit the poste-
rior extremity of the cephalic spot. On each side of the dorsal band
is another, narrower band, of a yellowish-grey, stretching over the head,
and along the sides of the body ; from behind the orbits to the groins,
extends a still narrower, brownish-black, band.
This species is a native of Australia : several specimens having
been collected on the southeastern coast of that continent.
Plate III, fig. 39, represents Ranidella signifera, size of life.
Fig. 40, is a profile of the head.
Fig. 41, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 42, under surface of the left hand.
Fig. 43, under surface of the right foot.
B A T R A C H I A A N 0 U R A. 47
FAM. HYLIDAE.
Teeth in the upper jaw, and generally on the vomer also. Tongue
oftentimes bifurcated posteriorly. No parotid glands. Extremities
of fingers and toes dilated into a disk-like expansion. Abdomen
generally glandulous.
STN. — Hylae, TSCH. Mem. Soc. Sci. nat. Neucb. II, 1838, 70.
Hylaeformes, DUM. & BIBR. Erp. gen. VIII, 1841, 491.
OBSERV. — Time may come when herpetologists will no longer admit
of any primary distinction between the frogs (Ranidae) and the tree
frogs (Hylidae). The dilatation of the extremities of the fingers in
tree frogs seems to loose some of its value in Ranoidea and Halophila,
and accordingly bears somewhat upon their habits.
GEXUS RANOIDEA, TSCH.
GEN*. CHAR. — Yomerine teeth disposed upon two groups, situated
between the inner nostrils. Tongue large, subcircular or elliptical,
slightly notched posteriorly, and free about one-third or less of its
length. Tympanum distinct. Eustachian tubes large. Fingers
and toes depressed, terminated by small subelliptical disks ; former,
perfectly free ; latter, webbed. A vocal, subgular, bladder in the
male. Abdomen gland ulous.
-•
SYN. — Ranoidea, TSCH. Mem. Soc. Sci. nat. Xeuch. II, 1838, 76. — GBD. in Proc.
Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 422.
OBSERV. — The aspect of the genus Ranoidea is ranine, owing to the
elongation of the head and body. The structure of the feet and the
disposition of the vomerine teeth remind us of the genus Rana,
whilst the tongue and the dilatation of the digits give to it a certain
affinity with Hyla. The dilatations of the fingers and toes, however,
are much less developed than in Hyla ; and the fingers are never pal-
mated. If habits go for anything in the distinction of genera, the
fact that Ranoidians are more frequently seen about waters than on
trees, would certainly have a weight in the question.
The United States Exploring Expedition has brought home two
48 BATRACHIA.
very characteristic species, both of which being apparently distinct
from the one upon which Tschudi has framed his genus, labelled in
the Museum of Paris, Hyla jaclcsoniensis. The latter name having
received no publicity until 1838, and the same species having been de-
scribed by Lesson in 1830, its nomenclature will read as follows:
RANOIDEA AUREA, GRD. — Rana aurea, LESS. Voy. Coq. Zool. II, i, 1830, 60. PI.
vn, fig. 2. (See page 02 of the present volume.)
Ranoidea jaclcsoniensis, TSCH. Mem. Soc. Sci. nat. Neuch. II, 1838, 79.
Hyla jacksoniemis, Mus. Par. MS.— BUM. & BIBE. Erp. gen. VIII, 1841, 602.
It is more closely allied to R. resplendens than to R. flavo-viridis.
We regret not being prepared to establish its identity or difference
upon the specimens of the Paris Museum.
1. RANOIDEA RESPLENDENS, Grd.
(Plate III, figs. 7-12.)
CAR. SPEC. — Capite depresso, producto. Tympano marjno, elliptico.
Lingua modica. Plantarum diyitis ad discos terminal®} usque pal-
matis ; membrana emarginata. Supra viridi, maculis et lineis
aureis notata.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head depressed, elongated. Tympanum large, ellip-
tical. Tongue moderate. Toes webbed, up to the digital disks ;
membrane emarginated. Deep-green above, maculated and streaked
with gold.
SYN. — Ranoidea resplendens, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 422.
DESCR. — The general physiognomy of this species is most raniform ;
the head and body being quite elongated. The head is longer than
broad, depressed, subconcave on the occipital region, and flat ante-
riorly. The snout is prominently rounded, and equally declivous
towards the tip of the snout and sideways, where it is subconcave.
The canthus rostralis is but slightly apparent, and beneath which are
situated the rather small and subconical nostrils, equidistant between
the anterior rim of the eye and the extremity of the upper jaw. The
eyes are of medium size, subcircular ; their diameter being equal to
the rostral distance between their anterior rim and the nostrils. The
B A T R A C H I A A N 0 U R A. 49
interocular space is somewhat smaller than their diameter. The tym-
panum is rather large, elliptical, and obliquely situated above the angle
of the mouth. Its greatest diameter is equal to that of the eye. The
mouth is large ; the tongue elliptical, notched posteriorly, and free for
about one-fifth of its length. The inner nostrils are large, semi-circular,
concave upon their posterior margin ; their anterior margin being nearly
rectilinear. The openings of the Eustachian tubes are larger than the
inner nostrils, and similarly shaped, but their convexity is on the
opposite side. The vomerine teeth constitute two elongated groups,
disposed upon a transverse line between the inner nostrils; very little
interrupted upon the middle, and close to the inner edge of the latter
openings.
The body is broader than deep ; the neck is slightly contracted.
The limbs are well developed ; the anterior ones, when bent back-
wards alongside with the body, project the tip of their fingers beyond
the groins. The fingers, themselves, are depressed and perfectly free;
the first one is nearly equal to the second ; the fourth is longer than
the first and second ; the third is the longest ; they are provided with
large tubercles under their articulations. The terminal disks are sub-
elliptical. The palm of the hand is granular. There are no meta-
carpal tubercles ; the base of the first finger is considerably swollen,
and upon its outer margin may be seen a horny growth representing
probably the tubercle which is usually found there in batrachians.
In bringing the posterior legs forwards, the tarsus and foot project
beyond the extremity of the snout. A membranous fold is observed
along the inner edge of the tarsus. A single, considerably developed,
metatarsi tubercle exists at the base of the outer toe. The sole of
the feet is smooth. The toes are depressed like the fingers, and pro-
vided beneath their articulations with conspicuous tubercles. The
digital dilatations are smaller than anteriorly, but are elliptical in their
shape. The membrane which unites the toes, extends to the extremity
of the last phalanx (to the last but one in the fourth), but is emargi-
nated, though not so much so as in the following species.
The skin is smooth throughout, if we except the sides of the abdo-
men, the belly, and the inferior surface of the thighs, which are
glandulous.
The ground color above, is of a beautiful deep-green. On each
side of the back there is a sinuous golden streak. A similar band of
gold extends from behind the eyes to the posterior region of the body.
50
BATRACHIA.
A yellowish vitta runs from the snout to the angle of the mouth, in
passing under the eyes and nostrils. A black vitta is observed on the
line of the canthus rostralis, and is seen beyond the eye, running to a
considerable distance on the flanks, sending off a black patch behind
the tympanum. The iris and upper lid are golden. The forelegs are
green on the sides, margined with black, and golden above ; the hind
legs are golden on the sides, and green above. The fingers, toes, and
membrane are golden-yellow. Underneath, the color is of a uniform
yellowish tint.
Caught in January, 1840, at Woolongong, Illawara, New South
Wales, in water near the coast, and sketched from life by Mr.
Dray ton.
Plate III, fig. 7, represents Ranoidea resplendens, size of life.
Fig. 8, a side view of the head.
Fig. 9, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 10, the head, seen from beneath.
Fig. 11, under surface of the left hand.
Fig. 12, under surface of the left foot.
2. RANOIDEA FLAVO-VIRIDIS, Grd.
CAR. SPEC. — C(tpite depresso, discoidali. Tympano modico, orbiculato.
Lingua magna. Plantarum digilis ad postremae plialangis medium
usque palmatis ; membrana valde emarginata. Supra viridi; cantho
rostrali linea niyra notato; quae linea post oculum continuatur.
Femoris super ficie posteriori pur pur escente, punctis albis notata.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head depressed, discoid. Tympanum moderate, circular.
Tongue large. Toes webbed to the middle of the last phalanx ; mem-
brane deeply emarginated. Above, green with a black line along
the canthus rostralis, and a black band behind the eye. Posterior
surface of thighs purplish, white dotted.
SYN. — Ranoidea flavo-viridis, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 422.
DESCR. — The head is broader than long, very much depressed, flat-
tened upon the occiput, and between the eyes. Viewed from above,
BATRACHIAANOURA. 51
it is almost subelliptical, its sides being rounded, and the snout not
very prominent, itself rounded above and declivous upon the sides.
The nostrils are oblong, situated immediately below the canthus ros-
tralis, and nearer the extremity of the upper jaw than the anterior
rim of the orbit. The eyes are large, prominent, their longitudinal
diameter being greater than the rhinic distance between their anterior
rim and the nostrils. The upper lid is smooth, like the skin of the
head and back. The interocular space is a little less than their
diameter. The tympanum is conspicuous, circular, its diameter being
half that of the eye. The mouth is large, and so is the tongue, which
is regularly elliptical, and but slightly emarginated, slightly free pos-
teriorly and laterally. The inner nostrils are very large, subtrian-
gular ; the openings of the Eustachian tubes are much smaller. The
vomerine teeth constitute two oblong groups, situated exactly between
the inner nostrils; subtransversal, separated from each other by a narrow
space, and approximating closely to the inner edge of the nostrils.
The body is flattened like the head, broad anteriorly, and tapering
posteriorly. The limbs are slender and long, compared to the body.
The anterior ones, however, when brought alongside to the body,
only reach the groins with the extremities of the fingers. The
latter are entirely free, depressed, provided with tubercles under their
articulations. The disks under their extremities are oblong and of
medium size. The palm of the hand is subgranular, and provided at
its base with two flattened disks almost blended with the skin. The
hind legs are longer than the body and head together, by two-thirds
of the tarsus and the remaining portion of the foot. The tarsus
exhibits a small membranous ridge along its inner edge. The sole
of the feet is very minutely pustulous. The toes are webbed up to
the middle of the last phalanx (on the fourth toe to the end of the
last but one) ; but the membrane is very deeply emarginated. The
tubercles under their articulations are quite conspicuous. The termi-
nal expansions are fashioned like those of the fingers, being rather
small compared to the size of the animal. The skin is smooth
throughout ; small glands may be seen on the side of the chest, on
the abdomen, and under the thighs.
The color above, is green, with yellowish tints about the eyes, the
sides of the abdomen, and legs. A narrow black vitta extends along
the line of the canthus rostralis. A black, much broader vitta,
extends from behind the eyes to the sides beyond the shoulders. The
52 BATRACHIA.
thighs posteriorly are bluish-purple, minutely dotted with white.
Underneath, the color is uniform yellowish-green.
A young specimen exhibits a much deeper green hue upon the
upper region, while the sides of the legs are of a deeper yellow, almost
orange. In the same individual, the palatine teeth constitute but two
very indistinct groups, apparently more distant from each other, than
in the one just described ; but this may be accounted for by the
smaller size of the inner nostrils, which are elliptical instead of being
triangular.
Specimens were found about fresh-water streams, near Woolongong,
Illawara, New South Wales, at the residence of the Attorney-General,
in January, 1840.
GENUS HYLARANA, TSCH.
GEN. CHAR. — Vomerine teeth disposed upon two groups, situated
between or behind the inner nostrils. Tongue elongated, narrow
anteriorly, broad, and forked posteriorly. Tympanum distinct.
Eustachian tubes moderate. Fingers free. Toes webbed. Sub-
digital disks moderate.
SYN. — Hylarana, TSCH. Mem. Soc. Sci. nat. Neuch. II, 1838, 78. — GRD. in Proc.
Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 423.
Limnodytes, DUM. & BIBR. Erp. gen. VIII, 1841, 510.
Ranhyla, DUM. & BIBR. Erp. gen. VIII, 1841, 511.
ORSERV. — This genus combines the structure of both Sana and
Hyla, having all the characters of true Rana with the exception that
the extremities of the fingers and toes are dilated into a disk, which
is much less developed, however, than in Hyla.
HYLARANA MINDANENSIS, Grd.
CAR. SPEC. — Denies vomerini inter et post nares interiores in duos acervos
elongates collocantur. Cute pustalosa. Colore fusco-viridescente ;
maxilla superiori maculata.
BATRACHIAANOURA. 53
SPEC. CHAR. — Vomerine teeth disposed upon two elongated groups,
situated between and behind the inner nostrils. Skin pustulous,
greenish-brown; upper jaw spotted.
SYN.— Hylara.no, mtndanensis, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Xat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 423.
DESCR. — This appears to be the smallest species of its genus, the
greatest length of the body and head together measuring but one inch,
the head forming about the third of it, and is as long as broad. The
upper surface of the head is almost flat, and, when viewed from above,
ovoid in its outline. The snout is elevated, rounded, narrow, and
quite prominent. The nostrils are conspicuous, and nearer the extre-
mity of the snout than the anterior rim of the orbit. The space
between tbe nostrils and eyes is subconcave, whilst the margin of the
jaw constitutes a convex ridge. The eyes are proportionally large
arid prominent, subcircular in shape, their diameter being equal to
the distance between their anterior rim and the extremity of the
snout. The interocular space is equal to the greatest width of the
upper lid, which, itself, is smooth like the surface of the head. The
tympanum is situated very close to the eye, and is less in diameter
than the latter. The tongue is large, fleshy, subelliptical ; its poste-
rior bifurcation being narrow and diverging. The inner nostrils are
subcircular, of medium size, and situated near to the jaw-bone.
The vomerine teeth are not very conspicuous ; disposed upon two nar-
row, widely separated, elliptical groups or series, directed obliquely in-
wards and backwards from the posterior margin of the inner nostrils.
The body is elongated, subcylindrical ; the anterior limbs slender,
shorter than the trunk ; the posterior ones, comparatively well de-
veloped, longer than the body and head together, by the whole length
of the foot. The fingers are subdepressed ; the first is but very little
longer than the second and fourth ; the latter two being nearly equal.
The palm of the hand exhibits ridges running in the direction of the
fingers. The articulations of the latter are provided beneath with
conspicuous though small knobs or tubercles, in every point similar
to the swellings on the inferior surface of their extremities. The toes
are webbed, very nearly to their tips, but the membrane is very deeply
concave between all of them. The swellings at their extremities are
larger than the tubercles under their articulations. There is but one
metatarsal tubercle, situated at the base of the inner toe, from which
14
54 BATRACHIA.
a horny ridge extends along the inner edge of the tarsus. The exte-
rior ridge of the fifth toe is bordered by a membranous ridge, which,
however, does not reach quite to its extremity.
The skin above is minutely pustulous, and smooth beneath.
The ground color is greenish-brown, uniform and lighter beneath.
There are obsolete darker spots on the body as well as on the limbs.
The margin of the upper jaw and sides of the head exhibit similar
traces of maculae.
Loc. — Two specimens were collected in the Caldera, on Mindanao.
GENUS HALOPIIILA, GIRARD.
CHAR. GEN. — Denies vomerini inter et post nares in acervos duos elon-
gatos collocantur. Lingua elongata, lanceolata ; antice angusta, pos-
tice bifurcata, per dimidiam ejus longitudinem libera. Tympana dls-
tincto. Tubulis Eustachianis modicis. Pcdmarum digitis liberis,
plantarum vero aliquantulo palmatis. Discis subdigitalibus magnitu-
dine diversis.
GEN. CHAR. — Vomerine teeth disposed upon two oblong groups, situ-
ated between and behind the inner nostrils. Tongue elongated,
lanceolated, narrow anteriorly, forked posteriorly, and free half its
length. Tympanum distinct. Eustachian tubes moderate. Fingers
free. Toes with rudimentary web at their base. Subdigital disks
varying in development.
SYX.—Halophila, GED. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 423.
OBSERV. — This genus is very intimately related to Hylarana, and
like the latter, combines characters of both Hyla and Rana. It has
the forked tongue of Rana, and the extremities of the fingers and
toes dilated as in Hyla. It is distinguishable from Hylarana by its
tongue, which is free behind on a greater extent ; by its toes, which
are but slightly webbed at their base, and by its digital extremities
more developed, and, therefore, resembling more the same parts in
Hyla. The shape of the body and head, on the other hand, resembles
Rana most.
BATRACHIAANOURA. 55
We consider, as belonging to this genus, Rana papua, LESS, in Voy.
Coq. Zool. II, 1830, 59. PL vii, fig. 1.
1. HALOPHILA HEROS, Grd.
(Plate IV, figs. 1-6.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Discis subdigitaUbus parvulis. Colore subviridi fuscato,
cum clariori vitta dorsuali. Abdominis lateribus cruribusque nigro
maculatis. Infra fusca.
SPEC. CHAR. — Subdigital disks small in both pairs of limbs. Green-
ish-brown, with a dorsal light line. Sides of abdomen and limbs
spotted with black. Beneath, dull-brown.
S?x.—ITalophila herot, GED. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 423.
OBSERV. — A preliminary glance at the figure which represents this
species would leave the impression of a Cystignathus, or better, per-
haps, of a Leplodaclylus. The remarkable size of the species, its much
developed locoinotory organs, and the slenderness of the digits, all
contribute to the aspect just alluded to. The comparatively small de-
velopment of the terminal subdigital disks has also a good deal to do
with its general physiognomy.
DESCR. — The head forms more than the third of the length. It is as
long as broad, and, seen from above, it has a subtriangular shape, the
snout being but slightly truncated. Its upper surface is flattened ;
the phrenic region depressed or subconcave ; the canthus rostralis
almost even with the upper surface of the snout. The nostrils are
comparatively small, elongated, obliquely situated towards the upper
region of the snout, and close to its anterior declivity. Their distance
from the anterior rim of the orbits is twice that which extends be-
tween them and the margin of the upper jaw. The eyes are large,
prominent, subcircular ; their diameter being equal to the distance
between them and the nostrils, and which is quite considerable. The
interocular space is but two-thirds of the longitudinal diameter of the
eye. The tympanum is rather large and conspicuous, subcircular ;
a vertical line drawn through its middle would intersect the angle of
gg BATRACHIA.
the mouth. Its diameter corresponds nearly to the radius of the eye.
The mouth, as may be expected from the size of the head, is very
large. The tongue is very much developed, spear-shaped, narrowest
anteriorly. Its posterior bifurcation is very conspicuous, the organ,
itself, being free posteriorly, for more than half of its entire length.
The maxillary teeth are very minute. The inner nostrils are large,
transversely elongated, reaching almost the branches of the maxillary.
The vomerine teeth constitute two stout, elongated, or subtriangular
groups, obliquely situated between and behind the inner nostrils,
leaving an appreciable space between the inner edge of the latter and
their anterior extremity. The openings of the Eustachian tubes are
quite large, though much smaller than the inner nostrils, and either
subtriangular in shape or longitudinally oblong or elliptical.
The body is elongated, broader than deep, and tapering posteriorly,
as in Rana and Leptodactylus. The limbs are very much developed
and stoutish. The anterior ones, when brought backwards alongside
the body, reach almost the coccyx with the extremity of the fingers.
The palm of the hand is smooth, and provided with one, rather large,
horny disk at the base of the inner finger. The fingers themselves
are subdepressed, entirely free, and provided with large tubercles
under their articulations. The first is longer than the second, which
is shorter than the fourth. Their tips are but slightly expanded.
The hind limbs are longer than the body by the whole length of the
foot. The tarsus has no membranous fold or horny ridge along its
inner edge. The soles of the feet are perfectly smooth ; there is but one
developed metatarsal tubercle, at the base of the inner toe. Tubercles
may be observed under each articulation, and the dilatations of their
extremities likewise, are but little developed. The rudiment of a
membrane is observed at the base of all the toes.
The skin is smooth all over, except on the inferior and posterior
surfaces of the thighs, which are minutely glandulous.
The ground color is greenish-brown, the green predominating upon
the sides and the limbs. There is a slender dorsal line extending from
the head to the posterior part of the body, and a similar one along the
limbs. The sides of the abdomen, head and legs, are sprinkled over
with small blackish spots, surrounded with bluish-white on the abdo-
men. The fingers and toes are green and yellow. Beneath, the color-
ation is of a uniform dull-brown.
BATRACHIAANOURA. 57
The species inhabits the Feejee Islands.
Plate IV, fig. 1, represents Hdlophila heros, size of life.
Fig. 2, a side view of the head.
Fig. 3, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 4, the head, seen from beneath.
Fig. 5, under surface of the left hand.
Fig. 6, under surface of the left foot.
2. HALOPHILA VITIEXSIS, Grd.
(Plate IV, figs. 7-11.)
CAR. SPEC. — Discls subdigtidfflnw magnis. Colore luteo.
SPEC. CHAR. — Subdigital disks large in both pairs of limbs. Yellow-
ish-orange.
S\-x.—ffalophila vitiensis, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 423.
DESCR. — The head is depressed, elongated, narrowing anteriorly.
Its upper surface is smooth, flattened from the occipital region to the
nostrils, hence, declivous towards the margin of the jaw; its sides are
sloping, and the phrenic region is depressed. The nostrils, oblong in
shape, are obliquely situated near the upper part of the snout, at the
culminating point of its declivity, and twice as distant from the an-
terior rim of the eye than the margin of the upper jaw. The eyes
are proportionally large, subelliptical in shape ; their longitudinal
diameter being equal to the rhinic distance from their anterior margin
to the nostrils. The interocular space is equal to the ocular diameter.
The tympanum is quite conspicuous, subcircular ; its diameter being
greater than the radius of the eye ; it is situated immediately above
and posteriorly to the angle of the mouth, at a little distance
from the orbit. The mouth, itself, is deeply cleft ; the tongue is elon-
gated, subpyriform, narrowest anteriorly, and free upon its posterior
half; laterally, it is but slightly so. The inner nostrils are quite
large, transversly elliptical, situated towards the periphery of the pal-
atine roof. The vomerine teeth are disposed upon two oblong groups,
widely separated from each other and situated obliquely behind the
15
58 BATRACHIA.
inner and posterior edge of the inner nostrils. The openings of the
Eustachian tubes are conspicuous, large, though somewhat smaller
than the inner nostrils.
The body is elongated, subcylindrical, raniform. The limbs are
well developed, and the dilatations at the extremities of the fingers
and toes, large and conspicuous : larger upon the former than upon
the latter.
The anterior legs, when bent backwards alongside with the body,
reach the groins, with the extremities of the fingers, and even project
somewhat beyond, though not as far as the coccyx. The fingers are
depressed ; provided under their articulations with rounded tubercles.
A few of these, but a great deal smaller, may be seen scattered over
the palm of the hand. There are no metacarpal disks or horny knobs
or tubercles. The hind legs are longer than the body and head to-
gether, of the whole length of the metatarsus and toes. The tarsus
shows no traces of either a horny ridge or a membranous fold along
its inner edge. The metatarsus exhibits two very small tubercles,
one, as usual, at the base of the first toe, the other outwardly. The
sole of the feet is smooth. The articulations of the toes are protected
underneath with small tubercles. The toes themselves are depressed
like the fingers, and united by a membrane at their base only.
The skin is perfectly smooth throughout, except posteriorly and
beneath the inner half of the thighs, where it is glandulous ; the pos-
terior part of the belly has, likewise, a glandulous aspect.
The color is of a bright uniform yellowish-orange of a duller
hue beneath than above. The iris is yellow.
Specimens of this species were collected in May, 1840, at Sebukea,
Feejee Islands. A drawing from life was made by Mr. Jos. Dray ton.
Plate IV, fig. 7, represents Halopliila vitiensis, size of life.
Fig. 8, side view of the head.
Fig. 9, upper view of the head.
Fig. 10, under surface of the left hand.
Fig. 11, under surface of the right foot.
3. HALOPHILA DORSUALIS, Grd.
(Plate IV, figs. 12-16.)
CAR. SPEC. — Discis suMiyitalibus modicis. Colore purpureo-mibescente.
BATRACHIAANOURA 59
SPEC. CHAR. — Subdigital disks moderate in both pairs of limbs. Red-
dish-purple, with a dorsal light line, and maculated with black.
DESCR. — Of this species there was but one specimen collected, now
in a very precarious state of preservation. In its general aspect it
resembles more H. lieros than H. ritiensis, but is easily distinguished
from the former by a much greater dilatation of the extremities of
fingers and toes. The membrane at the base of the toes is also more
developed than in H. heros.
The ground color is yellowish-purple, more intense along the sides.
The upper surface of the head and body exhibits a golden hue,
and along the middle region of the back is a whitish, narrow vitta,
extending from the snout to the posterior extremity of the body. On
each side of that dorsal line are blackish maculae, largest upon the
head and anterior part of the body, and smallest along the sides. The
legs are barred with black. The iris is purplish.
Found, with the preceding species, on the Feejee Islands. A
drawing from life having been made by Mr. Drayton, its form and
general appearance were thus preserved.
Plate IV, fig. 12, represents Ealopldla dorsualis, size of life.
Fig. 13, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 14, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 15, under surface of the left hand.
Fig. 16, under surface of the left foot.
GEXCS HYLA, LAUR.
GEX. CHAR. — Vomerine teeth disposed upon two groups, situated
between the inner nostrils. Tongue large, circular, or elliptical,
slightly notched, and free posteriorly. Tympanum distinct. Fin-
gers and toes depressed, very much dilated upon their extremities.
Toes webbed, aud the fingers occasionally also.
rN.— Hyla, LAUR. Synos. Kept. 1768. — LINN. Sjst. Nat. ed. X, 1768, 213. — DUM.
& BIBR. Erp. gen. VIII, 1841, 542.
OBSERV. — In some species the fingers as well as the toes are webbed
60 BATRACHIA,
to a greater or lesser degree. In a systematic work it might be well
to arrange in one group such as have the fingers entirely free, and in
another group those in which they are webbed.
HYLA REGILLA, B. & G.
(Plate III, figs.18-18.)
CAB. SPEC.' — Denies vomerini in acervos duos orl/iculatos collocantur.
Palmarum digitis liberis, plantarum semipalmatis. Cute tubercu-
losa superne, inferne glandulosa. Colore viridi ad luteum vergente ;
maculis vel vittis fuscis corpore dispersis.
SPEC. CHAR. — Vomerine teeth disposed upon two circular groups.
Fingers free. Toes semipalmated. Skin above, tuberculous ;
beneath, glandulous. Green, with orange reflections ; maculated
or banded with blackish-brown.
STN.— Ilyla regilla, B. & G. in Proe. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 174; et
1853, 301.
Hyla scapularis, HALLOW, in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 183.
OBSERV. — Amongst the numerous specimens before us, the one
represented in figure 13 is the largest ; and, according to all probabili-
ties, illustrates the fullest dimensions of this species.
DESCR. — The head is subtriangular, nearly as long as broad ; the
snout is subtruncated, slightly declivous, with a quite prominent can-
thus rostralis. Its upper surface is nearly plane, or slightly subcon-
cave. The space between the nostril and the eye is slightly concave
also. The nostrils occupy the highest part of the snout, being much
nearer its extremity than the anterior rim of the orbit. The eyes are
prominent and large, circular, and elevated above the surface of the
head. The tympanum is subelliptical ; its diameter is half that of
the eye. The tongue is broad, subelliptical, and but slightly notched
posteriorly. The maxillary teeth are very minute, and invisible to
the naked eye, especially on the lower jaw. The palatine teeth form
two small and circular groups situated between the inner nostrils,
and as far apart from the latter as the space between them. The
BATRACHIAAXOURA. (jj
inner nostrils, on the other hand, are quite large, very conspicuous,
and circular in shape. The Eustachian tubes being of medium size.
The body is twice and a half as long as the head ; it is elongated,
raniform. The anterior feet, when stretched alongside the body,
scarcely reach the groins with their extremities. The fingers are per-
fectly free, slender, and their terminal disks of medium size. The
inner finger is the smallest ; the outermost, a little longer than the
second ; the third is the longest, being about one-fourth longer than
the fourth. The inferior surface of the carpus is minutely granular.
Small tubercles may be observed under each digital articulation. The
hind legs are long and slender; the knees touch the elbows when
brought close to the body. The leg proper is somewhat longer than
the thigh ; the tarsus and foot together are as long as the body, the
head excluded. A membrane unites the toes to about half their
length. A small, horny, spade-like tubercle exists at the base of the
inner and smallest toe ; the fourth toe is the longest, and the fifth
about equal to the third. The terminal disks are a little smaller than
those of the fingers, though similar in structure ; there being a medial
longitudinal furrow, dividing them into two halves or hemidisks. A
minute granulation is also to be observed under the sole of the feet,
and small tubercles under the articulations of the toes..
The skin above, is smooth; a few very small and scattered tubercles
are observed on the two anterior thirds of the body and head, more
crowded on the upper lid. The legs are either smooth or, likewise,
provided above with small tubercles. On the inferior surface of the
body, a pectoral fold extends from one shoulder to another, and in the
male, there are well developed vocal pouches, perfectly smooth, whilst
in the female the inferior surface of the head is minutely granular.
The granulation is coarser on the anterior portion of the belly than
posteriorly, and under the thighs, it is quite fine.
In the adult, the ground color is deep-green, with orange or golden
reflections on the sides of the head, abdomen, and legs. A deep-brown
vitta extends from the nostrils to the anterior rim of the orbit, pass-
ing over the eye, across the tympanum, down the abdomen to the
groin; sometimes, however, an irregular series of spots is observed
along the abdomen. Transverse series of dots' are seen on the limbs,
and longitudinal series along their outer edge, extending also to the
toes. Sometimes, and perhaps only in the male, may be observed two
dorsal longitudinal brown vittae, one on each side of the back, extend-
16
g2 BATRACHIA.
ing from the occiput to near the termination of the body, and upon
the head, from one eye to the other, a V-shaped patch, the summit of
which is directed posteriorly. The inferior surface is of a uniform dull-
yellow.
In the young, the ground color is light-green, with a few black spots
on the sides of the abdomen, exhibiting also the facial vitta, though
less distinctly. Inferiorly it is of a soiled white.
Specimens were collected on Puget's Sound ; the colored drawings
were made from life by Mr. Drayton.
Plate III, fig. 13, represents Hijla rerjilla, size of life.
Fig. 14, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 15, an under view of the same.
Fig. 16, under surface of the right hand.
Fig. 17, under surface of the right foot.
Fig. 18, represents the same species in an immature state of growth
2. HYLA CYANEA, Schleg.
Svx.—Hyla cyanea, SCHLEG. Abbild. Amph. 1837-44, 26. PI. ix, fig. 2.
OBSERV. — The only specimen of this species brought home from
Australia, by the Exploring Expedition, is a dried skin, so much
deformed in its prepared state, that we were unable to draw up any
accurate description.
The synonyms of this species, as quoted by Messrs. Dumeril and
Bibron (Erp. gen. VIII, 1841, 577), are all referable, except Schlegel's,
to Ranoidea aurea (Hyla jacksonie.nsis, DUM. & B.).
But Schlegel is not the originator of either the species or the
specific name. He took the name from Fitzinger, who borrowed it
from Daudin, and applied it to a distinct and well marked species ;
whilst Daudin's Hyla cyanea is nothing else but his Rana coenilea,
which is identical with Ranoidea aurea.
GENUS HYLODES, FITZ.
CHAR. — Vomerine teeth disposed upon two elongated series,
situated behind the inner nostrils. Tongue elliptical, posteriorly
BATRACHIAANOURA. 63
entire, and free upon the half of its length. Tympanum distinct.
Fingers and toes free, eubdepressed, provided, upon their extremi-
ties, with small disks. Abdomen smooth.
SYN.— Hylodes, FITZ. N. Class. Kept. 1826, 64.— DUM. & BIBR. Erp. gen. VIII, 1841,
619.
HYLODES PARVTJS, Grd.
(Plate III, figs. 24-28.)
CAR. SPEC. — Dentibus vomerinis in figuram V, ad verticem leviter inter-
ruptam, dixpositi-s. Lingua crassa et cordiformi. Palmarum etplan~
tarum digitis tenuibus. Colore ubiquefiisco.
SPEC. CHAR. — Vomerine teeth disposed upon a V-shaped figure, slightly
interrupted at the summit. Tongue thickish and cordiform. Fin-
gers and toes slender. Uniform dark-brown.
SYX.—ff</lodesparvus, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 423.
DESCR. — The head is nearly as broad as long, and, when viewed
from above, it has a subovoid appearance ; it gradually diminishes
anteriorly, the snout being rounded and declivous. Its upper surface
is almost even, although a shallow depression may be observed from
the occipital region to the nostrils. The latter are subelliptical, situ-
ated towards the upper surface of the snout, immediately beneath the
canthus rostralis, and much nearer the margin of the upper jaw than
the anterior rim of the eye. The phrenic region, posterior to the nos-
trils, is depressed. The eyes are proportionally well developed, promi-
nent, subcircular; their diameter being a little larger than the distance
between their anterior rim and the nostrils. The upper lid is smooth.
The interocular space is about equal to the diameter of the eye. The
tympanum is rather small, vertically ovoid, the narrowest end directed
upwards ; a vertical line drawn through its centre intersects the angle
of the mouth. The latter is proportionally large ; the tongue rather
small, subelliptical, thickish, free posteriorly upon one-third of its
length, and apparently entire. The inner nostrils are proportionally
large, ovoid, and far apart. The openings of the Eustachian tubes are
very conspicuous ; in shape, like the inner nostrils, and nearly as
(54 BATRACHIA.
large. The vomerine teeth constitute two quite elongated groups,
situated obliquely behind the inner nostrils; their posterior extremi-
ties approximate, though not contiguous, whilst anteriorly they would
pass along the outer margin of the inner nostrils if extended thither.
The body is comparatively short, not quite the two-thirds of the
length, the head included. The limbs are slender ; the fingers and
toes slender also, and terminated by comparatively small disks. The
anterior legs, when brought backwards alongside with the body, do not
extend beyond the groins. The articulations of the fingers are provided
beneath with quite conspicuous tubercles. There are two metacarpal
tubercles, one is elongated, situated at the base of the first finger, the
other circular, in a medial line with the palm of the hand, which is sub-
tuberculous. The hind legs are proportionally long, for, when brought
forwards, half of the tarsus projects beyond the snout. The toes are
subdepressed like the fingers, and provided with tubercles under their
articulations. The sole of the feet is smooth. A conspicuous meta-
tarsal tubercle exists at the base of the first toe, and a very indistinct
one outside of it.
The color, as preserved in alcohol, is uniform blackish-brown,
lighter beneath.
Collected at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Plate III, fig. 24, represents Hijlodes parvus, size of life.
Fig. 25, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 26, an upper view of the same region.
Fig. 27, under surface of the left hand.
Fig. 28, under surface of the left foot.
GENUS ELOSIA, TSCH.
GEN. CHAR. — Snout obliquely truncated. Vomerine teeth disposed
upon two groups, situated behind the inner nostrils. Tongue large,
subcircular or subelliptical, posteriorly entire, and adhering by most
of its under surface. Tympanum distinct. Eustachian tubes small.
Fingers free. Toes webbed at their base. Subdigital disks mode-
rate. Abdomen smooth.
SYN.— Elosia, TSCH. Mem. Soc. Sci. nat. Neuch. II, 1838, 77.— BUM. & BIBR.
Erp. gen. VIII, 1841, 632.
BATRACHIAANOURA. (55
1. ELOSIA NASUTA, Tsch.
(Plate IV, figs. 39-43.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Eyes large and prominent. Tympanum small. Legs
slender and elongated. Skin above, smooth, with small pustules.
Reddish-brown, maculated above ; sides dotted.
SYN. — Hyla nasua, LIGHT. Verzeichn. Doubl. Zool. Mus. Berl. 1823, 106. — FITZ. N.
Class. Kept. 1826, 63.
Elosia nasuta, TSCH. Mem. Soc. Sci. nat. Neuch. II, 1838, 36 & 77. — DUM. & BIBR.
Erp. g<Sn. VIII, 1841, 632.
DESCR. — The head is a little longer than broad, and forms about the
third of the length, the legs excepted. It is flattened above, and
slightly declivous upon the snout, the terminal outline of which, when
seen from above, is that of an obtuse triangle. The nostrils are sub-
elliptical, and situated midway between the anterior rim of the orbit
and the extremity of the snout, though on a profile view of the head
they would appear almost terminal. The sides of the snout are some-
what concave along the line of the canthus rostralis. The eyes are
large, subcircular. and prominent ; their horizontal diameter being
twice the distance between them and the nostrils. The upper lid is
smooth ; its outer margin is horny, and continued over the canthus
rostralis. The tympanum is subcircular ; its diameter being scarcely
half that of the eye, that is to say, comprised twice along the distance
between the eyes and nostrils. The mouth is proportionally large,
and the tongue thickish, depressed, and subelliptical in its outline, a
little narrower anteriorly, entire posteriorly, adhering by almost its
whole under surface ; the very margin alone, laterally and poste-
riorly, seemingly free. The vomerine teeth constitute two elongated
and oblique groups, placed between the inner nostrils. The latter are
subcircular and moderate in size. The openings of the Eustachian
tubes are very conspicuous and nearly as large as the inner nostrils.
The limbs are long and slender. In stretching the anterior ones
alongside the body, some of the fingers will extend beyond the poste-
rior extremity of the body, while the posterior ones are longer than the
body and head, by the entire foot. There is a large, flattened, meta-
17
66 BATE A CHI A.
carpal disk, and an elongated tubercle at the base of the inner finger.
The tubercles under the articulations are found: one to the first and
second fingers, and two to the third and fourth. The fourth finger is
shortest ; the second, a little longer than the first ; the third, always the
the longest of all. The toes are provided laterally with a membra-
nous fold, and webbed at their base. Their articulations are provided
beneath with small tubercles ; one to the first and second toes, two to
the third and fifth, and three to the fourth. The metatarsal tubercles
are very small, and not always readily distinguishable, especially the
outermost. The one situated at the base of the inner toe is more con-
spicuous, and has the shape of an elongated ridge rather than of a coni-
cal tubercle. A conspicuous, cutaneous fold exists along the inner
side of the tarsus. The skin is perfectly smooth all over the head,
body, and limbs, though the upper regions exhibit small pustules,
especially the back. A membranous ridge may be seen over the upper
margin of the tympanum.
The ground color above, is reddish-brown ; the body and head, ma-
culated with small spots and dots of a deeper brown extending all over
the head, snout, and jaws. These spots are much larger on the legs,
assuming upon the hind ones the shape of transverse bands.
The sides of the abdomen are dotted with white, and these white dots
extend somewhat posteriorly over the thighs. The inferior surface of
the head and chest is whitish ; the limbs, beneath, being reddish.
A small individual exhibits much larger, not confluent, spots on the
back.
The specimens are from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Plate IV, fig. 39, represents Elosia nasuta, size of life.
Fig. 40, is a side view of the head.
Pig. 41, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 42, under surface of the left hand.
Fig. 43, under surface of the right foot.
2. ELOSIA BUFONIUM, Grd.
(Plate IV, figs. 23-27.)
CAR. SPEC. — Ooulis magnis et eminentibus. Tympano modico. Cute
BATRACHIAANOTTRA. 67
laevi, sine pustulis. Supra fuscata, maculata ; infra vermiculata re!
unicolori.
SPEC. CHAR. — Eyes large and prominent. Tympanum moderate.
Legs small. Skin smooth, without pustules. Dusky-brown, dotted;
beneath, vermiculated or unicolor.
—Elosia bufonium, GKD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 423.
OBSERV. — The physiognomy of this species is widely distinct from
that of Eioxia ti'<*i(f(.i, though both species are closely allied by their
structure. The first trait which strikes most in their differentiation
consists in the shortness of its legs, which are, nevertheless, slender.
Next it will be observed that the body is shorter, when compared to
the head. The head itself is more bulky and its upper surface more
inclined on the snout. The latter is more obtuse, more elevated, more
inwardly truncated.
DESCR. — The head, somewhat broader than long, forms more than the
third of the length, the limbs excluded. The occipital region isconvex-
and the distance from the eyes to the snout very much inclined for,
wards. The terminal line of the snout, seen from above, is that of
an obtuse triangle, still more open than in E. nasuta ; the line of
the canthus rostralis is also less concave. The nostrils, subcircular
or subelliptical, are less prominent, though situated midway between
the anterior margin of the eye and the extremity of the snout. The
eyes, themselves, are large, subelliptical ; their horizontal diameter is
twice the distance between them and the nostrils. The upper lid is
smooth, but its horny margin does not extend along the canthus ros-
tralis. The tympanum is of medium size, and its diameter greater
than the radius of the eye, as is the case in the preceding species.
The mouth is broad and large ; the tongue suborbicular, rather thin,
especially upon its margin. The vomerine teeth constitute two small
and oblong groups situated between the inner nostrils, and somewhat
larger than in E. nasuta. The inner nostrils are subcircular, and also
larger than in E. nasuta. The openings of the Eustachian tubes are
smaller than the inner nostrils, though larger than in E. nasuta.
The legs are slender, but shorter than in E. nasuta, and the dilata-
tions of the fingers and toes less developed. The forelegs, when
68 BATBACHIA.
stretched alongside the body, scarcely reach its posterior extremity
with the tip of the longest finger ; the hind ones, from their insertion
to the base of the metatarsus, equal the body and head in length. The
fourth or outer finger is the shortest ; the first is a little shorter than
the second, and swollen upon its base. There is a subcircular and
flattened inetacarpal disk, and small tubercles may also be seen under
the digital articulations; the palm of the hand is smooth. The tarsus
is provided with a cutaneous ridge along its inner margin. The toes
are slightly webbed at their base, and provided laterally with a very
diminutive membrane; the third is longer than the fifth. The sole
of the feet is smooth ; there are two metatarsal tubercles, the inner-
most minute and conical, the other situated at the base of the first toe,
is larger and elongated. The articulations of the toes exhibit a small
tubercle beneath.
The skin is perfectly smooth throughout, without the slightest trace
of pustules or asperities. The body, head, and snout are dusky-brown,
with dots of a deeper brown and of white, irregularly spread all over,
the white dots forming an indistinct series on each side of the abdo-
men. On the posterior portion of the back the white spots have a
black dot in' their centre. An elongated, quadrangular spot of deep-
brown on the middle of the upper jaw, obliquely situated under the
anterior half of the orbit. A deep-brown vitta on the canthus ros-
tralis. A patch of the same color on the tympanum, extending back-
wards, tapering towards the shoulder. The inferior surface of the
head and belly are yellowish-white, vermiculated with chestnut-brown.
The legs and feet are reddish-brown, unicolor beneath, maculated above
with deep-brown patches, largest upon the thighs.
We consider as the male of this species a smaller individual, uni-
formly dusky-brown above, indistinctly maculated upon the thighs.
The inferior surface of the head and belly is uniform yellowish-white,
and the legs beneath light reddish-brown. The tympanum being also
proportionally larger. The first finger is provided above with a double
series of very small, conical, and horny, black tubercles, the inner series
composed of three, the outer series of but two or one only.
Specimens were collected at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Plate IV, fig. 23, represents Elosia bttfonium, size of life.
Fig. 24, is a side view of the head.
BATRACHIAANOTJRA. 69
Fig. 25, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 26, under surface of the right hand.
Fig. 27, under surface of the right foot.
3. ELOSIA VOMERIXA, Grd.
(Plate IV, figs. 17-22.)
CAR. SPEC. — Ocitlis tympanoque modicis. Cmribus longls et tenuibus.
Cute laei-i sine pustulis. Supra fuscata, postice macuiata. A latere
liiiea fusca.
SPEC. CHAR. — Eyes and tj?mpanum moderate. Legs long and slender.
Skin smooth, without pustules. Dusky-brown above, posteriorly
maculated. A lateral, deep-brown band.
STN. — Elosia vomerina, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Xat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 423.
OBSERV. — It is not without hesitation that we have placed this
species in the genus Elosia, on account of the peculiar disposition of
the vomerine teeth. Considering, however, the shape of the head,
the structure of the feet and toes, we have preferred to associate
it with the species described above until further investigations shall
have been made into the Herpetology of South America.
DESCR. — The head, a little broader than long, forms about the third
of the length, the legs excluded. It is subconcave, or flattened upon
its upper surface, with a very slight declivity towards the snout. The
latter is nearly rounded, its terminal outline forming a very open tri-
angle. The nostrils are small and subcircular, placed a little nearer
the tip of the snout than'the anterior rim of the orbit. The eyes are
large and subelliptical ; their longitudinal diameter being equal to the
rostral distance in advance of their anterior rim. The upper lid is
smooth, and its margin not prolonged over the canthus rostralis. The
tympanum is proportionally larger than in the preceding two species,
and its diameter is equal to the distance between the eye and the nos-
tril. The tongue is subcircular, discoid, broadly emarginated poste-
riorl\T, where it is free for about one-fourth of its length ; its edges are
free also. The vomerine teeth, situated between the inner nostrils,
18
70 BATRACHIA.
are disposed upon a transverse and rectilinear series, immediately in
advance of the anterior margin of the latter openings, and widely in-
terrupted in the middle. The inner nostrils, themselves, are subcir-
cular, proportionally smaller than in the preceding species. The
openings of the Eustachian tubes are smaller than the latter, but
quite distinct.
The body is elongated, raniform, broader than deep, narrowest pos-
teriorly, and continuous anteriorly with the head.
The limbs are slender, intermediate in length between those of E.
nasuta and E. bufonium. The dilatations of the toes and fingers are
proportionally small, and in that respect more like E. bufonium,
although the shape of the body be so widely different. The anterior
legs, when stretched alongside the body, reach the posterior extremity
of the trunk with the tip of their fingers. The posterior ones, when
brought forwards in a similar manner, extend beyond the snout, of
the whole length of the foot and half the metatarsus. The first fin-
ger is shorter than the second, both of which are provided with a sub-
articulary tubercle, whilst there are two of them to the third and
fourth. The palm of the hand is inconspicuously tuberculous ; a
rather large, subspherical, or subconical tubercle may be seen upon its
base. The base of the first finger is provided with a more elongated
and smaller tubercle. The toes are slightly webbed at their base,
and bordered with a membranous fold. The first toe, the shortest,
has but one tubercle underneath ; the others have each two. The
sole of the feet is perfectly smooth ; as to the metatarsal tubercles,
the outermost is small and subconical, whilst the other is elongated,
slightly raised, and resembles a rudimentary finger.
The skin is perfectly smooth throughout.
The ground color above, is fuliginous or yellowish-brown ; the head
and back provided with very obsolete spots, appearing almost unicolor,
except on the posterior third of the body, where small blackish-brown
spots are distinctly observed. Along the upper margin of the snout
and over the rostral distance to the eye, there is a deep chestnut-brown
or, mayhap, black vitta, which crosses the eye, passes above the tym-
panum, and extends along the back, to disappear entirely amidst the
spots on the posterior third of the body. The tympanum itself is
surrounded, and probably covered, by a deep-brown spot. A whitish
narrow band extends from beneath the eye to the shoulder, in passing
under the tympanum, where the band may be interrupted, leaving an
BATRACHIAANOURA. 71
oblong or a circular, white spot on the shoulder. From beneath the
angle of the mouth, a brownish streak extends to the arm. The legs
are more distinctly maculated than the body, and upon the hind ones
the blotches assume a transverse aspect, with intervening yellowish-
white spots. The sides of the abdomen are greyish-brown, vermi-
culated with whitish. The inferior surface of the head and belly is
dull yellowish-white, inconspicuously clouded ; the legs beneath are
uniform reddish-brown.
This species was collected about Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Plate IV, fig. 17, represents Elosia vomerina, size of life.
Fig. 18, is side view of the head.
Fig. 19, an upper view of the same region.
Fig. 20, the head, seen from beneath.
Fig. 21, under surface of the left hand.
Fig. 22, under surface of the left foot.
FAM. BTJFOSTDAE.
Xo teeth in the upper jaw, and none on the vomer. Tongue
posteriorly rounded. Parotid glands generally extant. Extremi-
ties of fingers and toes tapering. Skin warty, never completely
smooth.
S\-x.—Bu/onoidea, FITZ. Xeue Class, der Kept. 1826, 39.
Bufoniform.es, DCM. & BIBR. Erp. gen. VIII, 1841, 640.
OBSERV. — In this family, teeth are completely wanting ; the tongue
is never emarginated or bifurcated posteriorly, and in the genus Bufo,
by far the most numerous in species, are to be observed the so-called
parotid glands. In the latter genus, also, we find some species the
toes of which are palrnated ; whilst in others they are entirely free, as
is the case with the other genera, Rliinoderma excepted. As a general
rule, the skin is warty or verrucose to a degree never observed in either
Ranoids or Hyloids.
GENUS RHIXODERMA. DUM. & BIBR.
GEX. CHAR. — Tympanum hidden. No parotid glands. Tongue elon-
72
BATRACHIA.
gated elliptical, free upon the third of its length, entire or emarginated.
Eustachian tubes small. Fingers and toes depressed and tapering,
the former with a rudimentary basal membrane, the latter, semi-
palmated. A membranous projection of the snout. Males provided
with a subgular vocal bladder.
Sw—Rhinoderma, DCM. & BIBR. Erp. gen. VIII, 1841, 657.— BELL, Zool. Voy.
Beagle, V, 1843, 47.
OBSERV. — This genus was instituted for a small species, collected in
Chile, by Charles Darwin, during the voyage of H. M. Ship Beagle,
under Captain Fitzroy. It is a fact of very great interest to find another
species of the same genus on the Atlantic coast of South America, one
specimen of which having been collected at Rio de Janeiro by the
United States Exploring Expedition.
RHINODEKMA SIGNIFERA, Grd.
CAR. SPEC. — Plantarum digitis elongatis, a basi palmatis. Tuberculis
sub digitorum articulis. Colore fusco rubescente, olio punctato. Cru-
ribus posterioribus nigro fasciatis. Post occiput macula alba, elon-
gata. Ocella lumbali elliptica, leucoplicea. Abdomine maculato.
SPEC. CHAR. — Toes elongated, webbed upon their base. Tubercles
under the articulations of fingers and toes. Color above, reddish,
dotted with white. Hind legs barred with black. An elongated,
white, post-occipital spot. An elliptical, greyish, lumbar ocella.
Abdomen maculated.
SYN. — Rliinoderma siijnifera, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 424.
OBSERV. — The unique specimen of this species, preserved in the
collections of the United States Exploring Expedition, being in a
rather precarious state of preservation, the following description must
necessarily remain incomplete, much to our regret.
DESCR. — The general dimensions are about the -same as in R. dar-
wini, the head being comprised about twice in the length of the trunk.
The head, itself, is conical, almost as long as broad, slightly convex
B A T R A C H I A A X 0 U R A. 73
above, and, likewise, slightly declivous upon the snout, at the tip of
which the nostrils are situated, and between which a slight groove
may be traced to the occiput, along the middle line of the cranium.
The membranous proboscis is almost dried up, and reduced to a knob
upon the truncated part of the snout, in which state it resembles
Dendrobate-s, except in being narrower. The inner nostrils are large,
situated close to the maxillary, hence far apart from each other. The
openings of the Eustacbian tubes are very minute. The tongue ap-
pears to be quite elongated and entire posteriorly. The eyes are pro-
portionally large, subelliptical, their longitudinal diameter being equal
to the distance between the orbits and the end of the snout. The
interocular space, on the other hand, is equal to their diameter. The
tympanum is entirely hidden under the skin, and parotid glands are
not extant. The body is slender and elongated, not in the least bufo-
nine in its aspect, but rather recalling to mind the most slender forms
of the ranine group. The legs are slender also, the anterior ones are
shorter than the trunk. The fingers are united at their base by a
rudimentary membrane ; they are slender, their tip slightly swollen
beneath, each articulation being protected by a small, rounded tubercle.
The third finger is considerably the longest ; the first a little longer
than the second, which is almost equal to the fourth. The palm of
the hand exhibits small tubercles or granules, and upon its base is
seen a metacarpal, rounded knob. The posterior legs appear to hold
the same relation towards the body and head, as in R. dancini, that
is to say, if brought forward alongside of the body they would extend
beyond the snout, by the whole length of the foot. The toes are
slender and elongated, but slightly webbed at their base. Their
structure is the same as the fingers ; they are provided with small
tubercles under their articulations, and their tip is swollen beneath.
There are two quite conspicuous, metatarsal tubercles, the outer one
being the largest, subcircular, and conical.
The skin is perfectly smooth all over. There are two ovoid, lumbar,
proportionally large patches, one on each side, simulating the lumbar
glands in Pleurorlenia, the surface of which is apparently smooth.
The ground color above is reddish, minutely dotted with white, the
dots very much crowded on the sides of the abdomen, so as to give a
rather milky appearance to that region. Just behind the occiput on
the middle of the back may be seen an elongated and very regular
whitish spot, twice as long as wide and rounded upon its extremities.
19
74
B A T R A C H I A.
The lumbar patches are lighter, but upon their upper and posterior
portion may be seen a jet-black, oblong spot, with a narrow light inar-
o-in. A narrow black band commences behind the eyes, extends over
the shoulders, and becomes wider as it spreads over the sides of the
chest, but tapers towards the belly. A few transverse, jet-black bands
are observed on the hind legs and one or two upon the anterior ones.
Along the posterior, outer margin of the thighs, is a longitudinal, dark
streak, with an upper, lighter margin. The head beneath, the chest,
and the under parts of the legs, are reddish ; the latter vermiculated
with whitish. The belly is maculated with white and black.
This species was caught in the neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro,
Brazil.
GENUS BUFO, LAUR.
GEN. CHAR. — Tympanum more or less distinct. Parotid glands present.
Tongue elongated, elliptical, entire, or forked posteriorly, and more
or less free. Eustachian tubes moderate. Fingers free ; toes pal-
mated or subpalmated. Males generally provided with a subgular
vocal bladder.
SYN.— Bufo, LAUR. Synops. Kept. 1768.— DUM. & B. Erp. gen. VIII, 1841, 662.—
WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 206.
OBSERV. — The parotid glands and pustulous skin constitute the most
characteristic features of the toads, properly so called. The fingers,
four in number, and the toes, five, are depressed ; the former being
always free, whilst the latter are webbed to a greater or lesser degree.
A horny process may likewise be observed at the base of the inner
toe, and occasionally a second smaller one, outwardly.
1. BUFO BOREAS, B. & G.
(Plate VI, figs. 4-9.)
CAR. SPEC. — Capitis facie superiore plana ; cute Icevi, cahce non ad-
hcprente. Olandulis parotidis modicis. Tympano exiguo. Plica-
tura membranea in tarso. Plantar >im digitis palmatis. Supra vlridi,
BATRACHIAANOURA. 75
cum vitta flavea dorsuali ; pu$tulis rubescentibus. Infra albo sordido,
itlgro maculato.
SPEC. CHAR. — Upper surface of head, plane; skin not adhering to the
skull and smooth. Parotids moderate. Tympanum small. A mem-
branous, tarsal fold. Toes palmated. Green, with a dorsal, yellow
vitta; pustules reddish. Beneath, of a soiled white, maculated with
black.
SYN.— Bufo loreas, B. & G. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 174.— GBD.
in Proc. Acad. Xat. Sci. Philad. VII, 1854, 87.
DESCR. — With a total length of two inches and three-tenths, we find
that the head does not measure quite the third. The latter is very
much depressed, flattened or plane above, showing neither ridges nor
grooves, save a very shallow depression upon the middle of the snout.
It is rounded and very declivous from the nostrils to the margin of the
upper jaw, forwards and sideways. The interocular space, measured
across the middle of the eyes, is equal to the width of the upper lid.
The canthus rostralis is very slightly swollen; the nostrils are a little
nearer the eye than the notch of the upper jaw. The horizontal
diameter of the eye is equal to the distance between the anterior mar-
gin of the latter and the extremity of the upper jaw ; the upper eye-
lid is warty; the warts, generally small, are sometimes more developed
upon its internal periphery. Its external periphery' is corneous and
sharp. The tympanum is small, sometimes subcircular, at others sub-
elliptical; its diameter is less than half that of the eye. The parotids
are moderate in size, and subreniform in shape, situated horizon-
tally above the shoulders, anteriorly close to the orbit, and contiguous
exteriorly to the tympanum. Their surface is smooth anteriorly, whilst
posteriorly it exhibits small warts or tubercles. The pores are small
and numerous.
The mouth is large and the upper jaw emarginated. The tongue
is rather narrow and elongated, ovoid in its outline, and free upon the
posterior third of its length. The inner nostrils are distant, situated
close to the jaw, subtransverse and oblong in shape. The openings
of the Eustachian tubes are much smaller than the inner nostrils.
The limbs are well developed, although of a slender appearance.
The fingers are depressed and tapering to a point ; the first is longer
76
B A T R A C H I A.
than the second, which is the shortest. The articulations of the pha-
langes are provided beneath with tubercles of moderate development.
Their inferior surface is otherwise smooth, except a few scattered
granules, which may be observed on the palm of the hand. The
central metacarpal disk is large and subcircular. The inner one,
occupying the base of the first finger, is very conspicuous and propor-
tionally more developed than in any other North American species of
the genus. The hind limbs are longer than the body and head together,
of the whole length of the foot. The toes, themselves, are subdepressed,
tapering, and webbed to their very tip, the membrane being but slightly
emarginated. The tubercles under the articulations of the phalanges
are but a little larger than the granules, which are spread over the sole
of the feet. The inner metatarsal process is subconical and well
developed ; the outer one is quite depressed upon a broad base. The
metatarsus beneath is granular, and its inner lower edge provided
with a conspicuous membranous fold.
The skin above is covered with large pustules or small perforated
glands, secreting a viscous fluid, analogous to that secreted by the
parotids. On the anterior region of the body there is a tendency of
these glands to arrange themselves upon a double series, one on each
side of the dorsal line, slightly converging towards the occiput, hence
diverging towards the upper eyelid, where they unite with the series
above alluded to, as occupying the inner border of that organ. The
intervening space between the pustules is warty, verrucose, or subtu-
berculous. Underneath, the warts are very crowded and large. The
anterior limbs are smooth above, warty anteriorly and beneath. The
posterior ones have the same appearance as the upper surface of the
body. The upper part of the foot and the anterior part of the tarsus
and tibia are smooth. The snout, the sides of the head, and interocular
space are perfectly smooth.
The ground color is of an intense green, with a yellow dorsal vitta,
extending from the interocular space to the posterior extremity of the
body. A yellow tint, sometimes intermingled with a reddish hue,
predominates over the limbs, especially the hind ones. The parotids,
the pustules, and the glandulse, are reddish. The inferior surface of
the bedy is of a soiled white, maculated with black ; under the head
and thighs, unicolor, dull-yellowish. The interdigital membrane
being purplish.
BATRACHIAANOURA. 77
Specimens of this species were collected up Puget Sound, Oregon, in
May, 1841. A sketch from life was made at the same epoch.
Plate VI, fig. 4, represents Bufo boreas, size of life.
Fig. 5, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 6, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 7, the head, seen from beneath.
Fig. 8, the under surface of the right hand.
Fig. 9, the under surface of the left foot.
2. BUFO COLUMBIENSIS, B. & G.
(Plate V, figs. 4-9.)
CAR. SPEC. — Capitis facie superiore plana. Cute calvae adhaerente et
granulata. GlanditKa parotid/is parvis. Tympano parvo. Plicatura
membranea in tarso. Plantarum diyitis pal mails. Supra virides-
cente, cum maculis niyris et punctis rubescentibus. Yitta alba dorsuali.
Sub oculo macula obUqua. Infra flavo sordido, maculato.
SPEC. CHAR. — Upper surface of head plane. Skin adhering to the
skull and granulated. Parotids small. Tympanum small also. A
membranous tarsal fold. Toes palmated. Light-greenish, with
black blotches and reddish spots. A dorsal, white vitta. An
oblique, dark patch beneath the eye. Inferiorly, of a soiled yellow,
maculated.
SYN.— Bufo columbiemis, B. & G. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 378. —
GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VII, 1854, 87.
OBSERV. — The characters by which this species can be distinguished
from B. boreas. consist in the comparative length of the forearm, arm,
and hand, which are almost equal in length in B. columbiemis, whilst
in B. boreas, the forearm is longer than either the arm and the hand ;
both pairs of limbs are longer too, and, in the posterior pair, the foot
is the region which is the most developed. The membrane which unites
the toes is more deeply emarginated in B. columbiensls than in B. boreas;
the inferior surface of the hands and feet is conspicuously granulated
in the former, and nearly smooth in the latter. In B. columbiensis the
20
78 BATRACHIA.
skin upon the head is rather thick, granular, and adhering to the skull,
whilst in B. boreas it is thin, loose, and smooth. The parotid glands
are smaller in the species which we now describe.
DESCR. — The entire length of the specimen figured, the only one
apparently full-grown amongst those collected, is a little more than
three inches and a half, the head constituting nearly the fourth of
that length. Viewed from above, the head is subtriangular, broader
than long, the snout being almost abruptly truncated, another feature
which will distinguish this species from B. boreas. Its upper surface
is slightly depressed, without any ridges or groove, but densely covered
with small tubercles. The interocular space, measured across the
middle of the eyes, is greater than the greatest width of the upper lid,
whilst it is equal to it in B. boreas. The canthus rostralis is slightly
swollen ; the nostrils, situated immediately beneath its anterior extre-
mity, are much nearer to the orbit than to the notch of the upper jaw.
The upper eyelid is tuberculous. The tympanum is quite small and
subcircular. The parotids, rather small, elongated, narrowest ante-
riorly, are situated horizontally over the shoulders ; they approximate
anteriorly the eye and externally the tympanum ; they are perforated
with comparatively few, but large pores. The upper jaw is emargi-
nated ; the tongue large and elongated ; the inner nostrils transversely
oblong and small, and the openings of the Eustachian tubes much
smaller still.
The limbs are very long and of slender appearance. The fingers
are stout, subdepressed ; the tubercle under their first articulation is the
only one well developed. The palm of the hand and under surface of
the fingers are rugose and tuberculous. The central metacarpal disk
is large, rounded, and depressed ; the inner one being much the smallest,
scarcely larger than the subarticulary tubercle of the inner finger. The
first, second, and fourth fingers are almost equal in length ; the third
is, as usual, the longest. The hind limbs are somewhat longer than
the body and head together ; they are, as already alluded to, shorter
than in B. boreas. The toes are depressed, and the membrane,
although extending to their tips, is nevertheless more deeply emargi-
nated than in B. boreas. Tubercles may be seen under each articu-
lation of the phalanges, although none are conspicuous. The soles of
the feet is densely covered with small granules. The metatarsus,
beneath, is also provided with small granules, and its inner and lower
BATRACHIAANOURA. 79
edge with a membranous fold, less developed, however, than in B-
boreas. The process at the base of the inner toe is very prominent
and subconical. The second or outermost is less elevated.
The skin above, is provided with small glands or pustules, similar
in structure to the parotids, being perforated with small pores. These
glandulse, however, are smaller than in B. boreas ; the largest are
observed upon the hind limbs. In B. columbiemis, these small glands
are irregularly scattered all over the surface of the body. The inter-
mediate space is covered with small warts and granules. The upper
part of the fore limbs and hands, the inferior surface of the thighs, the
tarsus all around, and the feet above, are covered with a minute granu-
lation. Beneath, the skin is warty, the warts being more apparent
under the belly than under the legs, chest, and head.
The ground color is light-greenish ; a dorsal, white vitta extends
from the occiput to the posterior extremity of the body. Large,
irregular patches of brownish-black are observed over the upper
region of the body and limbs, confluent on each side of the dorsal
vitta, and also upon the flanks, assuming the shape of transverse bars
on the legs, where they are larger than elsewhere. The papillae, the
parotids, the warts, the granules, and tubercles are reddish. The
upper surface of the head is yellowish-brown, and its sides green.
Tympanum blackish, with spots all around it. The margin of the jaws
is whitish. An oblique, elongated, black patch may be seen under
the anterior part of the eye, extending from the margin of the upper
jaw, obliquely upwards and forwards. A small black spot covers the
nostrils, and another may be observed under it, upon the middle of
the snout, whilst a third one is seen occupying the margin of the
upper jaw, between the latter two. The iris is reddish-orange. The
inferior surface is dull-yellowish or whitish, maculated with blackish
under the chest, sides of belly, and under the limbs.
In very small and immature specimens many of the characters
ascribed to this species are already conspicuous. The web of the toes
appears to be still less developed than in B. boreas.
Specimens were collected on Columbia River, Oregon. Drawn from
life.
Plate V, fig. 4, represents B. columbiensis, size of life.
Fig. 5, is a side view of the head.
C '
g0 B A T R A C H I A.
Fig. 6, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 7, the head, seen from beneath.
Fig. 8, under surface of the right hand.
Fig. 9, under surface of the right foot.
3. BUFO MARINUS, Schn.
(Plate V, figs. 1-3, and Plate VI, figs. 1-3.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Upper surface of head depressed in the middle, and pro-
vided with ridges. Skin adhering to the skull. Parotids varying
in size. Tympanum moderate. A tarsal, horny ridge. Toes semi-
palmated. Color variable.
SYN. — Rana marina americana, SEBA, .... I, .... 120, Tab. LXXVI, fig. 1.
Rana marina, LINN. Syst. Nat. edit. X, I, 1758, 210, et ed. XII, I, 1766, 356.—
GMEL. Linn. Syst. Nat. I, iii, 1788, 1049.— LAUR. Synops. Kept. 1768, 31.
JBufo agua, LATE. Hist. nat. Kept. II, 1801, 13, fig. 1.— BAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. VIII,
1803, 209 ; et Hist. nat. Rain. Gren. Crap. 1803, 99, PL xxxvu.— Cuv. Regn. anim.
II, 1817, 97, et 2de edit. 1829, 111.— Snx, Spec. Nov. Test. Ran. Bras. 1824, 44,
Tab. xv.— WIED, Reise nach Bras. I, 1820, 52, & II, 1821, 241, et Rec. PI. Col.
Anim. Bres.; & Beitr. Naturg. Bras. I, 1825, 551. — TSCH. Mem. Soc. Sci. nat. Neucb.
II, 1838, 88.— DUM. & BIBR. Erp. gen. VIII, 1841, 703.
Bufo horridus, DAUD. Hist. nat. Rept. VIII, 1803, 201 ; et Hist. nat. Rain. Gren.
& Crap. 1803, 97, PI. xxxvi.
Bufo humeralis, BAUD. Hist. nat. Rept. VIII, 1803, 205.
Bufo maculiventris, SPIX, Spec. Nov. Test. Ran. Bras. 1824, 43, Tab. xiv, fig. 1.
B. lazarus, SPIX, Spec. Nov. Test. Ran. Bras. 1824, 45, Tab. xvii, fig. 1.
B. stcllatus, SPIX, Spec. Nov. Test. Ran. Bras. 1824, 46, Tab. xvm, fig. 1.
B. sealer, SPIX, Spec. Nov. Test. Ran. Bras. 1824, 47, Tab. xx, fig. 1.
B. albicans, SPIX, Spec. Nov. Test. Ran. Bras. 1824, 47, Tab. xvm, fig. 2.
B. icterus, SPIX, Spec. Nov. Test. Ran. Bras. 1824, 44, Tab. xvi, fig. 1. — GRAVENH.
Delic. Mus. Zool. Vratisl. I, 1829, 54.
B. ornatus, SPIX, Spec. Nov. Test. Ran. Bras. 1824, 45, Tab. xvi, fig. 2. — GRAVENH.
Delic. Mus. Zool. Vratisl. I, 1829, 61.
B. marinus, SCHN. Hist. Amph. I, 1799, 219. — MERR. Tent. Syst. Ampb. 1820,
182.— GRAVENH. Delic. Mus. Zool. Vratisl. I, 1829, 54.
Bombinator horridus, MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 179.
Lepaule armee, DAUB. Diet. anim. vertebr. 1790, 624. — LACEP. Hist, quadr. ovip.
I, 1789, 539.
La grenouille epaule armee, BONNAT. Ency. meth. Erpet. 1789, 6, PL in, No. 2.
Marine toad, SHAW, Gen. Zool. Ill, i, 1802, 155, PI. XLIV.
BATRACHIAANOURA. gl
OBSERV.- — There is perhaps no species of the bufonine group which
has been described under the same variety of specific names as the
present one. Besides the unusual variations observable upon individuals
of nearly the same size and age, differences occur between individuals
at different ages of growth. The most striking of these differences
consist in the variation in the shape of the parotid glands : rhomboi-
dal, sometimes nearly as wide as long, at other times more than twice
as long as broad, and tapering posteriorly into a somewhat acute angle.
They may further assume an elliptical shape, from twice or three times
as long as broad. These bodies, in the three desiccated specimens
brought home by the Expedition, exhibit a subelliptical shape, the
length of which is a little more than twice their width. Other dif-
ferences, comparatively superficial, are observed in the coloration, of
which we speak below, having a few more remarks to make with
regard to structure.
^-i
DESCR. — To whatever extent the variations just alluded to may go,
it will always be easy to recognize the marine toad (B. marinus or
agua}, by the structure of the upper surface of its head, upon the
middle of which a broad depression, tapering forwards and widening
behind, may be seen. It is limited anteriorly and laterally by a con-
spicuous ridge, constituting an acute angle, extending from the tip of
the snout to the eyes. The ridge thence extends over the eyes, slightly
diverging from the medial line of the cranium, and passing behind the
orbit, to meet a subcrescentic and transversal ridge, situated above the
tympanum. In advance of the eye, and extending vertically over the
line of the canthus rostralis, a similar swollen ridge exists, being con-
nected above with the supra-orbital one. Thus, the eyes are surrounded
superiorly, anteriorly, and posteriorly with an elevated ridge. The
cephalic groove, posteriorly, is even with the surface of the body.
Occasionally, a swelling may be observed, extending from the poste-
rior curve of the lateral ridge obliquely towards the occiput, the sur-
face of which is striated or furrowed. The snout is almost perpendi-
cular in front; the nostrils are situated immediately beneath the ridge.
The eyes are large, almost circular. The tympanum, though conspi-
cuous, is comparatively of moderate size, ovoid, or subcrescentic,
oblique. The parotid glands, anteriorly contiguous to the supra-tym-
panic ridge, extend over the shoulders, a little obliquely downwards.
21
g2 BATRACHIA.
Their thickness gives quite a broad appearance to that part of the
body ; the pores are not numerous and far apart.
The body is subelliptical, longer than broad. The limbs are well
developed. The first finger is longer than the second, which is the
smallest ; the third is the largest ; the fourth resembles the first.
The dried state of the specimens did not allow a further study of the
toes.
All over the upper part of the body and limbs are scattered glandu-
lous tubercles of various sizes. Generally a double series, larger than
the rest, are observed on the dorsal region. On the sides of the abdo-
men they are also more conspicuous. These tubercles are either
smooth or provided with small spines, which, in the latter case, give
the animal a somewhat rougher appearance. Beneath, the skin is
always smooth, though wrinkled or folded in an irregular mesh work.
The ground color of the largest specimen is yellowish-white, mottled
with black or brownish-black. Two elongated patches of black extend
from the head to the posterior extremity of the body, along the back,
leaving free a dorsal medial area of the ground color. The upper
surface of the limbs is mottled. The upper surface of the head, the
ridges, and the margin of the jaw, are brownish-black. The parotids
exhibit a bluish reflection over the general tint. Beneath, the color
is dull yellowish-white.
Another variety of coloration exhibits a brownish-green ground, with
dark spots over the body, each of which spots as well as the interme-
diate spaces, being filled with smaller spots. The eyes and tympanum
are emerald-green. The specimens exhibiting this variation of color
have the skin studded with small asperities, whilst in the former it is
quite smooth.
Procured at Rio de Janeiro, December, 1838, near the coast, and
sketched from life.
Plate V, fig. 1, represents Bufo marinus, size of life.
Fig. 2, is the under surface of the left hand.
Fig. 3, the under surface of the right foot.
Plate VI, fig. 1, represents another variety of the same species.
Fig. 2, being the right hand, seen from beneath.
Fig. 3, the under surface of the right foot.
BATRACHIAANOURA. gg
4. BITO GRACILIS, Grd.
(Plate VI, figs. 16-21.)
CAR. SPEC. — Ckipitis facie suj» rinre corvxi' Glandulls parotidis
exiijiii-y. Ti/inpniti) iH'Kjito. PUcatura m>'iitbniitea in tarso. Plan*
t<iritut iliijiti* xubp'dinafi*. Cute fjranulahi. Xapra fusco-flavesc>nt>:,
cum viffa j/'trm Jorsuali ; dorso et crurilm lii<- l/lic maculatis. Infra
luteo.
SPEC. CHAR. — Upper surface of head concave. Parotids exiguous.
Tympanum large. A membranous, tarsal fold. Toes subpalmated.
Skin granular, yellowish-brown above; a dorsal, yellow vitta; back
and limbs irregularly spotted. Beneath dull-yellow.
^•s.—Bufoyracilis, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1S53, 424.
OBSERV. — The physiognomy of this species partakes more of the
ranine group than the following one, having a more elongated body
and a proportionally smaller head. The limbs, however, appear as if
cast in the same mould, being slender and elongated, and the toes
but slightly palmated. The parotids, likewise, are small, but more
exiguous, and the tympanum greater. The lateral glandulous stripe
is a feature which B. luyubrosu* does not possess. In regard to the
head, it is the same sharp snout, and terminal situation of the nostrils;
the same depression and ridges of the skull, and the body similarly
warty, though the warts are proportionally smaller. This particu-
larity of being provided with warts is common to many species of
toads, and does, therefore, not constitute a specific trait.
DESCR. — The head forms about the two-sevenths of the entire
length ; it is nearly as long as broad, and seen from above, it is tri-
angular ; slightly truncated upon the snout, which is rather promi-
nent, and obliquely inclining inwards, the upper part overhanging the
lower. The nostrils are obliquely situated towards its extremity,
beneath the canthus rostralis, which is but slightly apparent. The
upper surface of the snout, from the eyes to its tip, is perfectly even,
sloping forwards; the sides of the same are almost abrupt. The
ftfmBRSITT]
84
BATRACHIA.
interocular and postocular regions are broadly concave. The eyes are
proportionally large and circular ; their anterior rim is protected by a
small ridge : a downwards continuation of the can thus rostralis. There
is also a postocular ridge : a downwards continuation of the supra-orbital
or supra-tympanic ridge. Their diameter is much greater than the
distance between their anterior rim and the extremity of the snout.
The upper lid is covered with small warts and granules. The tym-
panum is regularly elliptical, oblique, rather large, very distinct, but
smaller than the eyes. The parotids constitute an elongated swell-
ing, contiguous anteriorly to the supra-tympanic ridge, and posteriorly
to a glandulous, abdominal, cutaneous fold, of which we shall say a
few words further on. The mouth is large ; the upper jaw ernargi-
nated ; the tongue elongated, club-shaped, laterally and posteriorly
free, anteriorly slightly bifurcated. The inner nostrils are very large
and subcircular ; the openings of the Eustachian tubes being rather
small and inconspicuous.
The limbs, fingers, and toes, are still more slender than in the follow-
ing species ; the first finger is longer than the second, and but a little
shorter than the third; the fourth is the shortest, and the most exiguous.
The palm of the hand is granular, and the articulations of the fingers
are provided beneath with small tubercles. There is a quite large,
subcircular, metacarpal disk, and a small tubercle at the base of the
first finger, but not conspicuous. The toes are but slightly webbed
and subdepressed like the fingers. The sole of the feet is densely
granular, and the tubercles under the articulations of the toes are
small and conical. An elongated tubercle may be seen at the base of
the inner toe, and two metatarsal ones, smaller and less conspi-
cuous. The tarsus is provided internally with a membranous fold.
The skin on the head and dorsal region, properly so called, is
minutely granular ; on the sides of the abdomen the granulation is
larger and more dense, intermingled with small papula3'Or pustules.
A cutaneous ridge may be traced from the parotids to the groins.
The legs, themselves, down to the fingers and toes, are densely covered
with granules, still more apparent than on the sides of the abdomen,
but the pustules do not extend beyond the elbows and knees. The
lower surface of the head, that of the body and legs, is densely
studded with small granules, a little more conspicuously posteriorly
than anteriorly.
BATRACHIAANOURA. 85
The upper part of the head, back, and limbs is yellowish-brown ;
the limbs are somewhat darker, blotched with blackish. There is a
narrow, yellow vitta extending from the occiput to the posterior part
of the body. On each side of this vitta, and contiguous to it, we
observe angular, black patches, some of which are quite large, others
small, extending from the occiput to the posterior third of the back.
The iris is golden-yello\v ; the tympanum deep-chestnut, and the
surrounding space black. The parotids and the glandulous, lateral
ridge, are yellowish. The sides of the abdomen are light-yellow, with
blackish-brown mottlings immediately beneath the glandulous ridge.
This species has a general resemblance to B. ornatus, of Spix, also
• from Rio de Janeiro, but on comparison will appear sufficiently dis-
tinct from the latter.
One specimen was obtained at Rio de Janeiro, in December, 1838,
and a drawing made from life by Mr. Drayton.
Plate VI, fig. 16, represents Bufo gracilis, size of life.
Fig. 17, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 18, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 19, is the head seen from beneath.
Fig. 20, under surface of the right hand.
Fig. 21, under surface of the left foot.
5. BUFO LUGUBROSUS, Grd.
(Plate VI, figs. 10-15.)
CAR. SPEC. — Capitis facie superiore sulcata. Glandulis parotidis
mod ids. Tympaito parvo. PUcatura membranea in tarso. Plan-
tarum di<ji.tis siibpulmatis. Cute glandulosa et granulata. Supra
sub/nyro, maculato ; infra candido-luteo.
SPEC. CHAR. — Upper surface of head grooved. Parotids moderate.
Tympanum small. A membranous, tarsal fold. Toes subpalmated.
Skin glandulous and granular. Bluish-black above, maculated.
Beneath dull yellowish-white.
ST.X.— Bufo luyulrosus, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 424.
22
gQ BATRACHIA.
OBSERV. — The head and body of this species present a most bufo-
nine appearance, whilst the limbs and toes would rather recall to
mind a Rana, or better, a Cyetignathue. If we add that it is possessed
of large and circular eyes, and that the body is covered with con-
spicuous warts, its physiognomy will assume a combination of both the
bufonine and ranine groups.
DESCR. — The head is much broader than long, maintaining its
width towards the snout, the periphery of which is rounded. Its
surface is concave, from the occiput to the extremity of the snout,
assuming the aspect of an open groove, broadest posteriorly, tapering
anteriorly, and bordered laterally by the canthus rostralis and a slight
ridge along the inner edge of the orbit ; upon the occiput the groove
is even with the surface of the body. The canthus rostralis, itself, is
well developed, and by the union of the two ridges upon the snout,
constitutes a prominence, beneath which and close to the end of the
snout, are situated the oblique and elongated nostrils. Just in advance
of the eye, the canthus rostralis is considerably swollen into a kind of
pyramid, whence a ridge extends downwards to near the inferior rim
of the orbit. There is also a prominent, postocular ridge. The eyes
are very large, circular ; their diameter is greater than the distance
between their anterior rim and the extremity of the snout. The
upper lid is thick and covered with warts and granules. The inter-
ocular space, measured across the middle of the eyeball, is nearly
equal to the rostral distance in advance of the eye. The parotids are
of medium size, subelliptical, contiguous to the postocular ridge, and
overlapping the tympanum as much as the ridge itself. The pores are
minute and crowded, and the surface of the gland is covered with
granules, more conspicuous than the pores themselves. The tym-
panum is proportionally small, occupying a kind of depression, which
is rendered more apparent by the elevation of the postocular ridge
and the projection of the parotids, though situated near the lower part
of the side of the head. The mouth is very broadly cleft ; the upper
jaw is emarginated. The inner nostrils are very large and subcircular.
The tongue is rather thin, narrowest anteriorly, where it is slightly
bifurcated. The openings of the Eustachian tubes are comparatively
small, but quite distinct.
The limbs are long and slender, and so are the fingers and toes.
The first finger is longer than the second and almost as long as the
BATRACHIAAXOURA. 87
third ; the fourth is but little shorter than the second. There are
tubercles under the articulations, but the palm of the hand is smooth;
there is a very large, subcircular, metacarpal horny disk, and a smaller,
elongated one, at the base of the first finger. The toes are but slightly
palmated ; they are quite depressed, like the fingers. The first is, as
usual, the smallest, and provided upon its base with an elongated
tubercle ; there are also two metatarsal horny disks, subcircular in
shape. The articulations, beneath, exhibit each a tubercle, and the
sole of the feet, small granules. The tarsus is provided along its
inner edge with a thick membranous fold.
The skin has a quite rough appearance, owing to the presence of
large pustules or warts, distributed all over the back, sides, and limbs,
to the elbow and knees. These pustules are much larger and more
prominent on the dorsal region, being small on the sides of the head,
on the abdomen, and anterior part of the limbs. The whole upper
surface of the head, body, and limbs throughout is minutely granular,
The inferior surface of the body, head, and limbs has a rather
smooth appearance; on the arms, thighs, and sides of abdomen the
pavement-like warts are somewhat more conspicuous.
The head and dorsal region are of an apparently uniform bluish-
black hue ; reddish-grey upon the sides ; a black patch on the tym-
panum ; a black vitta on the sides of the abdomen, and- black patches
on the limbs; the fingers and toes being reddish. The inferior surface
is of a soiled yellowish-white.
The specimen, as preserved in alcohol, has been much contracted
by the liquid. As to the color, it is described from the sketch made
from life by Mr. Dravton, in January, 1839. In alcohol, the ground
color appears now yellowish-green, maculated or clouded with black.
Obtained at Valparaiso, Chile.
Plate VI, fig. 10, represents Bufo lugulrosus, size of life,
Fig. 11, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 12, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 13, the head, seen from beneath.
Fig. 14, under surface of the left hand.
Fig. 15, under surface of the right foot.
88 BATRACHIA.
6. BUFO THAUL, Less.
(Plate V, figs. 15-19.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Upper surface of head even ; canthus rostralis swollen.
Parotids moderate. Tympanum small. A membranous tarsal fold.
Toes semi-palmated. Skin tuberculous, greyish-brown above, spotted.
Beneath whitish, maculated.
SYN.— Bnfo (haul, LESS. Voy. Coq. Zool. II, i, 1830, 63, PI. vn, fig. 6. (Nee Rana
thaul, MOLINA, Hist, de Chile, I, 1788, 194.)-— TSCH. Faun. Peruan. Herp. 1845,
19.
Bufo chilemis, DUM. & B. Erp. gen. VIII, 1841, 678. (In part.)
OBSERV. — There is, perhaps, no species the synonymy of which is
more intricate and more difficult to elucidate than the present one.
Rana thaul, of Molina (vid. Synonymy), is still wrapped up in ob-
scurity, and ought to be made the subject of careful researches by
either travelling or resident naturalists. Schneider (Hist. Amph. I,
1799, 227), refers it with doubt to the genus Bufo. Daudin (Hist.
des Rain. Gren. & Crap. 69, & Hist. nnt. des Kept. VIII, 136), and
Merrern (Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 182), have copied Schneider.
Lesson figures and describes, under the name of B. thaul, a species of
toad widely distinct from R. thaul, of Molina. Tschudi, himself,
seems to have understood the subject, since he omits the references
anterior to Lesson's ; but Tschudi ought to have given a new name
to the present species, in order to avoid any further misunderstanding.
We must repeat here, what we have already stated under the head
of Pleurodema bibroni, that the description of B. thaul in the letter-
press of the Zoology of the " Voyage de la Coquille" is under the head
of B. arunco. The references to the figures are likewise transposed.
DESCR. — Out of nine specimens, collected by the Expedition, the
largest was but one inch in total length, the legs excluded. The
head is broader than long, subtriangular, flattened above, declivous on
the snout, which is rounded. The canthus rostralis is well developed,
sending downwards a small ridge in advance of the eye, which does not,
however, extend as far as the inferior rim of the orbit. The nostrils
BATRACHIAANOURA. 89
are obliquely situated towards the upper surface of the snout, immedi-
ately beneath the canthus rostralis, almost terminal. The eyes are
prominent, though not very large ; their horizontal diameter is nearly
equal to the rostral distance in advance of the orbit.
The margin,of the lid is thick, and densely covered with granules,
a series of which may be observed along its outer edge. The tym-
panum is subcircular, distinct, and rather small. The parotids are
very much swollen, subcircular in shape, prominently extending over
the upper rim of the tympanum. The upper jaw is very slightly
emarginated; the tongue is oblong, narrowest anteriorly and bifur-
cated, whilst it is entire and rounded posteriorly.
The fingers are provided with small tubercles under each of their
articulations, and the palm of the hand with granules. The meta-
carpal tubercle is large, rounded, and depressed ; that at the base of
the first finger is elongated and much the smallest. The membranous
ridge along the inner margin of the tarsus is quite prominent, and
almost contiguous to the outer metatarsal tubercle, at the base of the
first and smallest toe. The toes themselves are semi-palmated,
depressed, like the fingers, and provided with tubercles under their
articulations ; the sole of the feet being possessed with series of
granules.
The whole upper region of the body is provided with small warts and
minute granules, from the tip of the snout to the base of the meta-
carpus and metatarsus. The parotids are as thickly covered with
them as any other region ; they are less crowded on the sides of the
head. The sides of the abdomen are provided with warts only, but
larger than those on the back. The skin beneath is smooth, save
the flattened glands common to many species.
The color above is uniform greyish-brown, with a few small yel-
lowish spots upon the posterior region. Some of the specimens exhibit
blackish patches over a greyish ground. In others the granules appear
like yellow dots. The margin of the jaws, the sides of the head, and
abdomen, show traces of black markings. The ground color beneath
is white or yellowish-white ; the abdomen is maculated with deep-
black ; sometimes the abdomen appears entirely black by the con-
fluence of the blotches, leaving but few specks of the ground color.
From Valparaiso, Chile.
23
BATRACHIA.
Plate V, fig. 15, represents Bnfo thaul, size of life.
Fig. 16, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 17, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 18, under surface of the right hand.
Fig. 19, under surface of the right foot.
7. BUFO POEPPIGII, Tsch.
SPEC. CHAR. — Upper surface of head plane. Parotids narrow and
elongated. Tympanum very small. A membranous tarsal fold.
Toes subpalmated. Skin pustulous. Reddish-brown above, macu-
lated. Beneath white, with a medial black line.
SYN. — Bufo poeppiijii, Tscn. Faun. Peruan. Herp. 1845, 71.
OBSERV. — The only batrachian which fell within the reach of the
Expedition, while on the coast of Peru, is a small toad, one inch and
a quarter in length, and which answers to the species described in
the " Fauna Peruana," under the name of B. poeppiyii, which appears
to be a rather small species. The specimen before us is smaller than
the one described by Tschudi.
DESCR. — The head is subpyramidal, when seen from either above or
below. In profile it resembles more a flattened disk. The upper
surface is almost plane, from the occiput to the tip of the snout, which
is prominent and vertically truncated. The oblique nostrils are situa-
ted towards the upper part of the extremity of the snout, from which
extremity it is only separated by a small protuberance, which gives
to the snout its prominent feature. There is no can thus rostralis
distinct from the surface of the snout. Behind the nostrils, and
obliquely situated on the sides of the snout, may be seen a shallow
depression. The eyes are proportionally large ; their diameter being
greater than the distance between the anterior rim of the orbit and the
extremity of the snout. The upper lid is covered with small granules,
similar to, but somewhat larger than, those seen on the head. The
upper jaw is slightly emarginated. The tongue is elongated, subhemi-
BATRACHIAAXOURA. g\
spherical. The inner nostrils are very conspicuous, and quite distant
from each other. The tympanum is very small, vertically subellipti-
cal, and inconspicuous. The parotids are very narrow, elongated,
extending beyond the insertion of the anterior limbs, and tapering off
backwards into, a series of small glands, along the sides of the abdo-
men.
The limbs, themselves, are proportionally small and slender. The
anterior ones, when brought alongside the abdomen, reach the
region of the groins with the extremity of the fingers, whilst the
hind ones are equal in length to the body and head together. The
first finger is conspicuously longer than the second ; the fourth is the
slenderest and shortest of all ; the third, as usual, is the longest.
Tubercles exist under each articulation, and granules under the palm
of the hand. There is a very large subcircular, metacarpal tubercle,
and another much smaller and elongated one at the base of the first
finger. The toes are slender and but slightly palmated ; the third
is a little longer than the fifth. Their articulations are, likewise,
provided underneath with small tubercles, and the sole of the feet is
covered with granules. Of the two metatarsal tubercles, the inner
one is the most conspicuous, and contiguous to the membranous ridge
along the inner margin of the tarsus.
The skin is provided with small pustules and granules, extending
all over the upper parts of the head, body, and limbs. Pustules,
alone, are to be seen on the sides of the abdomen, under the thighs,
head, and belly ; the latter appearing almost smooth.
The ground color above is reddish-brown, with a medial, dorsal, iu^
distinct, black line. A pair of subtriangular brownish-black spots,
one on each side of the posterior part of the head, extending over the
upper lid. An oblique narrow patch behind each eye. Larger and
irregular patches of the same color are disposed on each side of the
back (two pairs in our specimen), intermingled with small spots. A
brownish-chestnut band may be seen on the line of the canthus ros-
tralis, from the eye to the tip of the snout. In advance of the eye,
and extending across the middle of the upper jaw to its margin, is
seen a black band, directed obliquely forwards. From the eye to the
shoulder, and across the tympanum, extends a large, subquadrangular,
black patch, connected with a narrow, lateral vitta. extending from
the shoulder to the groins. The side of the abdomen, beneath the
vitta, is dotted with greyish-black. Patches of brownish-black or
92 BATRACHIA.
chestnut are observed on the upper surface of the limbs, much more
conspicuously posteriorly than anteriorly. The inferior surface ap-
pears as if washed with yellowish-white ; a black line may be observed
along the middle of the belly.
Obtained on the coast of Peru.
8. BUFO MELANOSTICTUS, Schll.
(Plate V, figs. 10-14.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Upper surface of head ridged; canthus rostralis ele-
vated. Parotids large. Tympanum moderate. Membranous
tarsal fold. Toes semi-palmated. Skin pustulous. Reddish-brown
above ; reddish-yellow beneath, dotted with black.
SYN. — Bvfo melanoslictus, SCHN. Hist. Amph. I, 1799, 216. — GRAVENH. Delic.
Mus. Zool. Vratisl. Amph. 1829, 57.
Bufo sealer, BAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. VIII, 1803, 194 ; et Hist. nat. Rain. Gren. &
Crap. 1803,94, PI. xxxiv, fig. 1.— LATR. Hist. nat. Kept. II, 1801, 134.— TSCH. Mem.
Soc. Sci. nat. Neuch. II, 1838, 88.— BUM. & B. Erpet. gSn. VIII, 1841, 699.
Bufo lengalensis, BAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. VIII, 1803, 197 ; et Hist. nat. Rain. Gren.
& Crap. 1803, 94, PL xxxv, fig. 1.
Bvfo carinatus, GRAY, Illustr. Ind. Zool. I, 1832, PI. LXXXIII, fig. 1.
Bufo dubia, GRAY, Illustr. Ind. Zool. I, 1832, PI. LXXXIII, fig. 2.
Crapaud du Bengale, LESS. Voy. de Belanger, Ind. Orient. Zool. 1834, 335.
OBSERV. — The few specimens of this species, caught at the southern
extremity of the Peninsula of Bengal, being immature, it is but after
a long and protracted examination and comparison with the descrip-
tions of the writers upon this subject that we have come to their iden-
tification. The task has proved the more difficult as we lack an accurate
figure of the adult animal. The only one extant is given by Daudin,
under the name of B. bengalensis, which is identical with B. scaber,
figured by the same author, but so poorly as to render it of no avail
in a. critical point of view.
In order to afford naturalists the means of identifying with accuracy
the species now before us, we have caused figures to be made,
although the specimens are immature. Should we have mistaken
BATRACHIAANOURA. 93
their true affinities or relationships, any error in that respect will be
more readily corrected than from our description alone.
Upon a careful examination of Plate LXXXIII, of the " Illustrations
of Indian Zoology," it will clearly appear that the figures of Bufo
carinatus and B. dubia, are identical with B. melanoetictus of
Schneider, or B. scaber of the French herpetologists. The general
shape of the body and head are most strikingly alike, as also the
granulation of the skin and pattern of coloration. In B. carinatus,
indeed, the warts are less developed ; but similar variations are of
frequent occurrence, and, in this case, could not be considered as a
specific difference.
DESCR. — The head, viewed from above, is triangular, almost as long
as broad, its sides being very declivous. The snout is truncated,
almost abruptly. The nostrils are lateral, nearly terminal, imme-
diately beneath the canthus rostralis. The upper surface of the head
is slightly concave ; from the tip of the snout, a double ridge, the
canthus rostralis, extends, diverging to the eyes, hence, obliquely
down in front of the orbit, to terminate half-way to the angle of the
mouth. A similar ridge is observed along the upper rim of the
orbit, connecting the cauthus rostralis, at the place where the latter
turns downwards in front of the eye, and extending obliquely behind
the eye, to pass in advance of the tympanum, after having sent off a
rather thick branch to the parotid glands, immediately across the
upper edge of the tympanum. The upper lid is covered with minute
granuliform glandulse. The tympanum is subcircular or vertically
ovoid. ' The upper jaw is very slightly emarginated, and the lower
one exhibits, upon its symphysis, a small knob.
The parotid glands are rather narrow and elongated, rounded at
both extremities, extending beyond the shoulders, and slightly convex
inwardly. Small granules are irregularly spread over their surface ;
the pores being seen between the granules, and a good deal smaller
than the latter.
The limbs are rather long and slender ; the first finger, which is as
long as the fourth, is a little longer than the second ; the third is the
longest. The toes are semi-palmated. There are two tubercles at the
base of the carpus; the inner one being the smallest. Minute granules
exist on the inferior surface of the fingers and toes, more conspicuously
than upon their upper surface. The tarsus has, likewise, two tubercles
24
QJ. BATRACHIA.
at its base, and the innermost is also the smallest. The tips of the
fingers and toes are horny, oftentimes black. Granules or tubercles
cover the whole upper surface of the body and limbs, with a double
dorsal series of quite large pustules, sometimes not very conspicuous.
The color, as preserved, is of a uniform reddish-brown above, and
reddish-yellow beneath, with small black dots on the chest, margin of
jaws, and under surface of the limbs.
Specimens were collected at Singapore.
Plate V, fig. 10, represents Bufo melanostictus, size of life.
Fig. 11, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 12, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 13, under surface of the right hand.
Fig. 14, under surface of the right foot.
GENUS BUFONELLA, GIRARD.
CAR. GEN. — Tympana distincto. Rirotidis ylandulis nullis. Lingua
elongata, postice latiore, aliquant ilium libera et emarginata. Palma-
rum plantarumque digitis eubcylindrida, non palmatis. Gate tuber-
culosa.
GEN. CHAR. —Tympanum distinct. No parotid glands. Tongue
elongated, broadest posteriorly, and somewhat free and emargi-
nated. Fingers and toes subcylindrical and free. Skin tuber-
culous.
Svy.—Bufonetta, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 424.
OBSERV. — This genus is allied to Bufo, from which it differs chiefly
by the want of parotid glands and the absence of web. From all
the other genera of the bufonine group it may be distinguished by the
visibility of the tympanum. It is allied to Engystoma and Breviceps,
in having the toes free, but differs from both of them, besides the
visible tympanum just alluded to, by an elongated and conspicuous
head, separated from the body by a somewhat contracted neck.
BATRACHIAAXOURA. 95
BUFONELLA CRUCIFERA, Grd.
CAR. SPEC. — Cdlore supra fusco, flavis punctis consperso. Yitta flava
dorsuali, i/t 'Innitliu corj>oris posteriore. Cruce flavea in summo
capite ; macula Jiava in bracJiio prope axillam. Infra fusco-niyre*
scente, cum maculis Jfaveia, Diyitorum extremitatilus flavis.
SPEC. CHAR. — Deep-brown above, dotted with yellow. A dorsal,
yellow vitta on the posterior half of the body. A yellow cross on
the top of the head ; a yellow spot upon the forearm near the
axilla. Beneath, blackish-brown, with yellowish maculae. Tips
of fingers and toes yellow.
SYX. — Bufonetta end/era, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Xat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 424.
DESCR. — The head forms a little less than the third of the entire
length, the limbs excluded. Viewed from above, it is regularly ovoid,
the snout being rounded and declivous anteriorly and sideways. It is
depressed, a little broader than long, and concave upon its upper sur-
face, between and posteriorly to the eyes. In advance of the eyes it is
flattened, seems gradually rising to the nostrils, while the declivity of
the snout towards the margin of the jaw is quite conspicuous. The
nostrils are small and pyriform, situated towards the upper surface,
near the declivity of the snout and somewhat nearer the margin of
the upper jaw than the anterior rim of the eyes. The latter are of
medium size, subelliptical in shape, their diameter being equal to the
distance between them and the extremity of the snout. The upper
lid is quite developed, externally horny and thin, projecting consider-
ably in the middle. The interocular space is equal to the longitu^
dinal diameter of the eye. The tympanum is proportionally large,
assuming an irregular subtriangular shape. It is situated close to the
eye and immediately above the angle of the mouth. Though quite
distinct it is not conspicuous, owing to the looseness of the skin. Tbe
mouth is moderately cleft. The tongue is elongated, club-shaped,
broadest posteriorly, slightly emarginated, and free for about one-third
of its length. The inner nostrils are small and circular, situated quite
anteriorly towards the margin of the roof of the palate. The open-
ings of the Eustachian tubes are smaller than the inner nostrils.
9Q BATE A CHI A.
The body is elongated, subcylindrical, a little broader than deep,
and preserving well its dimensions posteriorly. The legs are slender
and long ; the anterior ones, when brought backwards alongside with
the body, extend as far as the groins. The fingers are subcylindrical
and tapering, with a rounded tip ; the first being shorter than the
second, which is equal to the fourth. The articulations are provided
beneath with rounded tubercles. The palm of the hand is subtuber-
culous. At the base of the metacarpus may be seen two conspicuous
horny disks, the innermost being the largest. The posterior legs are
scarcely longer than the body and head together ; the inner margin
of the tarsus has neither a membranous fold nor any horny ridge.
The metatarsal tubercles are quite small, the outer one hardly
perceptible. The toes are subcylindrical, tapering, terminated by a
rounded knob, and provided with tubercles under their articulations.
The sole of the feet is smooth.
The skin is subtuberculous on the back, and glandulous under the
thighs and posterior part of the belly.
The ground color is deep-brown above, with a yellow, dorsal vitta
on the posterior half of the body only. A yellow bar extends from
eye to eye across the upper surface of the head, while another bar, at
right angles with the former, runs along the middle of the snout to
its extremity. A yellow spot may be observed upon the posterior
surface of the anterior portion of the forearm, near the axilla. The
inferior surface is blackish-brown with yellowish maculse. The tips
of the fingers and toes are yellow.
Specimens were collected in Australia.
GENUS METAEUS, GIRARD.
CAR. GEN. — Tympana celato. Parotid is glandulis nullis. Lingua
subdliptica, postice integra, per dimidium longitudinis libera. Pal-
marum plantarumque digit-is subcylindricis, non palmatis. Duobus
tuberculis in metatarso. Gate puslulosa.
GEN. CHAR. — Tympanum hidden. No parotid glands. Tongue
subelliptical, posteriorly entire, and free upon the half of its length.
BATRACHIAANOURA. 97
Fingers and toes subcylindrical, not palmated. Two metatarsal
tubercles. Skin pustulous.
SfN.—Metacus, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 424.
OBSERV. — The absence of parotid glands is a trait which this genus
has in common with Bufonella, differing from the latter chiefly by
the visibility of the tympanum. The fact of the tongue being entire
upon its posterior margin, whilst it is emarginated in Bufonella, goes
still further towards establishing its claims as a genus.
METAEUS TIMIDUS, Grd.
CAR. SPEC. — Capiie magno, antice rotundo. Cute parvls pustulis
munita. Colore fusco-viridescente, nifjris maculis consperso. Yiita
a rostro, trans oculum, ad annum pot-recta.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head large and rounded anteriorly. Skin beset with
small pustules ; greenish-brown above, maculated with black. A
vitta extending from the snout, across the eye, to the shoulder.
SYN. — Metaeus timidus, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1853, 424.
OBSERY. — This, the only species so far known of its genus, is quite
diminutive iu size ; the greatest length of its body and head together
not measuring more than an inch.
DESCR.— The head forms the third of that length ; it is depressed,
almost flat upon its upper surface, and rounded upon the snout. It
is a little longer than broad, and, when viewed from above, has an
ovoid appearance. The body, itself, is elongated, narrowest posteriorly,
the general aspect being more ranine than bufonine. The legs are
proportionally small, though quite as much developed as in many
ranoids. The entire absence of both palatine and maxillary teeth
entitles it to a place amongst bufonoids. The inner nostrils are very
large, oblong-shaped, in the longitudinal direction of the head. The
openings of the Eustachian tubes are exceedingly minute. The tongue
is of medium size, subcircular, or subelliptical, entire posteriorly, and
25
98 BATRACHIA.
free upon the half of its length. The eyes are of medium size, ellip-
tical in form, their longitudinal diameter being equal to the distance
between their anterior rim and the extremity of the snout. The inter-
ocular space is broader than the eyelid. The nostrils are elevated,
situated at the upper, terminal end of the snout, though equidistant
between the eyes and the margin of the upper jaw. There are no
parotid glands. The tympanum is entirely hidden under the skin.
The forelegs are almost exiguous, and, though short, reach the
groins when brought backwards alongside with the body. The
fingers are subcylindrical ; the first one longer than the second, which
is nearly equal to the fourth ; the third being the longest. The arti-
culations are all provided beneath with conspicuously developed
tubercles, and the tip of the fingers slightly swollen beneath, into a
tuberculous-like knob. Smaller tubercles may be seen on the palm
of the hand, arranged in series in the direction of the fingers, each
series composed of at least two tubercles. There is a comparatively
large, horny, metacarpal disk, and a horny knob at the base of the
first finger. The hind legs are slender but not very long ; measured
from their origin to the base of the fifth toe, they equal in length the
head and body together. The toes exhibit the same structure as the
fingers ; there are but a few small granules on the sole of the feet,
situated towards the base of the toes. The inner metatarsal tubercle
is elongated ; the outer one is rounded. The inner edge of the tarsus
exhibits a very inconspicuous horny ridge.
The skin is smooth, although provided above with small pustules,
spread over the head, body, and legs, though fewer on the latter.
The ground color above, is greenish-brown. A deep chestnut-brown
vitta starts from the margin of the upper jaw, ascends the snout
towards the nostrils, thence along the line of the canthus rostralis to
the eye, and passing over the latter, extends obliquely down to near
the insertion of the anterior limbs. A transverse brown patch is
observed upon the occiput, between the eyes. A larger patch of the
same color is seen on the anterior portion of the* trunk, and another
still smaller, upon its posterior portion. These three patches are
united together by means of diverging, narrow branches, giving the
back a stellated appearance. Transverse narrow bars of brownish-
black are observed upon the legs, more conspicuously on the poste-
rior than on the anterior ones, where two such bars only are seen.
The hands and feet above are maculated. Underneath, the color is
B A T R A C H I A A X 0 U R A. 99
dull-yellow, under the head and abdomen, with a few small black spots
on the latter region. The legs being reddish, with indistinct yellowish
dots.
Found at Valparaiso, Chile.
GENUS BRACHYCEPHALUS, FITZ.
GEX. CHAR. — Head and back protected by osseous shields. Tym-
panum hidden. No parotid glands. Tongue elongated, entire
posteriori}7, and free for about half its length. Fourth finger, first
and fifth toes rudimentary. No metatarsal tubercles.
s, FITZ. N. Class. Kept. 1826, 39.— BUM. & BIBR. Erp. g6n.
VIII, 1S41, 7-20.
Ephtppipher, COCT. in Guer. Mag. de Zool. 1835, Glass. Ill, PI. vn & vui.
OBSERV. — The small batrachian, which is the type of this genus,
was first described about thirty years ago, when it was referred to the
genus Bufo, by Spix. In 1826, Fitzinger proposed for it the genus
Brachycephalw, since adopted by all herpetologists, although Cocteau,
in 1835, expressed the wish that the latter name should be replaced
by that of Ephippipher, on the ground that its etymology is the same
as Bf.-cicep*, another genus of batrachians. There are many instances
of the same kind in the zoological nomenclature. To introduce changes
similar to the one just mentioned, would be productive of serious mis-
haps and drawbacks to real scientific progress.
Cocteau's paper on these batrachians may be considered a good
monograph of the genus, and must be consulted by whoever shall
undertake writing upon the subject. There is one error in it : the
supposition that teeth exist upon the upper jaw and palate. It is
now well established that neither maxillary nor palatine teeth are
found in the genus Brachycephalus, Cocteau having been led into the
above error by the desiccated state of the specimens at his command,
and which were procured at Rio de Janeiro.
The question now is, whether B. aumntiacus is identical with Bufo
ephippittm of Spix. Cocteau is inclined to think that they are dif-
ferent species, upon the ground that the former is of a uniform orange
100
BATRACHIA.
color, whilst the latter has the upper region of the head and the dorsal
shield black. Should, however, no other differences be detected, one
might well object to look upon the coloration alone as constituting a
valid distinction between two species. The original of B. epldp-
pium has never been compared with the specimens described by the
French herpetologists who have written upon the subject since Spix.
The brevity of the descriptions of both Spix and Wagler do not afford
sufficient means of comparison between species.
Such being the state of things, we have preferred to record the
specimens collected by the United States Exploring Expedition, under
the name of B. aurantlacus, the specific name of Cocteau, satisfied that
the further investigation of the question will be better subserved in
keeping apart what cannot be satisfactorily united.
BRACHYCEPHALTJS AURANTIACUS, Grd.
(Plate V, figs. 20-24.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Tongue long and narrow. Sides of abdomen and origin
of the thighs beneath, glandulous. Color, uniform orange.
SYN. — Ephippiplier aurantiacus, COOT, in Guerin, Mag. de Zool. 1835, Cl. Ill,
Plate vn.
DESCR. — The general appearance of this species is that of a diminu-
tive toad. The head is flattened above and below, wedge-shaped, a
little broader than long, and forming about the third of the length of
the animal. The snout is rounded upon its extremity. The nostrils
are proportionally large, oblong, obliquely situated sideways, nearer the
extremity of the snout than the anterior rim of the eyes. The latter
are proportionally large, subcircular, occupying the whole space between
the maxillary and the upper surface of the head. Their diameter is
greater than the distance between their anterior rim and the extremity
of the snout. The interocular space is greater also than their diameter,
hence, proportionally quite large. The tympanum is hidden under the
skin. The mouth is of medium size, although its angles do not extend
as far back as the posterior rim of the eyes. The upper jaw and palate
are toothless. The inner nostrils are circular ; situated close to the
maxillary and the anterior part of the roof of the mouth. The open-
ings of the Eustachian tubes are quite small. The tongue is elon-
RATRACHIA ANOURA. 1Q1
gated and narrow, posteriorly rounded, and free for almost the half
of its length. There are no parotid glands.
The body is broader than deep, subovoid in shape, when viewed
from above. The limbs are very slender, and the fingers tapering.
The anterior legs, when stretched alongside the trunk, do not reach
the posterior extremity of the body, although they extend beyond the
groins. The fourth finger is indicated exteriorly by a small knob; the
first by a minute point. The second is better developed, half the
length of the third, which is depressed, and the most conspicuous of
all. No membrane uniting the fingers. The palm of the hand is
smooth, and upon its base may be seen a rudimentary, metacarpal
tubercle. The hind legs are a little longer than the body and head
together. The first and fifth toes are rudimentary, like the fourth
finger ; the second toe is half the length of the third, and the latter
is half the length of the fourth, which is conspicuously the longest ;
the third and fourth are subtuberculous under their articulations.
The sole of the feet is smooth ; there are no metatarsal tubercles, not
even in a rudimentary state.
The upper surface of the head is covered by an osseous shield, leav-
ing the extremity of the snout naked. An osseous, rounded protu-
berance may be seen at the place occupied by the parotids, when the
latter exist, and contiguous to the cephalic shield. Across the ante-
rior part of the back is a large saddle-like shield, of the same osseous
nature, in advance of which, on the middle line of the body, is a small
subcordiform plate. Sometimes two or three of these small plates are
seen in a longitudinal series. There are other instances of fragmentary
pieces posteriorly to the saddle-like piece, but evidently detached from
the latter, which, itself, is subjected to some variations of outline.
The remaining portion of the back not occupied by the shields is
covered by a smooth skin, exhibiting occasionally some small tubercles
in longitudinal series. The skin over the legs is perfectly smooth.
The sides of the abdomen are glandulous, as also the posterior portion
of the thighs. The skin on the inferior surface of the head and the
belly is glandulous.
The color is of a uniform orange.
Specimens of this species were collected at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil,
in December, 1838, when a drawing from life was made by Mr.
Joseph Drayton.
26
102 BATRACHIA.
Plate V, figs. 20 and 21, represent BracJiyceplialus aarantlacus,
from above, and size of life.
Fig. 22, is a view from beneath.
Fig. 23, under surface of the left hand.
Fig. 24, under surface of the right foot.
0 P H I D I A.
1855.
ORDO II. OPHIDIA.
THE Serpents or ophidian reptiles constitute the most characteristic
order of the Class. Their body is elongated, generally rounded,
narrow, and, in most cases, • diminishing towards both extremities.
There are neither limbs nor fins disposed in pairs on the sides of the
body, as in most lizards, salamanders, all the toads and frogs, and
tortoises. There are, however, a few instances in which rudiments
of posterior limbs make their appearance outwardly, under the shape
of horny knobs or hooks. The jaws are endowed with the property
of being highly dilatable, and thus permit a large prey to enter the
buccal cavity. Acerated or hook-like teeth exist upon the jaws gene-
rally, and also upon the palatine and pterygoid bones. The eyes are
either rudimentary or else well developed ; in no case is there a
movable eyelid. The organ of audition is not made apparent out-
wardly ; there being neither an aperture nor a tympanic membrane.
Their skin is rather tough, capable of great extension, beset with
scales or granules, and covered by a continuous epidermis, which is
cast and reproduced several times during the year.
Such are the most striking characters of the order of reptiles we
are now treating of. More detailed information may be found in the
" Erpe tologie generale."
The want of a more complete series of ophidians, either in this or
other collections available for our investigations, has rendered the ar-
rangement of the following ones into families, one of the most difficult
point. The classification recently proposed by Dumeril, we could not
adopt o priori, and lacking the proper materials to satisfy ourselves
as to the value of the families by him established, we renounced alto-
gether heading these groups, placing the genera one after the other,
according to their apparent zoological affinities.
27
OPHIDIA.
GENUS SABRINA, GIRAKD.
CAR. GEN. — Capite depresso, subovato. Scuto rostmll sub rostro recur-
vato. Nare inter scutum nasalem et frontonasalem sita. Scuti alii
sunt: praeocularis seu postnasalis, frontalis, 'postoculo-labialis, parie-
talis, et postparietalis.
GEN. CHAR. — Head depressed, subovoid. Rostral plate extending
under the snout ; one nasal and one fronto-nasal : nostril between
them. A preocular or postnasal plate. A frontal. A postoculo-
labial. A parietal, and a postparietal.
SYN. — Sabrina, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sei. Philad. August, 1857.
OBSERY. — This is one of the so-called worm snakes, Scolecophides,
or vermiform ophidians, and the only one in the collection of the
United States Exploring Expedition. It is the same as was observed
by Tschudi, a brief account of which is given in the "Fauna Peruana"
of the same author.
The Scolecophides have been divided into two families by Dumeril
and Bibron, the Typhlopians and the Catodonians. Tschudi referred
his species to the former, and, according to our own observations, it is
to enter the latter, since we found the teeth upon the lower jaw instead
of the upper.
At the same time, we had to frame a new genus, distinct at the
same time from Catodon and Stenostoma, the only two, so far known,
of that group.
SABRINA TESSELLATA, Grd.
(Plate XV, fig. 7-9.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Middle of scales blackish-brown, with a lighter margin
increasing in width beneath. Tip of tail whitish.
SYN. — TypUops tessellatum, TSCH. Faun. Peruan. Herp. 1845, 46.
Sabrina tessellata, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. August, 1857.
S A B R I X A T E S S E L L A T A. 1Q7
DESCR. — The head is continuous with the body, very slightly
swollen upon its middle, the snout being prominently rounded and
protruding beyond the lower jaw. Its upper surface is depressed.
The rostral plate is the largest of the cephalic series, occupying the
convexity of the snout, and rather more expanded beneath than
above, though wider upon its middle. On each side of the rostral,
and extending likewise from the margin of the upper jaw to the
upper surface of the head, is to be observed a nasal plate, broadest
upon its middle, where a small nostril is situated, just upon the con-
vexity of the snout. The ocular plate starts from the very margin of
the upper jaw, spreading as it ascends, and, towards its anterior upper
edge, may be seen the eye, of rather large proportion. A narrow pre-
ocular extends from the margin of the jaw, between the nasal and
the ocular, meeting upwards with a similarly elongated, but little larger,
suroculary or oculo-frontal, as there is no other plate of that name.
A large postoculo-labial plate occupies the region extending from the
ocular plate to the angle of the mouth, where it is met by the scales
of the neck. Immediately above the postoculo-labial may be observed
a parietal and a postparietal, both very similar in size and shape. The
vertex region of the head is occupied by three subhexagonal scales,
being a direct continuation of the dorsal series.
The mouth, seen from beneath, constitutes a semi-elliptical curve.
The inferior labials are very similar to the adjoining submaxillary
scales, which, in their turn, are but a trifle smaller than the abdo-
minal ones. The teeth are exceedingly small and exiguous.
The body, about four inches in total length, is subcylindrical in
shape, almost of the same thickness from head to tail, which is
slightly tapering and conical at the apex. Fifteen longitudinal rows
of scales may be counted as surrounding the body. The scales them-
selves are proportionally well developed, imbricated, subhexagonal in
general appearance, and a little smaller under the belly than over the
back. The tail, about twice the length of the head, is surrounded by
scales of the same appearance and structure as those of the body.
There is a large, semicircular, preanal scutella.
The centre of each scale being either chestnut or blackish-brown,
while their margin is of a light-yellow or straw color, the body
assumes the appearance of being streaked with dark and light stripes,
particularly when the dark spots unite anteriorly and posteriorly with
their fellow, which is sometimes the case along the upper region of
108 OPHIDIA.
the body. On the head and beneath, the general hue is lighter, owing
to a greater development of the light margin of the scales and the
isolation of their central dark spot.
LOG. — This species inhabits the coast of Peru ; the specimen de-
scribed was collected in the rafters of houses at Callao.
Plate XV, fig. 7, represents the head of Salrina tessellata, viewed
in profile.
Fig. 8, is an upper view of the same ; and
Fig. 9, an under view, exhibiting the outline and shape of the mouth.
All these figures are magnified about four times, in order to show
more distinctly the various plates.
GENDS CYLINDROPHIS, WAGL.
GEN. CHAR. — In this genus there are teeth in the upper and lower
jaws, on the palatine and pterygoid bones ; none on the premaxil-
laries. The pupil is circular; the nostril situated within one plate.
The internasal plates are absent; the cephalic ones, seven in number.
Neither a loral nor any anteorbitals ; one postorbital only. The
scales are smooth, surrounding the entire body, so that there are
no abdominal scutellse, transversely elongated, contrasting with the
dorsal scales. The subcaudal scutellaa are entire, and very similar
to the ordinary scales of the upper region.
SYN.— Cylindrophis, WAGL. Natur. Syst. AmpU. 1830, 195.— BUM. & BIBR. Erp.
g6n. VI, 1844, 590.
OBSERV. — In drawing up the characters of the genus Cylindropliis,
we have had for our sole guidance the species recorded below, and
therefore may have to be remodelled so as to include other species.
Then, again, the question will recur as to the validity of the genus
llijsia, of Hemprich, a question to be settled by the comparative study
of all the species referred to both of these genera.
CYLINDROPHIS RUFA. 109
CTLINDROPHIS RUFA, Gray.
SPEC. CHAR. — Tail conical, shorter than the head. Body above
black, brown, or rufous, either uniform or provided with obsolete,
transverse, white bars ; a white collar about the neck ; head and
extremity of tail black ; a white spot on the frontal plates. Beneath
white and black in alternate bauds.
SYS. — Anyuis rufa, LACK. Synops. Kept. 1768, 71. — SHAW, Gen. Zool. Ill, ii,
1802, 586.
An-juis rti/us, GMEL. Linn. Sjst. Nat. Ill, 1788, 1123. — SCHN. Hist. Ampb. II,
1801, 333.
Anyuis striatus, GMEL. Linn. Syst. Nat. Ill, 1788, 1119.
Anyuis scytale, Rcss. Ind. Serp. Suppl. 1801, 30, PL xxvn.
Anyuis corallina, SHAW, Gen. Zool. Ill, ii, 1802, 582, PL cxxxi.
Eri/x rufa, BAUD. Hist. Xat. Kept. VII, 1803, 263.
Tortrix rufa, MERE. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 84. — GRAY, Syn. Kept, in Griff.
Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 74.— SCHIXZ, Naturg. Abbild. Kept. 1834, 131, PL XLVni,
tig. 2.— SCHLEG. Ess. physiogn. Serp. I, 1837, 128, & II, 9, PL i, fig. 1-3.— FILIP.
Catal. region. Serp. JIus. Pav. 1840, 13.
Scytale seheuchzcri, MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 91.
Uysia rufa, LiCHTEXsx. Verz. Doubl. Zool. Mus. Berl. 1823, 104.— FITZ. N. Class.
Kept. 1^2t.i. 54.
Cyllndfop'his rufa, GRAY, Zool. Miscell. 1842, 46.— DUM. & BIBB. Erp. gen. VI,
1844, 595, i VII, i, 1854, 30.
Cylindrophis nifus, CASTOR, Journ. Asiat. Soc. XVI, 1847, 53.
DESCR. — The head is subconical, of moderate development. The
snout is rounded. The eyes quite small and circular. The occipital
plates are but a little larger than the scales immediately behind them.
The vertex plate is conspicuous, subtriangular, with its summit directed
backwards, whilst its base is somewhat convex. There is but one
pair of frontal plates properly so called ; they are the largest on the
upper surface of the head. In advance of the latter, we observe a
pair of fronto-nasals, towards the inferior part of which the nostril
opens. The rostral is small and pyramidal, and entirely enclosed by
the fronto-nasals. The first labial is the smallest of the series ; it is
subquadrangular, transversely elongated, occupying the space opposite
the fronto-nasal plate. The second and third labials are superiorly
contiguous with the frontal ; the third is the largest, and, together
28
OP HID I A.
with the fourth, constitute the lower portion of the orbit; the anterior
portion being formed by the frontal. A subquadrangular postorbital
is situated between the fourth labial and the supraoculary plate, which
is subtriangular, and a little smaller than the vertex plate. The fifth
and sixth labials, smaller than the third and fourth, assume the shape
of the temporal shields, which are larger than the occipitals, and, con-
sequently, larger than the scales about the neck. There are, likewise,
six lower labials ; the third, fourth, and fifth being the largest, whilst
the sixth is the smallest. The symphyseal is quite small and entirely
enclosed by the first pair of labials. The subgular scales are longer
than broad, in which respect they differ from those of the abdomen,
which are broader than long.
The neck is so slightly contracted that the head is almost continu-
ous with the body, which is thicker on its posterior than on its anterior
portion. The scales are smooth and shining, a little smaller on the
dorsal than on the abdominal region. They are subrhomboidal in
shape, longer than broad on the back, broader than long on the ab-
domen, and both dimensions nearly equal on the sides. There are
no abdominal scutellae, though the middle series of scales is slightly
larger than the adjacent series, but not different in shape. We count
twenty longitudinal series of scales across the middle region of the
body, and upwards of two hundred transversal ones from the nape to
the origin of the tail. The tail is very short and conical, exhibiting
six small subcaudal scutellae. The total length of the specimen de-
scribed is seventeen inches.
Its color is lustrous-black above, with very faint traces of transverse
light bars covering thirteen dorsal series of scales, thus embracing the
back and the upper half of the sides, the lower half of which and the
abdomen, being white and black, in alternate transverse bands, some-
times interrupted upon the middle of the abdomen, the black being a
little broader than the white, and not in contiguity with the black of
the upper region. The head and the tip of the tail are black. There
is a white narrow ring continuous under the neck, and interrupted
above. A whitish spot is also to be observed upon the frontal plates.
Loc. — The specimen described was obtained at Singapore.
AV E X 0 N A.
GEXIS WEXONA, B. & G.
CHAR. GEN. — Rostra ultra inferiorem maxillam producto. Ocuh's parvu-
li&fimis. Scuta vert ids ample et breve. Scutis frontalibus in dua
aid tria paria dispositis ; occipitalibm pan-is. Scuti alii sunt :
praefronto-nasalis et postnaadKs, inter quos est naris in sutura sita ;
lore i is sire cum post/rontalis coalescente sire distincto ; anteorbitalis
unu.s; postorbitales duo aut })lure$ ; temporales numerosi. Sqiiamis
laecibus, in quadraginta quinque series longitudinales dispositis. Scu-
tella postabdominali, seu praeanali, indivisa ; subcaudalibus similiter
iiidici-sis. Cauda breve cum apice obtuso. Colore imiforme.
GEN. CHAR. — Snout protruding beyond the lower jaw. Eyes very
small. Vertex plate broad and short. Two or three pairs of
frontals. Occipitals small. A prefronto-nasal and a postnasal;
the nostril placed between them. Loral united to the postfrontal
or else separated. One anteorbital ; two or more postorbitals.
Temporal shields numerous. Scales smooth, disposed upon forty-
five longitudinal series. Postabdominal scutella entire. Subcaudal
scutellae entire also. Tail short, bluntly terminated. Unicolor.
STN.— Wenona, B. & G. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 176 ; & Catal. N.
Amer. Kept. I, 1853, 139.
OBSERV. — There are, so far, but two known genera of the group of
Boidae within the limits of the United States and Territories, Wenona
and Charina, both of which being provided with vestiges of posterior
limbs and a tail that is not prehensile. We regret not having at our
command specimens of Charina bottae, in order to institute between it
and the species of TT ^nona a critical comparison, since the two genera
appear to us most intimately related. In Charina, the subcaudal
scutellae appear to be a good deal smaller than in Wenona, as
exhibited by the figure of Tortrix bottae, Blainv. (the type of Gray's
genus Charina), published in the " Nouvelles Annales du Museum
d'histoire naturelle," for 1835. There are several other prominent
differences between these two genera, according to Gray's description
in the " Catalogue of the Specimens of Snakes in the collection of the
British Museum," published in 1849, and to which we are compelled
to refer our readers.
112 OPHIDIA.
1. WENONA PLUMBEA, B. & G.
(Plate VII, figs. 1-7.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Scutis frontalibus in tria paria dispositis ; pare medio
cum loreo coalescente, proinde ad labiales extendente. Scutis laltia-
libus in orbitum non productis. Colore plmnbeo-coeruleo supra;
infra vero albo-flavescente.
SPEC. CHAR. — Three pairs of frontal plates ; middle pair united to
the loral, and, consequently, extending to the labials. Labials not
entering into the rim of the orbit. Uniform bluish-lead color
above ; uniform yellowish-white beneath.
SYN.— Wenona plumbea, B. & G. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 176; &
Catal. N. Ainer. Kept. I, 1835, 139.
DESCR. — The upper surface of the head is slightly convex ; the
snout being rounded and prominent. The vertex plate is as broad
as long, obtuse-angled anteriorly, and rounded posteriorly. The post-
frontals are small and triangular ; the middle frontals, subangular in
shape, are transversely elongated, reaching the labials at the commis-
sure of the second and third, thus occupying the place of the loral.
The prefrontals are angular posteriorly, rounded anteriorly, reaching
the first labial, and occupying the* place of the prenasal. The rostral
is broad and large. The postnasal is subtriangular, elongated, with
its apex directed backwards. The nostrils are vertically elongated,
situated between the lateral expansion of the prefrontal and the post-
nasal. The occipitals are quite small and united in one plate, mayhap
exceptionally. The anteorbital is large, subpyramidal, its apex reach-
ing the upper surface of the head, where it meets the vertex one, being
produced between the supraocularies and the postfrontals. The supra-
ocularies themselves are subquadrangular, more developed upon the
surface of the head than in the rim of the orbit. There are four post-
orbitals; the uppermost being the largest, and by its elevated position
might be considered as a second supraoculary, whilst the inferior one,
which is the next in size, rests upon the fifth labial, and might be
taken for a second suborbital. The suborbital proper is large and
polygonal, situated upon the commissure between the fourth and fifth
WE NONA ISABELLA. H3
labials. The temporal shields are numerous, small, scale-like. The
cleft of the mouth is slightly deflected. The upper labials are nine
in number ; the anterior three are larger than the rest ; the fifth is
broadest ; none reach the orbit. The lower labials are small ; the
anterior three being the largest ; the first pair on each side of the
symphyseal meet posteriorly, enclosing the latter. Three pairs of
mental shields may be seen along the middle region, immediately
behind the junction of the first pair of labials.
The body is subcylindrical, deeper than broad ; the abdomen being
comparatively narrow. The tail is short, thick, blunt upon its extre-
mity. The scales are small, irregular, subelliptical or sub-lozengiform,
disposed upon forty-five longitudinal series, proportionally large in
the outer series, and deeper than long. In the second series the scales
are larger still than in the remaining ones, where they become uni-
formly small, scarcely diminishing towards the middle region of the
back ; on the tail, however, they are somewhat larger. The abdomi-
nal scutellae are two hundred and six, and the subcaudal ones, twenty-
seven in number.
The ground color is of a uniform bluish-lead hue above, and yel-
lowish-white beneath.
Loc. — A specimen, a little short of eighteen inches, was collected
up Puget Sound, Washington Territory.
Plate VII, fig. 1, represents Wenona plumbea, size of life.
Fig. 2, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 3, an upper view of the same.
Fig. 4, the head, seen from below.
Fig. 5, a front view of the same.
Fig. 6, the disposition of the scales.
Fig. 7, the vent, with the preanal scutella, and the minute scales
surrounding it.
2. WEXONA ISABELLA, B. & G.
(Plate VII, figs. 8-14.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Scutis frontalibus in dua paria dispo&itis. &uto loreo
angulare. Quarto et quinlo labialibus in orbitum productis. Scuto
29
OPHIDIA.
verticis anteriore parvo, inter postfrontales sito. Colore sordide flu m
supra, infra vero obsoleto-flafco.
SPEC. CHAR. — Two pairs of frontal plates. An angular loral. Fourth
and fifth upper labials entering into the rim of the orbit. A small
anterior vertex plate situated between the postfrontals. Uniform
isabel-color above, dull-yellow beneath.
SYN.— Wenona isalella, B. & G. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 176;
& Catal. N. Amer. Kept. I, 1853, 140.
DESCR. — The eye is larger than in the preceding species, and the
snout less protruding. The upper surface of the head is fiat ; the snout
rounded upon its periphery. The normal vertex plate is broader than
long and rounded posteriorly. A small plate is situated immediately
in advance of the latter and between the postfrontals, which may be
considered as a second vertex plate. A small, transversely elongated
occipital is observed. There are but two pairs of frontals ; the post-
frontals are largest, subangular, united on the right side with the
loral, whilst on the left side the loral is distinct from the postfrontal,
and angular in shape. The prefrontals are likewise subangular,
extending to the first upper labial, and occupying the place of the pre-
nasal. The rostral is broad, obtuse-angled above. The anteorbital is
large, sub-lozengiform, extending to the upper surface of the head,
being produced between the postfrontal and supraoculary, and con-
tiguous to the vertex plate. The supraoculary is proportionally larger
than in W. plumbea, and irregularly rounded. We observe three sub-
angular, polygonal postorbitals ; the middle one being the smallest
and elongated. Numerous temporal shields, of the size of the post-
orbitals, and slightly smaller than the scales. The cleft of the mouth
is nearly horizontal. The upper labials are nine in number ; the
anterior five higher, else deeper than the rest ; the fourth and fifth
entering into the orbit, and thus replacing the suborbitals which are
wanting. There are ten lower labials ; the anterior four larger than
the rest. The first pair encloses the symphyseal, and posteriorly
along the middle region, may be seen four pairs of mental shields.
The body is subcylindrical, deeper than broad ; the abdomen being
narrow. The tail is short and thick, blunt posteriorly. The scales
resemble those of W. plumbea, but are proportionally larger. Those
constituting the outer row, not quite so deep compared to their length.
MORELIA ARGUS. 115
The abdominal scutellae are two hundred and ten in number, the sub-
caudal ones are thirty-four.
The color is of a uniform isabel hue above ; dull-yellow beneath.
Loc. — A specimen, a little over fifteen inches, was collected up
Puget Sound, Washington Territory.
Plate VII, fig. 8, represents Wenona Isabella, size of life.
Fig. 9, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 10, a view of the same, from above.
Fig. 11, exhibits the inferior surface of the head.
Fig. 12, a front view of the same.
Fig. 13, the disposition of the dorsal scales.
Fig. 14, the vent and adjoining scutellae.
GENUS MORELIA, GRAY.
GEX. CHAR. — Upper surface of head covered with scale-like plates.
Three pairs of frontal plates larger than the rest. Vertex plate
small. A pit on each side of the rostral plate. Anterior three
upper labials pitted ; hindermost six lower labials pitted also.
Nostrils lateral, in a single plate, with a groove beneath. Eyes
lateral, of medium size; pupil elliptical, vertical. Dorsal scales
smooth. Subcaudal scutellae disposed upon a double row.
STN.— Morelia, GRAY, Zool. Misc. 1842, 43; & Catal. Snakes, Brit. Mus. 1849,
82 & 85.
OBSERV. — This genus belongs to the group of Pythonians, whose
chief features consist in the development of the premaxillary teeth
and supraoculary bone, and in the arrangement of the subcaudal
scutellae upon a double row. All the Pythonians inhabit the Old
World.
MORELIA ARGUS, Dum. & Bibr.
SPEC. CHAR. — Dorsal scales small, lanceolated, subtruncated towards
the sides and also posteriorly, disposed upon forty-seven longitu-
OPHIDIA.
dinal series. Tail small, subconical, and tapering to a point.
Above bluish-black, irregularly spotted with yellow ; beneath
yellowish, maculated with bluish-black.
Sw.—Serpens arabica, &c. SEBA, Thes. Nat. II, 1734, 108. Tab. 103, fig. 1.
Vlpera argus, KLEIN, Tent. 1755, 21.
Coluber argus, LINN. Syst. Nat. I, 1758, 389.— DAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. VI, 1803,
312.
Coluber spilotes, LACEP. Ann. Mus. hist. nat. IV, 1802, 194.
Natrix argus, MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 90 & 126.
Echidna spilotes, MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 150.
Python punctatus, MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 90. — FITZ. Neue Class. Kept.
1826, 54.— BOIE, Isis. XX, 1826, 516.
Leptophis punciulatus, GRAY, in King's Voy. Austr. II, 1827, 432.
Leptophis spilotus, GRAY, in King's Voy. Austr. II, 1827, 433.
Python peronii, Cuv. Mus. Paris, 1827.— LESS. Ann. Sci. nat. XIII, 1828, 391.—
WAGL. Descr. & Icon. Amph. 1833, Taf. i. — SCHLEG. Ess. physiogn. Serp. 1837,421.
PL xv, figs. 11 & 12.— FITZ. Syst. Kept. 1843, 24.
Morelia punctata, GRAY, Zool. Misc. 1842, 43.
Morelia argus, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. VI, 1844, 385.
Morelia spilotes, GRAY, Catal. Snakes, Brit. Mus. 1849, 85.
Australasian snake, SHAW, in White's Voy. N. S. Wales, 1790, 259 ; and, Gen. Zool.
Ill, ii, 1802, 505. Vignette on title page.
OBSERV. — There are two prepared skins of this species in the collec-
tion we investigate ; the largest one measures about six feet in total
length. The dorsal scales increase in size from the middle region of
the back sideways; the series adjoining the abdominal scutellae being
very large. They are, likewise, larger towards the posterior portion
of the back and on the tail than anteriorly. As they increase in size
they become less lanceolated, assuming more a truncated or rounded
outline.
The upper regions are of a bluish-black hue, more or less intense ;
each scale bearing an elongated yellow spot upon its centre. Irregular
series of yellow blotches are formed by groups of four to six scales
entirely yellow. An angular yellow band may be observed on each
side of the occiput. The inferior regions are yellow, anteriorly spotted,
posteriorly maculated with bluish-black. A lateral series of orange
blotches may be observed along the middle region of the body.
Loc. — " Found in Mr. Couthouy's bed, on the ground floor of a
house near Sydney," Australia.
ENYGRUS BIBRONI. H7
GENUS ENYGRUS, WAQL.
GEN. CHAR. — The body, in this genus, is deeper than broad, and the
tail, of moderate development, is prehensile. Vestiges of posterior
limbs may likewise be observed on each side of the anal opening,
and much more developed than in We/iona. The upper surface of
the head is covered with small polygonal scales instead of plates.
The eyes are lateral, that is, placed altogether upon the sides of
the head ; the pupil is vertically elliptical. We observe no pits
upon the lips. The scales are carinated, rather small, and disposed
upon numerous longitudinal series, from thirty-two to thirty-eight
in number. The preanal scutella is entire, and the subcaudal
scutellae also, that is, disposed upon a single series.
X.— Enygrus, WAOL. Nat. Syst. Amph. 1830, 167. — BUM. & BIBR. Erp. gen. VI,
1844,476.
OBSERV. — The genus Tropidoboa we have never seen characterized,
and therefore are not prepared to discuss its merits as compared to
Enygrus. We see it mentioned on Plate I of the " Voyage au Pole
Sud et dans 1'Oceanie," but Dumeril has not deemed it advisable to
retain it.
ENYGRUS BIBRONI, Dum. & Bibr.
(Plate VIII, figs. 8-11.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Cephalic scales considerably larger anteriorly than pos-
teriorly. Dorsal scales disposed upon thirty-eight longitudinal series.
Abdominal scutellae two hundred and forty-four; subcaudal scu-
tellae sixty-two. Color above brownish or blackish, with irregular,
large, black blotches ; beneath yellowish-white, with longitudinal
bands of black.
STN. — Enyyrus bibroni, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. VI, 1844, 483.
Tropidoloa bibroni, HOMER. & JACQ. in Dumont D' Urv. Voy. au Pole Sud et dans
1'Oceanie. Zool. Kept. 1842, PI. i.
30
OP HID I A.
DESCR. — The head is elongated, very much depressed, nearly plane
on the occipital, interoculary, and frontal regions, whilst it is declivous
towards the loral region. The extremity of the snout is truncated
from outwards inwards, so that the upper jaw is seen projecting
beyond the lower. The mouth is deeply cleft. The eyes, subcir-
cular in shape, are well developed, situated on the sides of the head,
with the longitudinal diameter a little longer than the vertical, whilst
the pupil is vertically elliptical. The cephalic, scale-like plates, are
carinated, and provided moreover with a few very minute tubercles.
The rostral plate is- broader than high, does not extend to the upper
surface of the snout, is rounded upon its upper margin, which is wider
than its lower margin. The nostrils are situated sideways, in the
middle of a single plate. The plates upon the fronto-nasal region are
considerably larger than on the occipital region, where they are quite
small. The orbit is formed by a complete circle of subquadrangular
plates, nearly equal in size, except one anteorbital, which is larger
than the others. Three or four subquadrangular plates, disposed
upon one series between the anteorbital and the nasal, are generally
well developed and diminishing in size forwardly ; or else the phrenic
region is covered with plates similar in size and shape to those of the
upper surface of the head, and disposed upon two series. A third
series is composed of two or three small plates, situated above the
fourth and fifth labials. The upper labials are ten or eleven in
number; the fifth and sixth being situated under the eye, but are
excluded from the orbit ; the second, third, fifth, and sixth are the
largest ; the first, fourth, and seventh are next in size, the remain-
ing ones becoming gradually smaller towards the angle of the mouth.
The symphyseal is very much developed, larger than any of the lower
labials, broadest towards the tip of the jaw, tapering and rounded
posteriorly, and slightly concave laterally. There are about twelve
lower labials, the anterior one entirely separated from its fellow by the
symphyseal. The anterior six are elongated vertically ; the remain-
ing ones quadrangular, diminishing in size posteriorly. We observe
four pair of small, scale-like, mental shields, divided by a longitudinal
groove. The scales under the throat are slender and elongated.
The body is much deeper than broad, and convex above, whilst it
is flattened along the abdomen. The dorsal scales, disposed upon
thirty-two or thirty-eight longitudinal series, are all carinated, except
the series adjoining the abdominal scutellae, where the scales are broad
RABDION.
and very obtuse upon their posterior margin. The next seven series
are composed of quite small and narrow scales, whilst upon the middle
region of the back they are the largest of all, broad upon their base.
The abdominal scutellae are from two hundred and eighteen to two
hundred and forty-four in number and of moderate development ; the
preanal one being entire, as well as the rest. The tail, which forms
about the seventh of the total length, is subconical ; thirteen longitu-
dinal series of scales may be counted upon its base. The subcaudal
scutellae, fifty-five to sixty-two in number, are adl entire.
The ground color above is either brown, fawn, greyish, or blackish,
over which large black patches are more or less apparent. These
patches are angular, irregular, and incompletely defined, with inter-
vening spaces on the back of reddish-brown; they constitute a dorsal
series, and, occasionally, one or two lateral series. The upper surface
of the head is barred with black. Beneath, the color is yellowish-
white, with a series of black, confluent spots along the external edge
of the scutellae, so as to appear like a continuous black band. The
middle of the abdomen may exhibit a similar blackish band, which
becomes sometimes irregular, giving to the whole abdominal region a
marbled appearance.
Loc. — Specimens of this species were collected at Savai and Upolu
(Navigator Islands), as also on the Feejees, where they appear to be
more common than in the former group of islands. According to the
naturalists of the Exploring Expedition, these snakes are sluggish and
inoffensive, and were often brought to them by the natives.
GENUS RABDIOX, DUM.
GEN\ CHAR. — The body is slender and cylindrical, covered with smooth
scales. The tail short and tapering, and the abdominal scutellae
large. The snout is rounded. The cephalic plates are normal ; we
observe one nasal, no loral, one anteorbital, one or two postorbitals,
six upper labials, the third and fourth beneath the eye, and enter-
ing into the orbit. Postabdominal scutella divided ; subcaudal
scutella disposed upon a double series.
SYN.— R<iU!on, DUM. & BIBR. Erp. gen. Vil, I, 1854, 115.
120 OP HID I A.
OBSERV. — We take this genus as established in the " Erpetologie
generate," modifying simply that part of its diagnosis relating to the
postocular plates : the species described below having two such plates
instead of one. In every other respect, the latter has all the generical
characters assigned to Rabdion.
This genus and the two following ones belong to the family of
Galamaridae ; the representatives of which are, generally speaking, of
a diminutive size. Their head and body are slender ; the latter sub-
cylindrical and nearly of uniform diameter from head to tail. The
tail itself is always short, oftentimes tapering. Their habits are
terrestrial, keeping in dark places, either sheltered under stones or
concealed in the brush or decayed wood ; on that account they are
seldom brought to the notice of travellers, unless sought after within
their retreats.
KABDION OCCIPITALE, Grd.
CHAR. SPEC. — Capitevaldedepresso; oculis magnis. Squamisdorsualibus
in quindecim series longitudinales dispositls. Supra subflavo, squamis
fusco marginalia; infra unicolore. Capite et collo nigris, cum macula
occipitali flava.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head very much depressed. Eyes large. Dorsal scales
disposed upon fifteen longitudinal series. Ground color yellowish ;
scales margined with brown ; beneath unicolor. Head and neck
black, with an occipital yellow spot.
SYN. — Rabdion occipitale, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. August, 1857.
DESCR. — A single specimen of this species is before us ; it measures
seven inches and a half in total length. The head is very small, and
less than three-eighths of an inch long ; it is very much depressed,
subovoid when seen from above, broadest upon the temporal region.
The snout is rounded, and both jaws are equal. The vertex plate is
pentagonal, subcordiform, nearly as broad as long. The occipital
plates are the largest of the cephalic series ; they are elongated,
narrowest posteriorly, and slightly undulating upon their external
edge. The postfrontals are much larger than the prefrontals, sub-
RABDION OCCIPITAL E. 121
quadrangular in shape when viewed from above ; they extend to the
sides of the head, occupying the place of the loral plate : the latter
being absent. The prefrontals are small and subtrapezoid. The rostral
is broad, but low and scarcely visible upon an upper view of the head.
There is but one subtriangular nasal plate, in the middle of which may
be seen a quite large nostril, situated altogether on the sides of the
snout. We notice a single anteorbital, of moderate development,
extending somewhat to the upper surface of the head. The supraocu-
lary is twice as long as broad. There are two postorbitals ; the
uppermost being more quadrangular than the lower, and both a little
smaller than the anteorbital. The eyes are proportionally large, and
the pupil is circular. The temporal shields are larger than the scales
of the body. There are six upper labial plates ; the anterior one is
very small, situated under the nasal; the others are well developed:
the second is contiguous to the lateral expansion of the postfrontals
upon the loral region ; the third and fourth enter into the orbit, the
anteorbital resting upon the third, and the inferior postorbital upon
the fourth, the commissure of these plates being situated in advance
of the pupil ; the fifth and sixth labials are subtriangular, contiguous
only upon one of their angles, since the largest of the temporal shields
thrusts itself between them. The symphyseal plate is well developed
and triangular. We observe seven inferior labials (on each side), the
fourth being a great deal larger than the rest. There are two pairs
of well-marked mental shields. The region of the throat is occupied
by subangular scales, a little larger than those of the body.
The body and neck are subcylindrical, rather flattened beneath ;
the neck is more slender than the body, properly so called. The
scales are disposed upon fifteen longitudinal series, smallest along the
dorsal line, and increasing in size towards the abdomen. The
abdominal scutellae are very narrow, but transversely quite long ;
they number about one hundred and eighty, the preanal one being
much broader than the others, convex exteriorly, and subdivided.
The tail, a little more than an inch in length, is conical and tapering.
The subcaudal scutellae are in pairs, thirty-seven in number. The
apex of the tail terminates in a horny process.
The upper surface of the head and anterior portion of the neck is
jet black, with an insulated, yellow, occipital spot, transversely elon-
gated, convex posteriorly, subconcave anteriorly, and truncated late-
rally. The margin of the upper jaw is straw-colored, as is also the
31
122 OPHIDIA.
lower jaw, the throat, the abdominal and subcaudal regions. The
upper region of the body and tail is likewise yellowish, but, since
each scale is provided with a chestnut-brown margin, the entire sur-
face assumes a reticulated appearance. The scales of the middle
dorsal row having that chestnut-brown margin more strongly marked
than the rest, the body appears as if provided with a dorsal brown
band.
LOG. — This species was found under the bark of a tree, at Upper
Hunter, near Sydney, Australia.
GENUS LODIA, B. & G.
CHAR. GEN. — Capite ovato, discrete. Oculis magnis, ciradaribus. Scutis
verticis duobus ; nasalibus duobus ; loreo in orbitum producto ; ante-
orbitali uno; postorbitalibus duobus; snpra-labialibus elonyatis, mag-
nis. Scutellis mentalibus in unum par dlspositis. Squamis laevibus.
Scutella postabdominali, sen praeanali, divisa; subcaudalibus in du-
plicem seriem dispositis.
GEN. CHAR. — Head ovoid, distinct from the body. Eyes large and
circular. Two vertex plates. Two nasals. Loral entering into the
orbit with an anteorbital. Postorbitals two. Supraoculary elon-
gated and large. Mental shields one pair. Scales smooth. Post-
abdominal scutella divided. Subcaudal scutellae disposed upon a
double series.
SYN.— Lodia, B. & G. Catal. N. Amer. Kept. I, 1853, 116.
OBSERV. — By its general appearance this genus reminds us of Cala-
maria proper. It is composed, so far, of but one species, inhabiting
the northwestern coast of America.
LODIA TENUIS, B. & G.
(Plate IX, figs. 8-11.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Squamis dorsualibus in quindecim series longitudinales
dispositis. Corpore supra fusco, a latere coeruleo; vitta pallida in
LODIA TENUIS. 123
utroque laiere. Abdornine clariore, scutellis coeruleis a buse. Caitda
infra "iikolore, a latere coendearum ma.cula.rum serie instructa.
SPEC. CHAR. — Dorsal scales disposed upon fifteen longitudinal series.
Body dull-brown above, bluish on the sides, with a longitudinal
lighter stripe on each flank. Abdomen lighter ; base of scutellae
bluish. Tail beneath unicolor, with a lateral series of bluish
spots.
SYX.— Cafamario tenuis, B. & G. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 176.
Lodia tennis, B. & G. Catal. N. Amer. Kept. I, 1853, 116.
DESCR. — The ordinary vertex plate is hexagonal, broad anteriorly,
and acute-angled posteriorly. The anterior vertex plate is much
smaller than the former, ovoid or subelliptical, and situated between
the postfrontals, which are angular and extend to the sides of the
head. The prefrontals are subtriangular, about half the size of the
postfrontals just alluded to. The rostral is broad and well developed,
whilst the supraocularies are rather small. The occipitals are externally
subangular, large, and elongated. The nasals are well developed, the
prenasal being the largest ; the nostril situated in the middle,
between the two plates. The loral is large, polygonal, elongated,
situated above the commissure of the second and third upper labials,
and entering into the orbit as an inferior anteorbital. A quadran-
gular upper anteorbital is inclosed between the postfrontals, supraocu-
lary, and loral. There are two angular postorbitals, the lower one
resting upon the commissure of the fourth and fifth labials. The
temporal shields are conspicuous, the anterior one largest and elongated.
The mouth is deeply cleft ; the upper labials are six in number, the
three posterior ones being a little larger than the three anterior. The
lower labials are six also ; the fourth is the largest. The mental
shields, of which there is but one pair, are large and elongated.
The body is slender, subcylindrical. The tail short, conical, and
tapering, constituting about the seventh of the entire length. The
scales are proportionally large, rhomboidal, smooth, forming fifteen
longitudinal series, the outer one of which being but slightly broader
than the rest.
There are one hundred and- fifty-one abdominal scutellae; the pre-
anal one subdivided. The subcaudal scutellae are thirty-three in
number, and arranged upon a double series.
124- OPHIDIA.
The color above is dull-brown, and bluish on the sides, with a
longitudinal light stripe upon each. The abdomen is lighter than
the back, with the base of the scutellae bluish. The tail beneath is
unicolor, with an external series of bluish spots.
LOG. — A specimen, a little over eight inches, was collected on
Puget Sound, Washington Territory.
Plate IX, fig. 8, represents Lodia tennis, size of life.
Fig. 9, is the head, in a profile view.
Fig. 10, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 11, the head, from below.
Figs. 9-11 are double the size of life, for the purpose of showing
more accurately the various plates.
GENUS CONTIA, B. & G.
CHAR. GEN. — Gorpore brevissimo. Capite ovato. Oculis parvis. Rostro
truncate. Scutis cephalitis normalibus. Scuti alii sunt : nasalis, loreus
praeorbitalis, et postorbitalis. Squamis laeoibue. Scutella praeanali,
sen postabdominali, dlvisa; subcaudalibus in duplicem seriem dis-
positis.
GEN. CHAR. — Body rather short. Head ovoid. Eyes small. Snout
truncated. Cephalic plates normal. One nasal ; nostril in the
middle. One loral. One anteorbital and one postorbital. Scales
smooth. Postabdominal scutella divided. Subcaudal scutellae dis-
posed upon a double series.
SYN.— Contia, B. & G. Catal. N. Amer. Kept. I, 1853, 110.
OBSERV. — This is another representative of the family of Calama-
ridae, in Western North America. The only species of the genus
known to the present day, is described further on.
CONTIA MITIS. 125
CONTIA MITIS, B. & G.
(Plate X, figs. 6-12.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Squamis donualibtu in quindecim series longititdinales dis-
positis. Colore supra spadiceo; vitta pallida in utroque dorsi latere
et subfer earn niyrorum punctorum serie. Squamae minimi* nigri*
punctis notantur. Scutellis singulis antice nigris, postice vero paUide
fidcis.
SPEC. CHAR. — Scales disposed upon fifteen series. Deep chestnut-
brown above, with two longitudinal light bands, one on each
side of the back, below which is a series of black dots. Scales
minutely dotted with black. Anterior half of the scutellae black;
posterior half light-yellow.
SYN.— Contia mills, B. & G. Catal. N. Amer. Kept. I, 1853, 110.
DESCR. — The head is almost as deep as the body ; the snout pro-
truding beyond the lower jaw is obliquely truncated. The vertex
plate is hexagonal ; its sides nearly parallel and posteriorly very acute.
The occipitals are elongated, truncated posteriorly, and slightly convex
exteriorly. The postfrontals are large and angular, whilst the pre-
frontals are subangular and much smaller. The rostral is well
developed, broad, and but slightly produced between the prefrontals.
The nasal is quadrangular, longer than high, with the nostril in the
middle, a little nearer the anterior than posterior edge. The loral is
elongated and quadrangular, situated above the second labial. The
anteorbital is angular and deep, situated above the third labial. The
postorbital is angular, larger than the anteorbital, situated above the
commissure between the fourth and fifth labials. The supraocularies
are proportionally small and oblong. There is but one large, angular,
and elongated temporal shield. The upper labials are seven in
number ; the anterior and posterior ones are smaller than in the
middle of the series ; the third and fourth are beneath the eye, form-
ing a part of the orbit. There are, likewise, seven lower labials,
the fourth being the largest. We observe two pairs of mental shields,
the posterior pair being very small.
32
12(3 OPHIDIA.
The body is slender, subcylindrical, broader than deep, covered
with proportionally large scales, subelliptical in shape, posteriorly
rounded or subtruncated. Those forming the exterior rows are con-
spicuously broader than the rest. The tail is short, conical, and
tapering.
The abdominal scutellae are one hundred and fifty-five in number,
the posterior one, or preanal, being divided. There are thirty-five
subcaudal scutellae, disposed upon a double series.
The lighter bands of the back cover the fourth external row of
dorsal scales ; the series of black dots is immediately beneath, on
the third row of scales. The scales in the exterior row are tipped
with black. The head above is blackish-brown ; beneath mottled
with black, on a yellowish-green ground. The abdomen is trans-
versely barred with black and yellow.
Loc. — This species inhabits California and Oregon.
Plate X, fig. 6, represents Contia mitis, size of life.
Fig. 7, is a profile of the head.
Fig. 8, an upper view ; and
Fig. 9, an under view ; whilst
Fig. 10, exhibits a front view of the same region.
Fig. 11, represents the scales of the body ; and
Fig. 12, the vent, to show the preanal scutella.
Figs. 7-10, are magnified one-half of their diameter.
GENUS BASCANION, B. & G.
CHAR. GEN". — Corpore et capite elongatis. Cauda longissima. Scutis
postorbitalibus duobus ; praeorbitali uno, et loreo uno ; nasalibus duo-
bus : nare in sutura sita. Squamis laevibus in septendecim series
longitudinales dispositis. Scutella praeanali divisa, Scutellis subcau-
dalibus in duplicem seriem ordinatis. Colors in adulto aequali, in
juniore vero maculato.
GEN. CHAR. — Body and head elongated. Tail very long. Two post-
orbital and one anteorbital plates. One loral. Two nasals; nostril
B A S C A N I 0 X V E T U S T U S. 127
between them. Scales smooth, disposed upon seventeen longitu-
dinal series. Preanal scutella subdivided. Subcaudal scutellae
disposed upon a double series. Adults unicolor ; young blotched.
SYN.— Bascanion, B. & G. Catal. N. Amer. Kept. I, 1853, 93.
OBSERV. — The head is elongated, narrow, and deep; the eyes very
large, and the vertex plate elongated and narrow also. The upper
anteorbital is much larger than the lower one, which is situated in a
notch between two labials. The fourth upper labial is produced
behind the eye to meet the lower postorbital. The abdominal scu-
tellae are from one hundred and seventy to two hundred in number,
the preanal being divided; and ninety to one hundred and ten sub-
caudal ones, all of which are divided, or else disposed upon a double
series.
The teeth, as far as our observations go upon the species described
below, are pretty nearly equal in development upon the palate as well
as upon the jaws ; the premaxillary teeth being wanting.
BASCANION VETUSTUS, B. & G.
(Plate VIII, figs. 12-19.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Capitis longitudine, trans scutos supraoculares, dimi-
diam intervaUi inter apicem rostri et extremitatem posteriorem scu~
torum occipitalium, adaequante. Inferiore postorbitali scuto in angido
inter quartam et quintain labialem sito. Colore supra fusco-olivaceo,
infra paUeo-viride.
SPEC. CHAR. — Width of the head, across supraoculary plates, equal to
half the distance between apex of rostrum and posterior extremity
of occipital plates. Inferior postorbital in a notch, between the
fourth and fifth labials. Olive-brown above ; pale-green beneath.
SYN. — Bascanion vefustus, B. & G. Catal. N. Amer. Kept. I, 1853, 97.
DESCR. — The head is declivous upon the frontal region. The snout
is rounded, protruding considerably beyond the lower jaw. The
rostral plate is pyramidal and well developed ; the prefrontal plates
128 OPHIDIA.
are much smaller than the postfrontals, which extend somewhat to
the sides of the head. The nasals are large ; the prenasal a little
larger than the postnasal ; the nostril excavates equally the inner
edge of each of these plates, and is contiguous above to the prefrontal
plate. The loral is large and subpentagonal or trapezoid. The upper
anteorbital extends to the upper surface of the head, in the shape of
a triangle interposed between the postfrontal and the supraoculary.
The postorbitals are of equal size. There are six temporal shields,
the anterior being the smallest. The upper labials are seven in
number, increasing in size from the snout to the angle of the mouth,
the seventh being equal to the fifth, and the sixth consequently the
largest. The third and fourth are situated beneath the eye, consti-
tuting a part of the orbit. There are eight lower labials, the third
and fourth being considerably larger than the rest. The posterior
pair of mental shields is narrower than the anterior pair and tapering
posteriorly. The scales are disposed upon seventeen longitudinal
series, increasing in size towards the abdomen ; the external series is
considerably larger than the rest. Abdominal scutellae one hundred
and sixty-six to one hundred and seventy-two ; subcaudal scutellae
seventy-nine to eighty-nine. The preanal scutella is subdivided, and
the subcaudal ones disposed upon a double series. Sometimes the last
two or three abdominal scutellae exhibit an irregular subdivision.
Above olive, tinged with brown ; beneath pale-green ; no black dots
visible. There appears to be little if any black in the skin be-
tween the scales, although the basal edges of the scales themselves
are slightly tinged.
Loc. — Specimens of this species were collected about Puget Sound,
Washington Territory.
Plate VIII, fig. 12, represents Bascanion vetustus, size of life.
Figs. 13 and 14, are profile views of the head; fig. 13 from the
left side, and fig. 14 from the right, both of these views being given
on account of the labial plates varying in number.
Fig. 15, represents the head, from above.
Fig. 16, is the same region, viewed from beneath.
Fig. 17, represents the outline of the scales ; and
Fig. 18, the vent, for the chief purpose of showing the preanal
scutella.
Fig. 19, the dorsal scales.
DENDROPHIS PICTA. J29
GENUS DENDROPHIS, BOIE.
CHAR. — Body slender, very elongated, separated from the head
by a quite narrow neck. Tail long and tapering. Head long, pos-
teriorly broad; eyes large. Cephalic plates nine in number. Nos-
tril situated between two plates. One loral, one anteorbital, and
two postorbital plates. Scales smooth, or else not carinated. Belly
flat; abdominal scutellae bent upwards, nearly at right angles on
the sides ; the preanal one either entire or subdivided. Subcaudal
scutellae disposed upon a double series, and similarly bent upwards.
SYN.— Dendrophis, BOIE, Isis, XX, 1826, 520.— WAGL. Nat. Syst. Amph. 1830,
l<-2.— DUM. & BIBR. Erp. gen. VII, I, 1854, 193.
OBSERV. — One of the most characteristic traits of this genus consists
in the series of scales on the middle region of the back, which are
larger and differently shaped than the rest. The teeth are of uni-
form size or development ; none, however, being found upon the pre-
m axillary bones.
1. DENDROPHIS PICTA, Boie.
SPEC. CHAR. — Dorsal scales disposed upon fifteen longitudinal series.
Tail forming about the third of the total length. Preanal scutella
entire. Upper regions green, with a yellowish-white lateral band
margined with black. Sides of head and neck black. Beneath
yellowish-white.
STN.— Coluber pictus, GM. Linn. Syst. Nat. Ill, 1788, 1116.— SEBA, Thes. Nat I,
173-L Tab. xcix.
Dipsas schokari, KUHL, Beitr. 1820, 80.
Dendroplds picta, BOIE, Isis, XX, 1826, 530 & 542; Erp. Java. PL xxxrv. —
SCHL. Ess. phys. Serp. 1, 1837, 57; et H, 1837, 228. PL ix, figs. 5-7.— DUM. & BIBB.
Erp. gen. VII, I, 1854, 197.
Leptophis pictus, CANTOR, Journ. Asiat. Soc. XVI, 1847, 83.
DESCR. — The head is elongated, depressed, and flattened upon its
upper surface ; it is ovoid in shape, when viewed from above. The
33
130 OP HID I A.
snout protrudes slightly beyond the lower jaw. The cleft of the
mouth is descending from the tip of the lower jaw to a vertical line
drawn behind the eye, hence ascending to its angle. The eye is large
and circular ; the pupil is circular also. The nostril occupies the
upper portion, between two nasal plates, its superior rim being
formed by the prefrontal plate. The occipital plates are more
developed than any of the cephalic series; they are broadest ante-
riorly, diminishing in width posteriorly, rounded upon the latter
margin, and nearly rectilinear laterally. The vertex plate is very
broad anteriorly, tapering posteriorly, where it is rounded ; the sides
are somewhat concave. The supraocularies are obtusely triangular.
The frontals are subquadrangular, the postfrontals being but a little
larger than the prefrontals, if we except that portion which extends
towards the loral region. The rostral is well developed, broad, and
low. The postnasal is larger than the prenasal, both being con-
tiguous inferiorly. The loral is narrow and elongated. The ante-
orbital is narrow inferiorly ; it expands upwards, and appears on the
upper surface of the head, under the shape of a small triangle. There
are two postorbitals, the inferior one being much smaller than the
upper. Four temporal shields of considerable development may be
observed. There are eight upper labials ; the anterior three are the
smallest ; the fourth and fifth constitute the inferior portion of the
orbit, and are, together with the sixth and seventh, the largest ; the
ninth is smaller than the preceding. There are ten inferior labials ;
the symphyseal is small, triangular, and inclosed by the first pair of
inferior labial plates, which are narrow and elongated ; the fifth and
sixth are the largest of the series ; the posterior four diminish
gradually towards the angle of the mouth, whilst the anterior four
increase in size from the symphyseal backwards. The mental shields
are well developed; the posterior pair is narrower and more elongated
than the anterior pair. Scale-like shields may be observed on the
sides of the throat.
The body is very elongated and very slender, deeper than broad
throughout its whole extent, and most developed upon the middle
region. The belly is nearly flat, and laterally keeled, a result of the
bent of the scutellae. The tail, which forms about the third of the
entire length, is very slender and tapering to a point ; it is likewise
deeper than broad throughout its entire length; its inferior surface is
flattened, keeled on each side like the belly, owing to the flexions
DENDROPHIS PRASINUS. 131
upwards of the subcaudal scutellae. The dorsal scales, which are
smooth, are disposed upon fifteen longitudinal series; the middle series
is composed of larger scales than the lateral series, from which they
likewise widely differ in shape. While the lateral scales are narrow
and elongated, the dorsal ones are subelliptically hexagonal. There
are four series of scales upon the tail at its origin, and one only towards
its termination. The abdominal scutellae, one hundred and sixty-nine
in number, are well developed, the preanal being entire like the rest.
There are one hundred and nineteen subcaudal scutellae, all divided,
else disposed upon a double series.
The ground color is of a brownish-green, with a lateral yellowish-
white or whitish band extending over the two external series of scales
and bordered with black. The inferior black border covers partly the
outer series of scales and partly the abdominal scutellae, whilst the
upper one extends along the margin of the second series of scales.
The side of the head, in advance of the eye, is spotted with black.
The postocular and temporal regions, as well as the sides of the neck,
are black. The inferior regions are unicolor.
Loc. — A specimen of this species, about three feet in length, was
procured at Singapore.
2. DENDROPHIS PRASINUS, Grd.
(Plate XII, figs. 7-10.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Squamw dorsualibus, postice emaryinatis, in tridecim series
loiKjitwliiidks ditfKxsitis. Scutella praeancdi divisa. Colore passim
ciiide ; linea albida secundum carinam aMominalem protensa.
SPEC. CHAR. — Dorsal scales posteriorly emarginated and disposed upon
thirteen longitudinal series. Preanal scutella divided. Uniformly
green, with a whitish line along the abdominal ridge.
SYN. — Dendrophis prasinus, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. August, l^-'~
DESCR. — The head is elongated, depressed, subovoid when seen
from above, and tapering forwards. It is twice as long as broad and
OP HID I A.
one-third broader than deep. The mouth is deeply cleft, concave
downwards, a little behind the orbit. The snout is slightly pro-
truding beyond the lower jaw. The eye is large and subelliptical,
its horizontal diameter being somewhat more than half the distance
between its anterior rim and the extremity of the snout. The
cephalic plates are all conspicuously developed, the occipitals being
the largest of the set, and nearly as wide anteriorly as the vertex plate
is long ; the latter is subpyramidal, with its rounded summit directed
backwards, whilst its sides are slightly concave upon their middle.
The supraocularies are a little longer than the vertex plate, obtusely
subtriangular in shape, broadest posteriorly, where they meet the
occipitals. The postfrontals are larger than the prefrontals, subquad-
rangular when viewed from above, and extending to the sides of the
head, as far as the loral, between the postnasal and the anteorbital.
The prefrontals are exteriorly rounded, narrowest in front. The
rostral is broad and low, and scarcely seen in an upper view of the
head. There are two nasals, with the nostril between, encroaching,
however, more upon the postnasal than the prenasal, which appears a
little larger. The loral is elongated and narrow, rounded upon its
upper edge. The anteorbital, narrow upon its base, widens as it
ascends, thrusting itself between the supraoculary and the postfrontal,
and appearing upon the upper surface of the head. There are two
postorbitals, the inferior one being the smallest. An elongated
temporal shield may be seen between the postorbitals, posterior upper
labials, and the occipital plate, followed by two others more scale-like
in their appearance. The upper labials, eight in number, are in-
creasing in size posteriorly ; the fourth and fifth constitute the
inferior rim of the orbit, the anteorbital resting upon the fourth, and
the inferior postorbital upon the fifth. On the right side of our
specimen the seventh and eighth upper labials are united into one
plate. The symphyseal is rather small and triangular. There are
nine, mayhap ten, inferior labial plates ; the first one is vertically
elongated, and meets its fellow so as to inclose the symphyseal, thus
separating it from the anterior pair of mental shields ; the second is
the smallest; they increase in size to the sixth, which is broadly
developed and the largest of all, hence they diminish posteriorly.
The posterior mental shields are very long and slender, longer and
narrower than the anterior pair. The sides of the throat are covered
with elongated scale-like shields.
PITUOPHIS. 133
The specimen described is four feet four inches in total length.
The body is quite slender, thickest upon its middle region, and deeper
than wide throughout its whole extent. It is convex or arched
superiorly and nearly flat beneath. The tail, which measures four-
teen inches, is very slender and tapering into a point; like the body
itself, it is deeper than wide from its base to its extremity. The
sr.ales are quite large, imbricated and emarginated upon their posterior
free edge ; imbricated and disposed upon thirteen longitudinal rows,
on the anterior third of the body, and upon eleven rows posteriorly.
In the dorsal row they are subhexagonal in shape ; in the lateral rows
subrhombic, the one adjoining the abdominal scutellae being much
broader (deeper) than the rest. At the origin of the tail there are
but three rows of scales, the middle row scarcely differing from the
lateral ones, they all being broader than on the sides of the body. On
the latter third of the tail the longitudinal rows of scales are reduced
to two.
We observe two hundred, broad, abdominal scutellae, the preanal
one being subdivided and very convex exteriorly. The subcaudal
scutellae are all divided, one hundred and fifteen in number.
The color is uniformly green, with a light-yellowish line on each
side of the abdomen, intersecting the abdominal scutellae upon their
flexion along the sides, and extending likewise under the tail along
the marginal keel. The skin under the scales is black.
Loc. — This species was collected about Sydney, Australia.
Plate XII, fig. 7, represents Dendropliis prasinus, size of life.
Fig. 8, is a profile of the head.
Fig. 9, an upper view of the same.
Fig. 10, a view of the head, from beneath.
Fig. 11, the dorsal scales.
GENUS PITUOPHIS, HOLBR.
GEX. CHAR. — Body subcylindrical, deeper than broad. Head elon-
gated, ovoid; cleft of mouth curved. Vertex plate elongated. Su-
praocularies large, subtriangular. One or two pairs of postfrontal
plates, an internal and an external pair, both elongated. Prefrontal
34
134 OPHIDIA.
pair subquadrate. A small loral. Three or four postorbitals ;
two anteorbitals or one only. Temporal shields small, scale-like.
Dorsal rows of scales twenty-nine to thirty-five, variable in some
species; those on the back carinated, on the sides smooth. Abdo-
minal scutellae, two hundred and nine to two hundred and forty-
three ; preanal one large and entire. Subcaudal scutellae all
divided. Ground color whitish or reddish-yellow, with a triple
series of dorsal black blotches, largest in the middle series.
Several series of smaller blotches on the sides. Abdomen unicolor
or maculated,- with an outer row of blotches. Head of the same
color as the body, maculated with black ; a narrow band of black
across the upper surface between the eyes, and a posterior vitta
on each side, extending obliquely from the eye to the angle of
the mouth. A black, vertically elongated, patch is often seen
beneath the eye.
S?y.—Pituophis, HOLBR. N. Amer. Herp. IV, 1842, 7.— B. & G. Catal. N. Amer.
Rept. I, 1853, 64.— BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. ge"n. VII, I, 1854, 232.
Pityophis (Holbr.), HALLOW. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 181.
Churchillia, B. & G. Rept. in Stansbury, Expl. Vail, of Gr. Salt Lake of Utah, 1852,
350.
OBSERV. — The species of this genus generally attain a very large
size. They are known in the United States, to which they chiefly
belong, under the common appellations of pine, bull, and pilot snakes.
They are of terrestrial habits. Quite timid in spite of their great
size, they will hiss at the approach of the slightest danger or alarm,
by suddenly inflating their lungs and letting the air escape again.
Their body and head both, will, in such cases, be somewhat flattened,
though never to the same extent as in Hcterodon, or "blowing viper,"
as the latter are commonly called. Under ordinary circumstances,
the vertical diameter of their body is greater than the transversal,
the reverse of what we observe in the subaquatic garter-snakes (Eutae-
nid). The head, in some instances, is quite narrow and tapering ante-
riorly. Oftentimes there are three pairs of frontal plates, one more
than is usually the case : a prefrontal pair and two postfrontal pairs,
the latter placed side by side.
The teeth are equally developed and rather inconspicuous. There
are none upon the premaxillary bones.
PITUOPHIS CATENIFER. 135
1. PlTUOPHIS CATENIFER, B. & G.
(Plate VIII, figs. 1-7.)
SPEC. CHAR. — One pair of postfrontal plates ; two anteorbitals and
three postorbitals. Loral large. Dorsal rows of scales thirty-one
in number ; the external four rows smooth. Tail forming the
seventh of total length. Frontal black band conspicuous. Post-
ocular vitta of a jet black, reaching the margin of the jaw between
the penultimate and last labial plate. Ground color greyish-yellow.
A triple series of dorsal black blotches, sixty-one in number, from
head to origin of tail, forming a continuous chain all along the back.
A series of large, subcircular blotches along the middle of the
flanks. Middle of abdomen unicolor, with a series of black spots
on each side.
SY.V. — Coluber cateni/cr, BLAINV. Nouv. Ann. Mus. d'hist. nat. Ill, 1834, PI. xxvi,
fig. -2, 2 a, 2 b.
Pltuophis catenifer, B. & G. Catal. N. Amer. Kept. I, 1853, 69.
DESCR. — The head is subelliptical, flattened above. The vertex
plate is long, nearly equilateral, except posteriorly, where it is tri-
angular. The supraocularies are large, dilated anteriorly, tapering
posteriorly. The prefrontals are large and subcircular. The rostral
is broad, even with the surface of the snout. The nasals are nearly
equal in size, and the nostril placed between them, near the edge
of the prefrontal. The loral is subtrapezoid, proportionally larger
than in the other species of the genus. There are two anteorbitals ;
the upper one very large ; the lower one small and situated immedi-
ately above the fourth labial. We observe three postorbitals of nearly
equal size. The temporal shields, ten to twelve in number, are slightly
larger than the contiguous scales. There are eight upper labials; the
seventh is the largest. The lower labials are twelve in number, the
fifth and sixth being the largest. The posterior pair of mental shields
is very narrow, extending beyond the sixth lower labial.
The dorsal scales are narrow and rather acute upon their posterior
extremity ; they constitute thirty-one longitudinal series, the outer
one of which composed of scales considerably larger than the rest.
136 OPHIDIA.
They are carinated on the dorsal region and smooth laterally upon
four series on each side. The abdominal scutellae are narrow, two
hundred and thirty in number ; the preanal large and entire. The
subcaudal scutellae are disposed upon a double series of seventy-one
in each. The tail itself is very tapering.
Ground color above fuscous, with a triple series of black blotches
along the back, seventy-eight in number, the sixty-first opposite the
anus; seventeen on the tail. The blotches of the medial series are
proportionally very large, quadrangular, longer than broad, covering
six rows of scales, and the half of the adjoining rows, embracing lon-
gitudinally five or six scales. A narrow light space of one scale exists
between each blotch. The adjoining series is composed of much
smaller blotches, alternating and covering three rows of scales con-
fluent with the middle ones, thus forming a continuous chain on the
back, and inclosing entirely the light spaces between the blotches. A
series of subcircular or oblong blotches runs conspicuously along the
middle of the flanks, on the fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh rows of
scales. These are eighty-eight in number, the seventy-first opposite
the anus, and ten along the anterior half of the tail. The five first
blotches are elongated, and exhibit a tendency towards forming a vitta
or band. From the middle region of the body to the tail, two obsolete
series of very small blotches are seen alternating with the series of the
flanks, one above and one below. The abdomen is yellowish, unicolor,
except a series of blotches on the extremities of the scutellae, extend-
ing sometimes to the outer row of scales.
Loc. — A specimen, thirty-five inches in total length, was collected
at San Francisco, California.
Plate VIII, fig. 1, represents Pituoplds catenifer, size of life.
Fig. 2, is a profile of the head.
Fig. 3, an upper view of the same.
Fig. 4, the head, seen from beneath.
Fig. 5, a front view of the same region.
Fig. 6, exhibits the shape and number of rows of scales.
Fig. 7, the vent and surrounding scutellae.
PITUOPHIS WILKESI. 137
2. PITUOPHIS WILKESI, B. & G.
(Plate IX, figs. 1-7.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Scuds postfrontalibus in dua paria disposiiis. Squamis
dorsualibiis in 29—31 series lonyitudimtles ordinatis ; tribus seriebus
externis laevibus. Cauda circiter sextain longitudinis partem efficiente.
Vitta postoculari, super ultimam labialem, usque ad oris angulum
2'i'otensa. Colore flavido, dorsuali serie subquadratorum et duabus
lateraUbus seriebus subcircularum fuscarum macularum, notato.
SPEC. CHAR. — Two pairs of postfrontal plates. Dorsal series of scales,
twenty-nine to thirty-one; the three outer series smooth. Tail about
the sixth of total length. Postocular vitta running over the last
labial to the angle of the mouth. Ground color yellowish, with a
dorsal series of subquadrate, and two lateral series of siibcircular
blotches.
Z^y.—Pituophis wilkesii, B. & G. Catal. X. Amer. Kept. I, 1853, 71.
DESCR. — The head is elongated, subelliptical, subpyramidal or sub-
conical. The occipital plates are much longer than broad, and longer
than either the vertex or the supraoculars. The vertex plate is penta-
gonal, laterally concave, and posteriorly tapering; its length is greater
than the width of its anterior margin. The external postfrontals are
sometimes divided into two distinct plates, one of which having been
called upper loral. The internal postfrontals are elongated, very
narrow posteriorly, sometimes subdivided also. The rostral is broad,
superiorly rounded and not engaged between the prefrontals. The
nasals are of equal size, with the nostril intermediate, and situated
nearer the frontal than the labials. The loral is of moderate develop-
ment. The lower anteorbital is small, and situated upon the com-
missure between the fourth and fifth upper labials. The postorbitals
are nearly of equal size, and generally they constitute a continuous
chain with the anteorbitals, thus excluding the labials from the orbit,
into which, however, the fifth occasionally enters. The temporal
shields are scarcely distinguishable from the ordinary scales. The
upper labials are eight or nine in number; the fourth or fifth oc-
casionally entering into the orbit, the penultimate being the largest.
35
138 OP HID I A.
There are twelve or thirteen lower labials ; the fifth or sixth the
largest, and the six posterior ones very much reduced in size.
The dorsal scales are elliptical, disposed upon twenty-nine to thirty-
one longitudinal series, the outer three series being perfectly smooth,
whilst a slight carination may be observed upon the fourth and fifth
series. The carinae on the remaining series are not very conspicuous.
The tail is conical and tapering. The abdominal scutellae are
numerous, from two hundred and nine to two hundred and fifteen,
the preanal one being entire. The subcaudal scutellae range between
fifty-six and seventy-two, and are disposed upon a double series.
The ground color is yellowish, with a dorsal series of subquadrate
blotches, about ninety in number, twenty of which are on the tail.
These are deep-brown, margined with black anteriorly, entirely black
posteriorly ; these blotches cover transversely eight or nine rows of
scales, embracing longitudinally five to seven scales on the anterior
region of the body, and two or three posteriorly. The spaces between
the blotches are of the uniform width of one scale for the whole length
of the body, decidedly narrower than in other species. A lateral series
of blotches on each side of the medial, covering three rows of scales,
and alternating with the medial series. A series of blotches along
the middle of the flanks opposite to the blotches of the medial series
of the back. On the anterior part of the body the lateral blotches
are elongated, and occasionally combine into a band or vitta behind
the neck. On the anterior third of the body, an indistinct series of
black spots may be seen, between the scutellae and the outer series of
lateral blotches. Inferior surface of head and abdomen dull yellowish-
white, with two series of distant blotches, the outer series more con-
spicuous than the inner one, and extending to the tip Of the tail.
In the young, the middle region of the abdomen is unicolor, and the
external series of spots only exists, which, together with the series on
the middle of the flanks, are most conspicuous.
Loc. — Specimens of this species were collected in Washington
Territory, as far north as Puget Sound, the largest of which measures
nearly forty-two inches.
Plate IX, fig. 1, represents Pituoplds tcilkesi, size of life.
Fig. 2, is a profile view of the head.
Fig. 3, a front view of the same.
CALLIRHIXUS P A T A G 0 X I E X S I S. 139
Fig. 4, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 5, a lower view of the same.
Fig. 6, the vent and preanal scutella.
Fig. 7j the dorsal scales.
GEXUS CALLIRHINUS, GIRARD.
CHAR. GEX. — Capite et corpore colubriformibus. Rostro subconico, ultra
maxiUam inferiorem protenso. Scuto verticis elongate, rostrali
convexo. Scutis nasalibus duobus ; nare in sutura sita. Scutw
loreis duobus, praeorbitali uno, postorbitalilius duobus ; labicdibus
tertio et quarto in orbitam product is. Squamis modicis, laevibus.
Scutella praeanali divisa. Scutellis subcaudalibus in seriem duplicem
ordinatis.
GEN. CHAR. — Head and body colubrine. Snout subconical, protruding
beyond the lower jaw. Vertex plate elongated. Rostral convex.
Two nasal plates, with nostril between them. Two loral plates.
One anteorbital and two postorbitals. Third and fourth upper
labials entering into the orbit. Scales moderate, smooth. Preanal
Bcutella divided. Subcaudal scutellae disposed upon a double series.
PYX. — C'altirhinus, GED. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. August, 1857, p. 182.
OBSERV. — This genus is related to Rldnechis and PltuopJtls ; the
labial plates are less numerous than in the latter two genera, and so
also are the series of dorsal scales. The teeth are uniform and mo-
derately developed. The eye is large, and the pupil circular. The
preanal scutella is subdivided, as in Rhinechis.
CALLIRHINUS PATAGOXIENSIS, Grd.
(Plate XII, figs. 1-6.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Squamis in novemdecim series lonyitudinales dispositis.
Colore olivaceo, rtigro-maculato.
140
0 P II I D I A.
SPEC. CHAR. — Scales disposed upon nineteen longitudinal series.
Ground color olivaceous, maculated with black.
SYN. — Callirhinus patayoniensis, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. August, 1857,
p. 182.
DESCR. — The head is but moderately elongated, depressed, flattened
upon the occipital region, and slightly declivous forwards upon the
frontal region. Viewed from above its shape is subovoid or sub-
elliptical ; the temporal region passing gradually to the neck, which
is more slender than the body. The snout is subconical, and protrudes
beyond the lower jaw. The cleft of the mouth is ascending towards
its angles. The occipital plates are broadly developed, a little longer
than broad anteriorly, and tapering considerably. The vertex plate
is as long as the occipitals, maintaining its width posteriorly, where
it is subangular ; its sides being slightly concave. The supraoculars
are likewise well developed, being as long as the vertex plate and but a
little narrower anteriorly than posteriorly ; they are slightly concave
laterally. The frontal plates are subangular, the postfrontals being
larger than the prefrontals. The rostral is elevated, subpyramidal,
concave beneath. There are two well-developed and elevated nasals,
with the nostril between them, encroaching more upon the postnasal.
We observe two quadrangular loral plates, the uppermost being the
smallest of the two ; its presence prevents the postfrontal from
advancing much to the side of the snout. There is but one ante-
orbital, quite narrow inferiorly, widening towards the supraocular
ridge, hence sending a triangular process to the upper surface of the
head, between the supraocular and the postfrontal. The postorbitals
are two in number, the upper one being the largest of the two. The
temporal shields, six in number, are conspicuous ; the anterior one is
the largest. There are seven well-developed upper labials, increasing
in size from the first to the sixth inclusively ; the seventh is larger
than the fourth ; the third and fourth enter into the orbit. The
symphyseal is acutely triangular, and inclosed by the first pair of
inferior labials, which are elongated and sub-lanceolated. We observe
ten inferior labials, increasing in size from the second to the sixth ;
the others diminish posteriorly, being horizontally elongated, instead
of vertically ; the tenth is the smallest of all. There are two pairs
of mental shields, nearly equal in length, but the anterior pair is
broader and consequently larger. Elongated scale-like shields occupy
the region of the throat.
S I B Y X 0 X.
The bocty is elongated, subcylindrical, being flattened beneath.
The tail, which forms about the fifth of the total length, is subconical
and tapering. The scales are perfectly smooth and imbricated, dis-
posed upon nineteen longitudinal series, nine of which may still be
counted upon the base of the tail. Those constituting the series
adjoining the abdominal scutellae are broad, and much larger than
the rest, which are sub-lanceolated, except on the second series, where
they assume the subrhombic shape of the outer series. The skin
is black. The abdominal scutellae are well developed transversely ;
they are one hundred and eighty-seven in number, the preanal one
being subdivided, broad, and convex exteriorly. The subcaudal
scutellae are sixty-nine in number, and disposed upon a double series.
We have examined two specimens of this species, one measuring
thirty-six inches in total length, and the tail separately seven inches
and a half; the other, whose total length was twenty-three inches,
gave five inches and a half to the tail. The dorsal scales are disposed
upon nineteen longitudinal rows or series; the abdominal scutellae,
in the largest specimen, are one hundred and eighty -seven, and the
subcaudals sixty-nine pairs, whilst in the smallest, the abdominals are
one hundred and seventy-seven, and the subcaudals seventy-six. The
preanal scutellae being subdivided.
The color above is olivaceous, with the base and tip of the scales
black, hence the appearance of transverse, oblique, black, interrupted
lines ; sometimes the upper region of the body has a maculated ap-
pearance, from the spreading of the black over the base of the scales.
The edges of the cephalic plates are black also. The inferior region
is of a uniform pale-yellow, with a black spot at the posterior and
external margin of the scutellae, hence a series of small black spots
on either side of the abdomen, and which may be traced to a certain
distance along the tail.
Loc. — Specimens of this species were collected on the coast of
Patagonia, about the mouth of the Rio Negro.
Plate XII, fig. 1, represents Callirhinus p<itagoniensis, size of life.
Fig. 2, is a profile view of the head.
Fig. 3, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 4, the same region, seen from beneath.
36
142 OPHIDIA.
Fig. 5, exhibits the shape arid the number of dorsal rows of scales.
Fig. 6, represents the vent and the surrounding scutellae.
GENUS SIBYNON, FITZ.
GEN. CHAR. — The generic characters, as derived from the species de-
scribed further on, are as follows : Supracephalic plates normal ; two
nasals ; no loral ; one anteorbital, or else one loral and no anteorbi-
tal; two postorbitals. Scales smooth, disposed upon fifteen longitudi-
nal series. Preanal scutella entire; subcaudal scutellae disposed
upon a double series.
SYN.— Sibynon, FITZ, Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 27.
Petalognathus, BUM. & BIBR. Erp. gen. VII, I, 1854, 463.
OBSERV. — This genus is one of the many subgenera into which
Fitzinger subdivides his genus DipsadomorpTms. The characters as-
signed to each by their author are, so far, left with us to conjecture.
The typical species is Coluber nebulatus, of Linnaeus, originally found
at Surinam, and subsequently in Mexico, and still more recently in
Peru.
SIBYNON NEBULATUS, Fitz.
(Plate XI, figs. 11-16.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Body compressed. Prefrontal plates very small. Back
transversely black blotched, with a narrow white or yellow space
between the blotches, widening towards the sides, which are macu-
lated, as well as the abdomen.
SYN. — Coluber nebulatus, LINN. Mus. Adolph. Fred. 1754, 32, Tab. xxiv, fig. 1 ;
Syst. Nat. ed. X% I, 1758, 222 ; et ed. XII", I, 1766, 388.— GMEL. Linn. Syst. Nat.
XIIL, I, iii, 1788, 1107.
Coluber sibon, LINN. Syst. Nat. ed. X", I, 1758, 222; et ed. XII", I, 1766, 388.
— GMEL. Linn. Syst. Nat. ed. XIII», I, iii, 1788, 1107.
Sibon nebulatus, FITZ. N.. Class. Kept. 1826, 60.
Dipsag nebulata, BOIE, in Oken's Isis, XX, 1827, 550. — SCHLEG. Ess. Phys. Serp.
1, 1837, 162; & II, 275, PL xi, figs. 14 and 15.— FILIPP. Bibliot. Italian. XCIX, 1840.
Petaloynathus nebulatus, DUM. & BIBR. Erp gen. VII, i, 1854, 464.
SIBYNON XEBULATUS. 143
OBSERV. — The synonyms not quoted above, may easily be found in
the systematic writers on the subject. Had we had more ample mate-
rials at our command, we would have investigated more thoroughly
the history of the present species, represented in the collection of
the United States Exploring Expedition by a single specimen, yet
immature.
DESCR. — The head is depressed, superiorly flattened, ovoid when
viewed from above, and quite distinct from the neck. The snout is
rounded and the jaws even. The cleft of the mouth is large, sub-
concave beneath the eye, and not raised upwards towards its angle.
The eyes are well developed and circular, and the nostrils situated
between two plates. The occipital plates are large, admitting the
posterior extremity of the vertex plate between their commissure.
The vertex plate is broad and short. The supraoculars are nar-
rower anteriorly than posteriorly, and nearly as long as the vertex
plate, though extending a little more forwards. The postfrontals
are quite large, subangular, extending somewhat to the loral region.
The prefrontals are very small, subtriangular, and declivous forwards.
The rostral is subcouical, concave inferiorly, occupying exclusively the
anterior portion of the snout. The prenasal is larger than the post-
nasal; the nostril apparently perforates equally both plates. There
is no loral. A large and subquadrangular anteorbital is contiguous
to the postnasal, being a little longer than deep. We observe two
postorbitals on the left and three on the right, but the inferior two
are very small compared to the upper one, so in fact the normal num-
ber is probably two, the uppermost being, at any rate, the largest.
The temporal shields are scale-like, and a little larger than the scales
themselves. There are six upper labials, the third and fourth enter-
ing into the orbit ; the fifth and sixth are the largest, horizontally
elongated, whilst the anterior four are deeper than long, and nearly
equal in size, with the exception of the fourth, which is a little larger
than the anterior three. The symphyseal is small and subtriangular,
entirely inclosed by the first pair of lower labials, which are well
developed. There are ten pairs of lower labials; the second, third,
and fourth are smaller than the first, and slightly increasing in size
backwards ; the fifth is the largest ; the posterior five are irregular
in size, and elongated horizontally. Three pairs of subquadrangular
144 OP HID I A.
mental shields may be observed extending to the anterior abdominal
scutella. There are a few lateral scale-like shields on the throat.
The neck and body are slender, subcylindrical, a little deeper than
wide. The tail is short, conical, and very slender. The scales are
subrhomboid, disposed upon fifteen longitudinal series, eight of which
may yet be observed upon the base of the tail. Those in the lateral
series are but slightly larger than the rest. The abdominal scutellae
are narrow, one hundred and eighty in number, the preanal one being
large and entire. The subcaudal scutellae are disposed upon a double
series, sixty-three in number.
Dorsal rows fifteen ; abdominal scutellae one hundred and eighty ;
subcaudal scutellae sixty-three ; total length nine inches ; tail two
inches.
The upper surface of the head is yellowish-brown, with a black spot
upon the external margin of the supraocular plates. A black horse-
shoe-like marking exists upon the occipital plates. The posterior two
upper labials are almost black; the temporal region is spotted likewise.
The upper part of the body is covered with transverse black patches,
separated by narrow whitish spaces, giving to the body a semi-annulated
appearance. On the posterior half of the body these patches are inter-
rupted laterally, and in most instances the divided blotches of the
sides alternate with the dorsal one. The abdomen is dull-whitish,
laterally maculated, the extremity of which maculae corresponding
to the white spaces, which expand on the sides, owing to the narrow-
ing of the black patches upon the same region.
LOG. — Found coiled up under a stone, in the Amancaes Valley,
near Lima, Peru.
Plate XI, fig. 11, represents Sibynon nebulatus, size of life.
Fig. 12, is a profile of the head.
Fig. 13, an upper view of the same.
Fig. 14, an under view of the head also.
Fig. 15, represents the outline of the scales.
Fig. 16, the vent and adjoining scutellae.
Figs. 12-16, are magnified about half their diameter.
TROPIDONOTUS JUNCEUS. 145
TROPIDONOTUS JUNCEUS. Cantor.
(Plate XIII, figs. 1-6.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Dorsal scales disposed upon nineteen longitudinal series.
Greyish-olive above, with a double series of black dots along the
back ; a series of yellowish spots exteriorly to the former, and a
lateral series of black spots. Abdomen yellowish ; margin of the
scutellae maculated with blackish-brown.
SYN. — Tropidonotus junceus, CASTOR, in Journ. Asiat. Soc. XVI, 1847, 93.
OBSERV. — This species is allied to T. spitogaster. The specimen
which we describe is not a full-grown one, and exhibits a coloration
somewhat at variance in its details with the one described by Cantor.
Thus, the head above is of a shining-brown upon the snout only, and
the oblique gamboge band, from the angle of the mouth, extends no
further than the sides of the neck. The dorsal and lateral series of
black dots probably disappear in the adult, for the lateral series is
already very obsolete, especially from the middle of the body poste-
riorly.
DESCR. — The head is depressed, ovoid when viewed from above,
and quite distinct from the neck, which is slender as well as the
body. The eyes are very large and the nostrils also. The mouth is
deeply cleft, forming an open curve. The occipital plates are very
large. The vertex plate is also well developed, much longer than
broad, six-sided, subangular anteriorly, acutely triangular posteriorly,
with its sides parallel. The supraoculars are rather narrow and
elongated, broadest posteriorly, and longer than the vertex plate.
The postfrontals are subquadrangular, larger than the prefrontals,
and sending off a small process to the loral region. The prefrontals
are subtriangular, being exteriorly rounded. The rostral is broad,
superiorly rounded, inferiorly concave, and occupies exclusively the
rostral region proper, its edge alone being seen in an upper view of the
head. The prenasal is subquadrangular, much larger than the post-
nasal, and bearing the nostril upon its posterior edge. The postnasal
is vertically elongated and subcrescentic. The loral is subelliptical
37
146 OPHIDIA.
and higher than long. The anteorbital is narrower inferiorly than
superiorly. There are three postorbitals ; the uppermost is slightly
larger than the others. The upper labials, nine in number, gradually
increase in size from the first to the seventh, hence diminish again
posteriorly, though the eighth and ninth are as large as the fifth and
sixth ; the fourth, fifth, and sixth enter into the orbit, the fourth but
slightly. The symphyseal is small and triangular, entirely inclosed
by the first pair of lower labials. The latter are ten in number, in-
creasing in size to the eighth ; the ninth and tenth are narrow and
elongated. There are two pairs of mental shields, both narrow and
elongated, the posterior pair more so than the anterior one, and
diverging from their base, whilst, in the latter pair, they are disposed
side by side, and contiguous upon their entire length. The throat is
covered with elongated scales, varying in size.
The dorsal scales are all carinated, and disposed upon nineteen
longitudinal rows. The row adjoining the abdominal scutellae is com-
posed of broader scales than the rest, which are narrow and lanceo-
lated, the more so as they approximate the middle line of the back.
They constitute eight or nine rows upon the base of the tail; the latter
is conical and tapering, not forming the third of the entire length. The
keels do not extend quite to the tip of the scales, which are slightly
notched or else emarginated. The abdominal scutellae are very much
developed transversely; there are a hundred and forty of them, the
preanal one being subdivided. The subcaudal scutellae are disposed
upon a double series and eighty-six in number.
Dorsal row nineteen ; abdominal scutellae one hundred and forty ;
subcaudal scutellae eighty-six ; total length eighteen inches ; tail five
and a half inches.
The upper surface of the head is blackish-brown, vermiculated with
greenish-olive. The labials are yellowish, with a vertical black streak
upon their commissure. The body above is greyish-olive, with a double
series of black dots along the middle of the back, exteriorly of which,
and along the upper portion of the sides, is a series of transversely
elongated yellowish or whitish spots, beneath which is another series
of black spots. Upon the neck the spots are much larger, making
this region appear almost entirely black. The upper part of the tail
ia blackish-brown. The abdominal region is yellowish, the anterior
margin of the scutellae maculated with blackish-brown, from the
middle of the body posteriorly : anteriorly the outer portion alone is
EUTAENIA. 147
spotter], with a tendency of the spots to appear upon every other scu-
tella only. As they approximate the neck, under which these spots
increase, they cover two scutellae, leaving two unicolor ones inter-
vening. The anterior half of the subcaudal scutellae is black ; the
posterior half is yellowish.
Loc. — From Singapore.
Plate XIII, fig. 1, represents Tropidonotus junceus, size of life.
Fig. 2, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 3, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 4, the head, seen from beneath.
Fig. 5, represents the dorsal scales.
Fig. 6, the vent and surrounding scutellae.
GEXUS EUTAENIA, B. & G.
CHAR. GEN*. — Scutis cephalicis normalibus. Nare inter duos sciitos
/'it-sales sita. Scuto prae.orbitali uno, vel duobus ; postorbitalibus
duoljm vel tribus. Squamis carinati* in novendtcim vd viyiutt unam
series long it ud incites dispositis. Scutellis abdominulibus centum et
quadrayinta vel centum et septuayinta ; subcaudalibus quinquayinta
vel centum et viyinti, in duplicem seriem ordinatis. Scutella praeanali
dirisa. Colo re obscure, tribus pallidis longitudinalibus vittis notato;
inter quas maculae alternantes vel tessellatae inteniuntur. Abdomine
unicolore.
GEN. CHAR. — Cephalic plates normal. Nostrils between two plates.
One or two anteorbitals ; two or three postorbitals. Scales cari-
nated, constituting nineteen or twenty longitudinal series. Preanal
scutella entire ; subcaudal scutellae disposed upon a double series.
Abdominal scutellae one hundred and forty to one hundred and
seventy ; subcaudals fifty to one hundred and twenty. General
color, three light stripes on a darker ground ; intervals with alter-
nating or tessellated spots. Abdomen without square blotches.
SYN.— Eutaenia, B. & G. Catal. Kept. X. Amer. I, 1853, '24 ; and in Afarcy'x Expl.
Red River of La. 1855, 190.
148 OPHIDIA.
OBSERV. — The body is stoutish in certain species and slender in
others, capable of being somewhat depressed or flattened in water,
into which they occasionally enter, though most of the species are
terrestrial; many of them being ovo-viviparous. The skin is very ex-
tensible.
The genus, which includes the so-called garter and striped snakes,
seems to be peculiar to North America, and the analogue of the Tropi-
donoti of the ancient world.
1. EUTAENIA INFERNALIS, B. & G.
(Plate XIV, figs. 11-16.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Corpore gracilissimo. Capite et oculo magnis. Scuto
praeorbltali uno ; postorbitalibus trilms, inaequaUbus. Squamis
dorsualibus in novemdecim aeries longitudinoles dispositis ; omnibus
conspicue carinalis. Supra nigro colore ; serie flavo-rubescentium
macidarum cum obsoleta vitta laterali, ipsaque vitta cum palleo-viri-
descente colore laterum et abdominis, confluentibus.
SPEC. CHAR. — Body very slender. Head and eye large. One ante-
orbital ; three unequal postorbitals. Nineteen dorsal rows of scales,
all conspicuously carinated. Above black : a series of reddish-
yellow spots, confluent with the indistinct lateral stripe, itself con-
fluent with the greenish-white of the sides and abdomen.
SYN. — Coluber infernalis, BLAINV. Nouv. Ann. Mus. d'hist. nat. Ill, 1834, 59, PI.
xxvi, figs. 3 & 3 a.
Eutaenia infernalis, B. & G. Catal. N. Amer. Kept. I, 1853, 26.
DESCR.— One single specimen of this species was collected. It is
about fourteen inches in total length and very slender. The eye is
very large. The anteorbital plate preserves its width downwards, its
anterior margin being subrounded or subconvex. The postorbitals,
three in number, are unequal in their development : the lowermost
being quite small and the middle one considerably the largest. The
loral is well developed, subquadrangular, or trapezoid. The post-
nasal is smaller than the prenasal, in the posterior margin of which
the nostril exclusively opens. The rostral is large, six-sided, though
EUTAEXIA INFERNALIS. 149
of a triangular aspect. The postfrontal extends to the upper half of
the loral region. The vertex plate is subhexagonal, quite broad,
maintaining its width posteriorly. There are seven upper labials ; the
third and fourth situated beneath the eye ; the fifth and sixth are the
largest of the series. The lower labial plates are ten in number. The
anterior meets its fellow under the chin, and thus interposes itself
between the triangular symphyseal and the anterior pair of mental
shields. The second labial is the smallest of all ; they increase in size to
the sixth, which is the largest, diminishing again from the seventh,
posteriorly. The posterior pair of mental shields is longer and more
slender than the anterior pair, which are contiguous upon their inner
edge, where three or four elongated scales may be observed, inter-
vening between the posterior pair.
The tail, which is very slender, constitutes about the fourth of the
total length.
The dorsal scales are disposed upon nineteen longitudinal rows; the
external row, though larger, is carinated like the rest. On the tail the
scales are likewise carinated. There are one hundred and sixty-six
abdominal scutellae, and eighty-five pairs of subcaudal ones.
As to the coloration, there is a vertebral line of yellowish-white,
composed of one and two half rows of scales, on each side of which is
a blackish stripe, not encroaching upon the light colored stripe along
the second and third lateral rows of scales. Above the latter the black
is interrupted by about one hundred and ten subtriangular spots of
reddish-yellow or reddish-white. The abdomen and exterior row of
dorsal scales are greenish-white, tinged posteriorly with a slate hue.
A minute black spot, more or less covered by the incumbent scales,
may be seen on each abdominal scutella, near its extremity.
Loc. — From the neighborhood of Sacramento River, California.
Plate XIV, fig. 11, represents Eutaenia infernalis, size of life.
Fig. 12, is a profile of the head.
Fig. 13, an upper view of the same.
Fig. 14, the head, seen from beneath.
Fig. 15, exhibits the dorsal scales.
Fig. 16, the vent and surrounding scutellae.
Figs. 12-16, are magnified about one diameter.
150 OP HID I A.
2. EUTAENIA PICKERINGI, B. & G.
(Plate XIII, figs. 14-20.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Corpore gracili. Capite et oculo modicis. Scuto prae-
orbitali uno ; postorbitalibus tribus, aequalibus. Squamis dorsualibue
in novemdecim series dispositis, omnibus carinatis. Supra nigro; infra
lapidis fissilis color is. Vittis laterah'bus irregularibus, confluent iiius,
cum pallldis intervallis inter fuscas maculas.
SPEC. CHAR. — Body slender. Head and eye moderate in size. One
anteorbital ; three postorbitals, of equal development. Dorsal scales
disposed upon nineteen rows, all carinated. Black above ; slate
color beneath. Lateral stripe irregular, confluent, with the light-
colored intervals between the dark spots.
SYN. — Eutaenia pickeringii, B. & Gr. Catal. N. Amer. Kept. I, 1853, 27.
DESCR. — The cephalic plates present the same general aspect as in
E. inf emails. A feature, however, peculiar to the present species,
may be observed amongst the postorbital plates, which are nearly of
equal size, the middle one, mayhap, a little smaller than the others.
The nostril encroaches somewhat upon the postnasal, which is nearly
equal in size with the prenasal. The labial plates are conspicuously
developed. The abdominal scutellae average from one hundred and
fifty-eight to one hundred and seventy, and the subcaudal ones from
seventy-three to eighty-seven.
The inequality between the exterior dorsal row of scales and the
rest is scarcely appreciable. The former is rather the larger, and little
or not at all keeled; the second row is about the same size with the
rest. The eyes are larger, and the head shorter than in E. leptocephala,
from the same locality.
This species exhibits great variations in color, principally in regard
to the amount of black on the abdomen, and the extent of the stripes.
The most strongly marked specimen is of an intense black, tinged with
bluish below. There is a very narrow greenish-white vertebral line,
beginning at the nape, where it occupies one and two half-scales, and
gradually narrows to the keel of the middle dorsal row, becoming ob-
solete at the anus. The keels of the second and third rows of scales
show a faint line of greenish-white, only perceptible on close examina-
EUTAEXIA LEPTOCEPHALA.
tion. The lores, labials, cheeks, and head beneath, are greenish-white,
gradually shading into the slate hue of the abdomen.
In another specimen, with the general color very dark, the vertebral
line occupies one and two half-scales throughout. The black on each
side appears formed by the confluence above of about seventy-six spots
from head to anus, each spot from one and a half to two scales long.
The lateral stripe is on the second lateral row of scales, of a greenish-
white color, and confluent with the intervals of the spots, also of the
same color. The stripe is not well defined, but swells and narrows
like a knotted cord. The exterior row of dorsal scales and the sides
of the abdomen are deep blue-black, becoming greenish toward the
middle of the abdomen ; anteriorly, the color shows more white.
Loc. — This species was collected up Puget Sound, Oregon.
Plate XIII, fig. 14, represents Eutaenm pickeringi, size of life.
Fig. 15, is a profile of the head.
Fig. 16, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 17, the head, seen from beneath.
Fig. 18. a front view of the head.
Fig. 19, exhibits the dorsal scales.
Fig. 20, is the vent, with its surrounding scutellae.
3. EUTAEXIA LEPTOCEPHALA, B. & G.
(Plate XIII, figs. 7-13.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Capita gracili, supra piano. Scidis praeorbitalibus duo-
bus, postorbitalibus tribus, aequalibus. Squamis dorsualibm in series
nooemdecim <V/.^o -///*. xnp^r mujorem caudae partem obsolete carinatis :
duabus externis seriebus, in utroque latere, inaequaUbiis, quam caeteris
tame/i vahle amplioribus ; extrema serie laeve. Supra pallide fusco-
oUcaceo ; parcis conspicuis et fuscis maculis in una serie, a capite
usque ad caudae incipium, ordinati-s.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head slender, plane above. Two anteorbitals, and three
postorbitals of equal development. Dorsal scales in nineteen series,
scarcely carinated on the greater portion of the tail; the two ex-
ternal rows, on each side, unequal, but considerably larger than the
152 OPHIDIA.
rest ; outermost smooth. Color above light olive-brown, with con-
spicuous small dark spots, in a series, from head to origin of the tail.
SYN. — Eutaenia leptocephala, B. & G. Catal. N. Amer. Kept. I, 1853, 29.
DESCR. — The head is narrow and depressed; its upper surface being
nearly plane, from the occiput to the prefrontal plates. The labials
are rather narrow. The eye is rather small. There are two nearly
equal and large anteorbitals, and three subquadrangular postorbitals,
almost equal also in size. The dorsal scales are disposed upon nine-
teen rows; the exterior row broader than usual, and not carinated ;
the second row is smaller than the first, but broader also than usual,
and but faintly carinated ; the remaining rows are all distinctly cari-
nated. The abdominal scutellae are from one hundred and forty-four
to one hundred and forty-nine in number, and the subcaudal ones
from fifty-nine to sixty-six pairs.
The color is dull light olive-brown or light chocolate above ; pale
greenish-slate beneath. When the epidermis is removed, the subjacent
skin of the abdomen is seen minutely punctured and clouded with
black, so as to impart this latter color to the whole, except near the
sides. A vertebral dull yellowish line, covering but a single row of
scales, appears more prominent than the rest. On each side of this
vertebral line are two series of subquadrate black blotches, about one
hundred and thirty from the head to the vent, on about every other
scale or even closer, and showing very conspicuously on the clear ground
color. The bases of all the scales on the sides of the body are more or
less black, occasionally showing beyond the incumbent edges. There is
little or no indication of a lateral stripe. The lower series of black
spots is continued into a faint line along the side of the head to the orbit.
In one specimen, the coloration is less defined, showing a greenish-
white color above, with tessellated small spots of black.
Loc. — Found, with the preceding species, up Puget Sound, Oregon.
Plate XIII, fig. 7, represents Eutaenia leptocepliala, size of life.
Fig. 8, is a profile of the head. Fig. 9, an upper view ;
Fig. 10, an under view ; and
Fig. 11, a front view of the same region.
Fig. 12, shows the dorsal scales.
Fig. 13, the vent, and surrounding scutellae.
EUTAENIA ORDINOIDES. 153
4. ECTAENIA ORDINOIDES, B. & G.
(Plate XIV, figs. 1-4.)
CHAR. SPEC. — -Corpore brevissimo. Scuto praeorbitali uno; postorbita-
libufs iribtis. Squamis dorsuaUbus in series novemdecim vel viginti
intum difipositis, extrema serie ampliore, carinata. Squamis caudalibm
valde oarinatie. Vitta ttna dorsuali, ima quoque laterali, fiaveis ;
duabns nifjrarum maculamm seriebus in utroque lalere : colore inter
maculas serici superiorisfusco-rubescente; inferioris vero, olicaceo.
SPEC. CHAR. — Body rather stout. One anteorbital ; three postorbital
plates. Dorsal scales in nineteen or twenty-one rows ; exterior one
largest and carinated. Caudal scales strongly carinated. A yellow
dorsal stripe, and one on each side. Flank with two series of black
spots : between the lower series reddish-brown ; between the upper
series olivaceous.
SYN.— Tropidonotus ordinoides, B. & G. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 176.
Eutaenia ordinoides, B. & G. Catal. N. Amer. Kept. I, 1853, 33.
DESCR. — This species attains quite large dimensions. The body is
very stout, and the tail small and tapering. The postnasal plate is
much smaller than the prenasal, in which the nostril is exclusively
situated. There is one anteorbital and three postorbitals, nearly
alike. The eye is of but moderate development. The fourth and
fifth labials constitute the inferior rim of the orbit; the sixth and
seventh are the largest; their entire number is eight, whilst the lower
labials are ten, the fifth and sixth of which are the largest.
The dorsal scales are disposed upon nineteen or twenty-one longitu-
dinal series, all of which are carinated, the external series being much
larger than the rest. The abdominal scutellae are one hundred and
sixty-one to one hundred and sixty-seven in number; the subcaudal
ones averaging between sixty-seven and eighty-five.
A very strongly defined dorsal stripe of a yellowish color, occupies
one and two half-scales. A second line, less distinct, exists along the
second and third rows of scales. On each side, between the dorsal
and lateral stripes, are two series of subquadrate black spots, eighty to
eighty-four in number, arranged alternately, and occupying portions
39
1 54 0 P H I D I A.
of several scales; the spots in the lower series are larger. Intervals
between the lower series of spots occupied by reddish-brown scales,
in shape and color somewhat resembling the dead leaves of the hem-
lock (Alnea canudensis). Intervals between the upper series olivace-
ous-brown, more or less blended with the black. Beneath uniform
greenish-white, with the bases of the scutellae black, as are also the
scales on the exterior rows ; this color, however, rarely shows beyond
the margin of the incumbent scales.
In one specimen, which is much larger than the others, the dorsal
spots form a rather narrow margin to the broad dorsal stripe, and are
more or less confluent with the ground color. The space between the
lower row of spots is pale reddish. Dorsal scales in nineteen series.
Ninety spots from head to anus.
The characters are very strongly marked, and easily recognized.
Loc. — Specimens of this species were collected in California.
Plate XIV, fig. 1, represents Eataenia ordinoides, size of life.
Fig. 2, is a profile of the head.
Fig. 3, an upper view of the head.
Fig. 4, an under view of the same region.
5. EUTAENIA VAGRANS, B. & G.
(Plate XIV, figs. 5-10.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Scuto praeorbitali uno ; scuds postorbitalibus duobus.
Squamis dorsualibus in unam et viginti series dispositis; omnibus,
extrema tantum inconspicue, carinatis. Supra palleo-fusco, infra
lupidis fissilis coloris. Vitta dorsuali per unam squamarum seriem.
Duabus seriebus parvarum nigrarum macularum in ulroque latere.
SPEC. CHAR. — One anteorbital ; two postorbitals. Dorsal scales in
twenty-one rows, all of which carinated, the outermost inconspicu-
ously. Above light-brown; beneath slate color. Vertebral light
line on a single row of scales. Two series of small black spots on
each side.
SYN. — Eutamia vagrans, B. & G. Catal. N. Amer. Kept. I, 1853, 35.
EUTAENIA VAGRANS. 155
OBSERV. — This appears to be a widely spread species over the North
American continent. The specimen brought home by the Expedition
is about twelve inches in total length, that is, somewhat below the
average size.
DESCR. — The anteorbital plate is quite narrow inferiorly. Of the
two postorbitals, the inferior one is by far the highest. The inferior
rim of the orbit is formed by the fourth and fifth labials.
Compared with its nearest neighbor, E. leptocephala, it differs in
having the exterior row of dorsal scales large and carinated, the next
row scarcely, if at all, larger than the rest. The caudal scales are
strongly carinated. The labial plates being very much developed. It
is provided likewise with twenty-one rows of dorsal scales, and one
hundred and six, not one hundred and thirty, spots, in series, from
head to anus. The head is larger and much arched.
The abdominal scutellae are one hundred and sixty-one in number;
the subcaudal ones fifty-three.
Above light-brown ; beneath slate-color (sometimes black), with the
margins of the scutellae black. A dorsal line occupying a single row
of scales, of a dull yellowish color, the tint occasionally running into
the adjoining row. On each side of this, are two series of small black
spots, occupying generally a single scale, and varying from ninety-five
to one hundred and five, from the occiput to the anus. The upper
series runs along the second row of scales from the vertebral row; the
lower series along the seventh.
Loc. — The specimen figured is from Puget Sound, Oregon.
Plate XIV, fig. 5, represents Eutaenia vagrans, size of life.
Fig. 6, is a profile of the head.
Fig. 7, an upper view of the same region.
Fig. 8, a view from beneath.
Fig. 9, exhibits the dorsal scales.
Fig. 10, the vent and adjoining scutellae.
Figs. 7-10, are magnified about one half their diameter.
156 OPHIDIA.
GENUS CANTORIA, GIRARD.
CHAR. GEN. — Corpore subcylindrico, altiore quam latiore, longissimo.
Gauda modica, incipio crassa, postice conical L Capite depresso, nee
a corpore discrete. Ore modico. Oculis minimis. Scuto praefron-
tali, angusto; nasali unico,nare in ejus medio sita; loreo uno. Scutis
orbitalibus oculam circumdantibus. Squamis modicis, laecibus, luci-
dis, in novemdecim series long itud indies dispositis. Scutella praeanali
divisa. Scutellis subcaudalibus in duplicem seriem ordinatis.
GEN. CHAR. — Body subcylindrical, deeper than broad, and very much
elongated. Tail moderate, thick upon its base, and conical poste-
riorly. Head depressed, continuous with the body. Mouth mode-
rate. Eye very small. An odd, narrow prefrontal plate. Nostril
in one single plate, situated upon the upper surface of the head.
One loral. Orbitals constituting a complete circle around the eye.
Scales moderate, smooth, shining, disposed upon nineteen longi-
tudinal series. Preanal scutella divided. Subcaudal scutellae dis-
posed upon a double series.
Srx. — Cantoria, GRD. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. August, 1857, 182.
OBSERV. — The species upon which this genus is founded, has not
been observed, as far as we know, by the authors of the "Erpetologie
gene"rale."
CANTORIA VIOLACEA, Grd.
(Plate XI, figs. 7-10.)
SPEC. CHAR. — An anteorbital; a sub- and a postorbital. Labials very
large. Ground color above reddish-violet, the scales being edged
with white. Beneath pearl-colored.
STN. — Coronella violacea, CANTOR, Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond. VII, 1839, 50.
Cantoria violacea, GRD. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. August, 1857, 182.
OBSERV. — The specimen which we describe appears to constitute a
variety of coloration, similar to what is often observed in Ophibolus
CANTORIA VIOLACEA. 157
sayi, of the United States, the upper region being generally of a
uniform shining reddish-violet, and sometimes exhibiting transverse,
narrow, obsolete, light bands or bars.
DESCR. — The head is of moderate development, almost continuous
with the neck. It is depressed, nearly plane above, and slightly de-
clivous forwards. The snout is obtuse and rounded; the upper jaw
protrudes beyond the lower. The eyes are very small, and situated
towards the upper surface of the head, and directed laterally outwards.
The nostril is small also, perforating one single plate. The mouth
forms an oblique curve, regularly ascending towards its angle.
The occipital plates are the largest of the cephalic series ; they are
elongated, anteriorly angular, irregularly rounded exteriorly. The ver-
tex plate is hexagonal, as broad as it is long, engaging posteriorly between
the occipitals. There is a pair of subcircular or polygonal postfrontals
of moderate size, and an odd, sublanceolated prefrontal, having on its
sides a nasal, reaching anteriorly the rostral, and contiguous posteriorly
to the postfrontals. The nasals are situated on the upper surface of
the snout, bearing the perforation of the nostrils towards their poste-
rior third. They are elliptically or quadrangularly elongated, and of
considerable development. The rostral shows but very little in an
upper view of the head ; it is six-sided, having nearly a square base,
and a triangular summit. The loral is well developed, subtrapezoid in
shape, and showing in an upper view of the head. There is an ante-
orbital, nearly as large as the supraocular, and deeper than broad.
A small subangular postorbital. Two infraorbitals, the posterior small
and subangular, the anterior nearly as large as the anteorbital, exist
under the eye, thus preventing the labials from entering into the orbit.
The orbit, therefore, is formed of four plates, an upper and a lower,
an anterior and a posterior. There is a large and elongated temporal
shield, behind which are several scales, a little larger than the true
scales of the neck. The upper labials are five or six in number, the
first, fifth, and sixth being broader than the rest; all but the sixth are
deeper than broad. The first is subtriangular, situated beneath the
nasal. The symphyseal is small, subtriangularly obtuse, and inclosed
by the first pair of inferior labials, which are narrow and elongated.
There are eight lower labials, much smaller than the upper ; the fifth
is the largest, hence, they diminish anteriorly and posteriorly. There
40
158 OP HID I A.
are two pairs of sublanceolated mental shields, nearly equal in size.
The throat is covered by scale-like shields.
The body is very long, subcylindrical, deeper than wide, a little
thicker upon its middle, diminishing very gradually forwards and
backwards. The tail is short, forming a little less than the eighth
of the entire length; it tapers into a point, remaining deeper than wide
throughout. The scales are smooth, disposed upon nineteen longitu-
dinal series, subrhomboid, broader on the middle of the sides than
on the dorsal line, where they have a tendency to a sublanceolated
shape, broader also than on the series adjoining the abdominal scu-
tellae ; they are smaller on the neck and larger on the tail than on
the body ; at the base of the tail, they are disposed upon eleven or
twelve longitudinal series. The abdominal region being quite narrow,
the scutellae are transversely short, though otherwise well-developed.
They are two hundred and seventy-eight in number, the last two
being subdivided. The subcaudal scutellae are disposed upon a double
series, sixty-four in number.
The total length of the specimen figured and described is fifty inches ;
six inches belonging to the tail.
The upper regions of the head, body, and tail are reddish-violet. A
few yellowish-white spots may be observed on the head, whilst trans-
verse lines of the same hue are seen on the neck and body, covering
but one scale, inclosing three or four scales of the ground color. These
lines become very obsolete posteriorly, but, wherever they exist, they
divide the color of the back into transverse, oblong, or subelliptical
areas. The inferior region of the head and body is pearl-colored ; the
subcaudal region being maculated with the tint of the back.
Loc. — The specimen figured and described was collected in the
neighborhood of Singapore.
Plate XI, fig. 7, represents Cantoria violacea, size of life.
Fig. 8, is a profile of the head.
Fig. 9, an upper view ; and
Fig. 10, an under view of the same region.
LIOPHIS MERREMI. 159
LlOPHIS MERREMI, "Wagl.
(Plate XI, figs. 1-6.)
OBSERV. — There was but one specimen of this species collected,
thirteen inches and a half in length, and consequently immature. It
is the Coluber doliatus, of the Prince of Neuwied, now generally con-
sidered as a mere variety of coloration of C. merremi, of the same
author. For its synonymy we refer to the " Erpetologie generale,"
of Dumeril and Bibron.
DESCR. — The head is quite depressed, subovoid when viewed 'from
above. The snout is obtusely rounded, and projects somewhat beyond
the lower jaw. The nostril is situated between two plates. The
eyes are of moderate development, and circular in shape. The mouth
is deeply cleft, concave posterior to the eye, and ascending towards its
angle. The occipitals are moderately developed, tapering posteriorly
into an acute angle. The vertex plate is as long as the occipitals, elon-
gated, five-sided, slightly concave laterally, acute-angled posteriorly,
engaging between the occipitals. The supraoculars are shorter than the
vertex plate, narrower anteriorly than posteriorly, and slightly arched
above the eye. The postfrontals are angular, much larger than the pre-
frontals, and sending a process to the loral region. The prefrontals are
subangular. The rostral is semi-elliptical, concave beneath, elevated
so as to be seen in an upper view of the head. The nasals are well
developed, equally perforated by the nostril; they are superiorly acute,
and may be seen in an upper view of the head : the prenasal between
the rostral and the prefrontal, and the postnasal between the prefron-
tal and the postfrontal. The loral is trapezoid, its longest diameter
being obliquely vertical. There is but one anteorbital, very narrow
inferiorly, widening superiorly, and sending a triangular process to
the upper surface of the head, nearly contiguous to the anterior margin
of the vertex plate, between the postfrontal and the supraocular. We
observe two postorbitals, the inferior one being smaller than the upper.
There are two elongated temporal shields, placed one behind the other,
and contiguous to the occipital plate. The upper labials are eight in
number on the right side, and nine on the left ; they increase in size
from the rostral backwards ; the sixth and seventh or seventh and
160 OPHIDIA.
eighth are much larger than the rest ; the last is somewhat smaller
than the penultimate and the ante-penultimate. The triangular sym-
physeal is entirely inclosed by the first pair of lower labials, which are
narrow and acute posteriorly. There are twelve lower labials, increas-
ing in size to the sixth, which is the largest ; they again diminish pos-
teriorly, the eleventh and twelfth being the smallest of all. We observe
two pairs of mental shields ; the anterior pair is longer and broader
than the posterior pair, which is acute, diverging, so as to admit some
of the scale-like shields which cover the throat.
The neck is narrower than the head, and a little more slender than
the body, which is subcircular, being a little deeper than wide ; the
latter tapers posteriorly, passing into the pointed tail, which constitutes
about the fifth of the entire length. The scales are subrhomboid, and
disposed upon nineteen longitudinal series, seven of which may yet be
observed upon the base of the tail. The abdominal scutellae are trans-
versely well-developed, one hundred and seventy-four in number, the
preanal being divided. The subcaudal scutellae are disposed upon a
double series, fifty-eight in each.
The head, anterior to the occipital plates, is deep blackish-brown ;
the occipital region is dull yellow. The upper surface of the body and
tail exhibits a series of black transverse patches, occupying from three
to four and sometimes five scales, giving it a semi-annulated appear-
ance ; these patches, however, are narrower towards the sides ; some-
times they are irregular and interrupted. A whitish-yellow space, of
the width of about two scales, widening towards the sides, alternates
with these black patches. The inferior region is yellowish-white, duller
than on the upper surface, semi-annulated with black, alternating with
the black patches of the back. The inferior half-rings are often inter-
rupted along the mesial line of the abdomen.
Loc. — From the neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Plate XI, fig. 1, represents Liophis merremi, size of life.
Fig. 2, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 3, an upper view ;
Fig. 4, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 5, represents the dorsal scales.
Fig. 6, the vent and adjoining scutellae.
Figs. 2-6, are magnified about half their diameter.
DROMICUS TEMMINCKII.
DROMICUS TEMMINCKII, Dum. & Bibr.
SPEC. CHAR. — ^Middle region of the back exhibiting a broad band of
deep brown or black, on each side of which is a series of whitish dots.
Upon the sides, a band of lighter brown. Tip of scales not covered
by these bands, black.
STN. — Coronetta cfiamissonii, WIEGM. in Nov. Act. nat. CUT. XVII, i, 1835, 246,
PI. xix.
Psammophh temminckn, ScHLEO. Ess. Physion. Serp. I, 1837, 156; & II, 1837,
218, PI. VIH, figs. 14 and 15.— GLICH. in Gny, Hist, de Chile, II, 1848, 83.
Dromicus temminekii, DUM. A; BIBR. Erpet. gen. VII, i, 1854, 663.
Taenioj)his tantillus, GRD. in Proc Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VII, 1854, 227 ; and
in Gilliis, U. S. N. Astr. Exped. to S. Hemisph. II, 1855, 215, PL xxxvn, figs. 7-12
(young).
DESCR. — The head is elongated, depressed, subovoid when viewed
from above ; the occipital region passing gradually to the neck. The
frontal region is slightly declivous; the snout round, and the jaws
even. The mouth is deeply cleft, forming a very open curve. The
eyes are very large, and subcircular ; their horizontal diameter being
comprised about once and a half across the cephalo-ocular region. The
nostrils are quite small, situated upon the middle of the commis-
sure between two nasal plates, and encroaching a little more upon the
prenasal than upon the postnasal. The vertex plate is elongated,
sometimes lanceolated, at others subhexagonal, slightly concave late-
rally, and more truncated anteriorly than posteriorly. The occipitals are
much larger than the vertex plate; they are rounded exteriorly. The
postfrontals are irregularly angular or rounded, encroaching slightly
upon the loral region. The prefrontals, smaller than the postfrontals,
are subtriangular, and externally rounded. The rostral is broad and
low, being but imperfectly seen in an upper view of the head ; it is
arched above, and concave beneath. The nasals are subquadrangular,
nearly equal sized. The loral is elongated and subtrapezoid. There
is but one anteorbital, inferiorly narrow, superiorly broad, sending
a very small triangular process to the upper surface of the head, with-
out, however, isolating entirely the postfrontals from the supraocu-
lars, as previously observed upon immature specimens. The supra-
41
1Q2 OP HID I A.
oculars are well developed, having the form of an elongated obtuse
triangle, narrowest anteriorly. There are two postorbitals; the upper-
most subquadrangular, larger than the lower, which is narrow and
rounded. Two elongated, plate-like, temporal shields, and several
others, scale-like, may be observed. The upper labials are eight in
number, the fourth and fifth forming the inferior rim of the orbit; the
fifth, sixth, and seventh are the largest ; the fourth and eighth are
nearly equal (in size, not in shape), the anterior three being the
smallest. There are ten, mayhap eleven, lower labials, and a small
triangular symphyseal, inclosed by the first pair of labials ; the second
is smaller than the first and third, the fifth and sixth being the largest.
The posterior pair of mental shields is more slender than the anterior
pair.
The body is elongated, subcylindrical, diminishing gradually in thick-
ness backwards. The tail is subconical, elongated, and slender. The
scales are smooth, disposed upon nineteen longitudinal series on the
body, eight upon the base of the tail, and four only towards its tip.
The series adjoining the abdominal scutellae are larger than on the
back ; their form is elongated, sublanceolated on the body, subrhom-
boid, and shorter upon the tail. The abdominal scutellae are of
moderate development, and slightly convex posteriorly ; the preanal
is subdivided. The subcaudal scutellae are disposed upon a double
row ; their numbers, as observed upon two specimens, are as follows :
Abdominal scutellae 189 and 199 ; subcaudal scutellae 101 and 106.
Total lengths three feet two inches and two feet three inches ; tail
eleven inches and seven and a half inches.
The upper surface of the head is deep brown. A dorsal band of the
same color extends from the occiput to the tip of the tail, covering
sometimes five, at others three, series of scales ; when only three, the
adjoining row, on either side, is alternately dotted with white and
black. A narrow band of brown extends from the loral region across
the eye, along the temporal region and the neck, becoming sometimes
very obsolete along the sides of the body. The space not covered by
these bands is yellowish-brown ; every scale bearing a black spot.
A superciliary bright yellowish fillet passes over the temporal region,
separating the dorsal from the lateral deep-brown band. The labials
are of a bright yellow, occasionally margined with black. The abdo-
minal region is yellowish-white, spotted with blackish, the spots being
LYGOPHIS ELEGAXS. 163
quite crowded upon the extremities of the scutellae, so as to assume
a maculated appearance.
Loc. — Specimens of this species were obtained in the hilly region
behind Valparaiso, Chile.
LTGOPHIS ELEGAXS, Tsch.
OBSERV. — The genus Lygophis, proposed by Fitzinger, is character-
ized in the " Fauna Peruana," where the present species is described
and figured.
SYX. — Lyyophis elegnns, TSCH. Faun. Peruan. Herp. 1845, 53, PI. vr.
DESCR. — The head is elongated, very much depressed, flattened
above, subovoid in an upper view, and quite distinct from the neck.
The snout is narrow and rounded, protruding slightly beyond the lower
jaw. The cleft of the mouth is concave beneath the eye. The nos-
tril is situated between two plates, and the eye, very large, is sub-
elliptical in shape. The occipital plates are large ; the vertex plate is
elongated, slightly concave laterally, as broad posteriorly as anteriorly;
its posterior acute extremity being admitted between the commissure
of the occipitals. The supraoculars are nearly as long and quite as broad
as the vertex plate, upon the middle of their length. The postfron-
tals are angular, one-third larger than the subquadrangular prefrontals,
and extend somewhat to the loral region. The rostral is subpyrami-
clal. and very concave beneath. The postnasal is a little larger than
the prenasal, the nostril perforating equally both plates. The loral
is subtrapezoid, with its narrowest angle directed towards the eye.
There is but one anteorbital, inferiorly narrow, widening upwards,
and sending a triangular projection to the upper surface of the head,
without, however, meeting the vertex plate. We observe two post-
orbitals, equal in size. There are six or seven temporal shields ; the
anterior elongated; the others scale-like, though larger than the scales
themselves. The upper labials are seven in number, the third and
fourth entering into the orbit ; the first is the smallest ; they increase
in size from the second to the fifth, which is the largest, hence dimi-
nishing posteriorly. The symphyseal is small, triangular, entirely
164
0 P H I D I A.
inclosed by the first pair of lower labials, which are narrow and lanceo-
lated. The lower labials themselves are eight in number; the second is
the smallest; they increase in size to the fifth, which is the largest, hence
diminishing posteriorly ; the fourth, however, is nearly as large as the
fifth. The mental shields are slender ; the anterior pair, acute upon
both extremities, are a little shorter than the posterior pair, which are
rounded posteriorly, and diverging in order to admit a few of the
small and numerous scale-like shields which cover the throat.
The neck and body are slender and subcircular. The tail is very
much tapering towards a filiform point. The scales are subrhomboid,
slightly carinated on the back, disposed upon seventeen longitudinal
series, eight of which may be observed upon the base of the tail. The
series adjoining the abdominal scutellae is smooth, and much larger
than the others. The abdominal scutellae are rather narrow, two
hundred in number, the preanal one being subdivided ; the subcaudal
scutellae are disposed upon a double series, about one hundred and
fifteen in number.
The total length of the specimen described is nine and a half inches,
giving two and a half inches to the tail.
The ground color is bluish-grey above. A double series of roundish
deep-brown spots, with a marginal black fillet, may be observed along
the dorsal region, contiguous upon their inner margins, with a tendency
now and then to alternate ; towards the posterior portion of the body,
they emerge into a uniform band, which may be traced tapering down
the tail, still margined with a black fillet. On each side of the body is
a series of much smaller spots, sometimes opposite to one another, at
others, alternating with the dorsal series, and anteriorly with a vitta
of the same hue, which exists along the temporal region, across the
eye to the nostril. The upper surface of the head being merely spotted.
The scales of the two external rows are light brown upon their middle.
The extremities of the abdominal scutellae are spotted, which spots
constitute an abdominal series on each side. The inferior region,
otherwise, is of a uniform yellowish hue.
LOG. — A small specimen was obtained at San Lorenzo, coast of
Peru.
AMPHIESMA RHODOMELAS. 165
AMPHIESMA RHODOMELAS, Dum. & Bibr.
SPEC. CHAR. — Above brick-red, with a dorsal black or brown band,
bifurcated upon the hind part of the neck. On the sides a series of
black dots.
SYN. — Tropidonotus rhodomelas, SCHLEO. Ess. Physion. Serp. I, 1837, 167; et, II,
1837, 310, PI. xn, figs. 10 & 11.
Amphiesma rhodomelas, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. VII, r, 1854, 737.
DESCR. — The head is rather short, broad across the temporal region,
and narrow anteriorly ; its upper surface being convex. The snout is
bluntly rounded, projecting over the lower jaw. The nostril is situ-
ated between two plates. The eyes are very large and circular, with
a large and circular pupil also. The mouth is deeply cleft, concave
posterior to the orbit, and ascending towards its angle. The occipital
plates are elongated, twice as broad upon their middle as they are
long. The vertex plate is large, obtusely six-sided, tapering poste-
riorly, in the general appearance of an isoceles triangle, and shorter
than the occipitals. The supraoculars are of the same length as the
vertex plate, rather narrow anteriorly, and slightly arched above the
eye. The postfrontals are much larger than the prefrontals, extending
somewhat to the sides of the head ; seen from above, they have a sub-
quadrangular aspect. The prefrontals are rounded exteriorly. The
rostral is broad and low, semicircular, convex above, concave beneath.
The prenasal is smaller than the postnasal ; the nostril, which is very
large, perforates equally both plates. The loral is subtrapezoid. We
observe three anteorbitals ; the uppermost is the largest, and angular
in shape, and does not extend to the upper surface of the head ; the
middle one is much smaller than the preceding ; the third or lower one
is exceedingly small, resting above the commissure between the third
and fourth labials. There are four postorbitals, the uppermost being
the largest, the others diminishing gradually in size ; the lower one,
however, is more conspicuous than its fellow at the anterior rim of the
orbit. Five or more temporal shields may be observed, the anterior
two being elongated, and much more developed than the rest. The
upper labials are eight in number ; the first is very small, and situ-
ated beneath the prenasal ; they increase in size from the second to
42
166 OPHIDIA.
the sixth, which is the most developed ; the seventh is nearly as large
as the sixth, whilst the eighth is nearly equal to the fifth ; the fourth
and fifth constitute the inferior rim of the orbit. The lower labials
are ten in number, the first pair being narrow and elongated, inclosing
entirely a small and obtusely triangular symphyseal ; the second and
third are the smallest of the set; there is an increase in size hence to
the seventh, which is the largest ; the others diminish again poste-
riorly ; the tenth is quite reduced. We observe two pairs of mental
shields ; the anterior pair is broader and shorter than the posterior
pair, which diverges to admit the anterior abdominal scutella, leaving
no space between them for scale-like shields.
The neck is very slender, and quite distinct from the head. The
body is circular, and slender also, a little thicker upon its middle than
towards its extremities. The tail, which is subconical and tapering,
constitutes about the fifth of the entire length. The scales are lanceo-
lated, carinated, and slightly larger towards the abdomen than on the
middle of the back. The keels extend to the very tip of the scales,
which are disposed upon nineteen longitudinal series upon the middle
of the body, and seven or eight upon the base of the tail. The scales
upon the occipital region are irregular in shape, and smooth ; they
are small, and carinated near the origin of the tail. The abdominal
scutellae are very much developed transversely, in the direction of
their length ; they are also quite broad, slightly convex, one hundred
and thirty-four in number, the preanal being subdivided, and more
convex posteriorly than the others ; the anterior one is the broadest,
and anteriorly acute. The subcaudal scutellae are disposed upon a
double series, and about fifty in each.
The handsome brick-red color of the upper parts of the body, which
is observed during life, has given way to a purplish-grey, in specimens
preserved in spirits, and the pale-red of the abdomen to a dull reddish-
yellow. The extremities of the scutellae are colored like the back,
and provided moreover with a small black spot, constituting a series
on either side of the abdomen. The black dorsal vitta is now blackish-
brown, covering one entire row of scales and the half of the adjoining
two rows, and along the tail two half rows only ; anteriorly, where
the vitta widens into a club-shaped spot, forked upon its anterior edge,
there are but two series of scales on the sides of the neck, which are
not covered by it.
XENODON ANCORUS. 167
Loc. — The specimen described was obtained in the vicinity of Sin-
gapore.
XENODON ANCORUS, Grd.
CHAR. SPEC. — Scutis praeorbifalibus et postorbitalibus duobus. Squamis
laevibus in septendecim series longitudinales dispositis. Supra spadiceo,
cum maculis transversis per notaeum ordinatis, et in capite macula an-
cor iforme ; infra unicolori.
SPEC. CHAR. — Two anteorbital and two postorbital plates. Scales
smooth, disposed upon seventeen longitudinal series. Brownish-
red above, with transverse blotches along the back, and an anchor-
shaped spot upon the head. Beneath unicolor.
SVN. — Xenodon ancorus, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Xat. Sci. Philad. August, 1857, 182.
OBSERV. — This species is allied to X. purpurescem, from which it
differs by the presence of seventeen dorsal rows of scales instead of
nineteen, and by the pattern of coloration also.
DESCR. — The head is rather short, stoutish upon the occiput, sub-
conical forwards, and truncated in front ; it is declivous laterally and
posteriorly, passing gradually to the neck, which is nearly as thick
as the body. The rostral plate is large, subpyramidal, deeply emar-
ginated upon its base, and extending to the upper surface of the head.
The prefrontals are smaller than the postfrontals, all of which are sub-
angular in shape. The supraoculars are angular, narrower anteriorly
than posteriorly. The vertex plate is hexagonal and broad. The
occipitals are the largest of the cephalic plates. The nasal is well
developed, broader anteriorly than posteriorly, near which margin the
nostril is perforated. The loral is conspicuous, and angularly subellip-
tical. The inferior anteorbital is very small ; the upper one is angular,
equal in size and shape to the upper postorbital, whilst the lower post-
orbital is narrower and more elongated or elevated, resting upon the
sixth labial. The eye is of medium size, with a circular pupil. There
are three or four temporal shields, larger than the scales immediately
behind. The upper labials are eight in number, and much more deve-
TJFIVBRSIT7
168
0 P H I D I A.
loped posteriorly than anteriorly, the fourth and fifth entering into the
orbit ; the sixth and seventh are the largest of the series. There are
likewise eight inferior labials ; the first one meeting its fellow of the
opposite side, thus inclosing a small subtriangular symphyseal ; the
second is the smallest; the fifth the largest; the fourth and sixth being
nearly equal. Two pairs of mental shields, the anterior pair largest,
are separated from the abdominal scutellae by two pairs of large and
broad scales.
The body is subcylindrical, somewhat deeper than broad, convex
above, and flattened beneath. The dorsal scales are perfectly smooth,
and disposed upon seventeen longitudinal series, smallest and narrow-
est along the middle region of the back, and subrhomboid in shape,
whilst they are broad and subtrapezoid on the sides. The abdomi-
nal scutellae are one hundred and sixty in number, the preanal being
undivided, like the rest. The subcaudal scutellae are subdivided, dis-
posed upon a double series of forty-five in each. The tail is subconical,
tapering into an acute point, and forming nearly the sixth of the total
length of the specimen before us.
The ground color, as observed upon specimens preserved in alcohol,
is of a greyish or brownish-red. There are seventeen blotches of a
greyish hue, margined with black, and encircled with a white fillet,
extending along the dorsal region; they are transversely subelliptical,
broadest upon the medial line of the back, where they generally cover
five scales; laterally, they do not extend over the two outermost rows
of scales, whilst along the tail they reach the scutellae. A few isola-
ted, very small spqjts, exist along the sides on the intervals between
the blotches. An anchor-shaped blotch may be observed upon the
head and neck ; its curved branch is placed across the snout, passes
over the anterior portion of the orbit and eye, extending to the jaw,
whilst the main branch increases in width towards the neck, where it
bifurcates, sending off a branch to either side of the neck. An isolated
temporal vitta, of a deep-brown hue, may likewise be observed. The
inferior region is whitish, unicolor, the extremities of the scutellae
alone being dotted with red.
Loc. — A specimen of this species was collected at Manilla.
ERYTHROLAMPRUS VENUTISSIMUS. 169
ERYTHROLAMPRUS VENUTISSIMUS, Boie.
OBSERV. — We prefer referring our readers to the " Erpetologie gene-
rale," of Dumeril and Bibron, for the synonymic references to this
species, rather than transcribe them here from that work, since we
are acquainted with but one variety, the third, and hence not con-
vinced of its identity with the other varieties.
DESCR. — The head of the unique specimen of this species which we
have before us being in a very mutilated condition, we are not pre-
pared to describe either its shape or its structure ; it is even with
some difficulty that we have ascertained the genus to which it belongs.
The vertex plate, the supraoculars, and the frontals alone are discerni-
ble; the former is very broad, subpentagonal, being slightly concave
laterally, and rounded off posteriorly. The supraoculars are elon-
gated, and somewhat narrower anteriorly than posteriorly. The pre-
frontals are much smaller than the postfrontals.
The neck is a little smaller than the posterior part of the head.
The body increases slightly in thickness to the middle region, hence
diminishing gradually towards the origin of the tail. The latter,
which constitutes about the eighth of the total length, is subconical in
shape, tapering rapidly posteriorly.
The scales, which are large, are disposed upon fifteen longitudinal
series ; they are elongated, subrhomboid, and slightly tiled when the
skin is not overstretched. The skin itself is of a dull whitish hue.
Seven rows of scales may be observed upon the base of the tail, and
two only towards its extremity ; they are more truncated and conse-
quently shorter upon the latter region than on the body. The abdo-
minal scutellae are two hundred and one in number ; the preanal one
being subdivided. There are forty-eight pairs of subcaudal scutellae.
The vertex is black. There is an occipital black ring obsoletely
connected under the throat. Twelve more black rings are observed
encircling entirely the body, from the neck to the origin of the tail, and
covering three or four scales and abdominal scutellae ; the twelfth
ring is double, half of which belonging to the tail. The intervening
space between these rings embraces from twelve to fifteen scales,
which are tipped with black, the ground color being yellowish or
43
170 OP HID I A.
whitish, and generally much altered by a protracted immersion in
alcohol. Two double black rings may be observed upon the tail, the
tip of which is reddish. The abdomen, between the black rings, is
unicolor.
Loc. — Collected at Eio de Janeiro, Brazil.
GENUS CERBERUS, Cuv.
GEN. CHAR. — Cephalic plates small. Nostrils and eyes on the upper
surface of the head ; eyes rather small. Labials large and elevated,
though not entering into the orbit. Dorsal scales lanceolated and
carinated. Abdominal scutellae large; preanal one subdivided.
Subcaudal scutellae disposed upon a double series.
SYN.— Cerberus, Cuv. Regn. Anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 81.— BUM. & BIBE. Erpet. gen.
VII, n, 1854, 977.
OBSERV. — There is but one well-known species of this genus. Future
investigations may bring to light others, either so far unobserved, or
else not distinguished from the following one.
CERBERUS BOAEFORMIS, Dum. & Bibr.
(Plate VIII, figs. 8-11.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Color above deep grey or brown, with transverse black
bands or bars. A black vitta upon the sides of the head and neck.
Beneath yellowish, with black blotches.
SYN. — Elaps boaeformis, SCHN. Hist. Amph. II, 1801, 301.
Eurria schne.ideriana, BAUD. Hist. Nat. Rept. V, 1803, 281.
Python boaeformis, MERE. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 89.
Cerberus obtusatus, FITZ. Neue Class. Rept. 1826, 55.
C. cinereus, CANTOE, Proc. Zool. Soe. Lond. 1839, 54.
C. russelii, FITZ. Syst. Rept. I, 1843, 25.
C. boaeformis, DUM. & BIBR. Erp. gen. VII, n, 1854, 978.
Homalopsis schneiderii, SCHLEG. Ess. Phys. Serp. I, 1837, 171, & II, 1837, 341,
PI. xm, figs. 6 & 7.
H. rhynchops, CANTOE, Journ. Asiat. Soc. XVII, 1847, 94.
CERBERUS BOAEFORMIS.
OBSERV. — There are many more synonymes referred to this species
by systematic writers, and which we prefer leaving aside rather than
adopt without criticism.
DESCR. — The head is elongated, depressed, subquadrangular or sub-
conical, bluntly truncated anteriorly, thickest posteriorly, being slightly
swollen upon the temporal region. The cleft of the mouth ascends pos-
teriorly, almost at right angles with its horizontal extension, which is
nearly straight. The eyes are very small, circular, situated towards
the upper surface of the head, and directed obliquely outwards and for-
wards ; the pupil is subcircular ; the orbit is composed of five plates :
a supraocular, two anteorbitals, and two postorbitals. The supraocu-
lars are the largest plates observed on the upper surface of the head;
they are longer than broad, and of equal width throughout their length.
The superior anteorbital is larger than the inferior one, whilst the in-
ferior postorbital is larger than the superior one; both the inferior post-
and anteorbitals meet to form the inferior rim of the orbit, thus pre-
venting the labials from entering into it. There is a well-developed
loral extending obliquely from the fourth labial to the postnasal and
the frontals. The latter are four in number: two postfrontals and two
prefrontals, the postfrontals being the largest, and nearly equal in size
to the loral. A subquadrangular vertex plate, scarcely larger than
one of the postfrontals, may be observed posterior to the latter. The
nostril is small, situated between two plates on the upper surface of
the snout. The prenasal is much larger than the postnasal, and nearly
as large as either of the frontals, and situated altogether between the
rostral and the prefrontal.
The rostral is large, pentagonal, and slightly concave upon its base;
it is scarcely to be seen in an upper view of the head, its development
being altogether vertical, for the snout itself is thick. The upper
labials are nine or ten in number, increasing in size posteriorly ; the
anterior six, seven, or eight are quite narrow and elevated, whilst the
posterior two, three, or four are broader, and disposed upon a double
series ; the posterior pair is the smallest of all. The temporal and
occipital regions are covered with smooth scale-like shields. There
are ten lower labials, increasing in size from the first to the seventh or
eighth, and are likewise elevated and narrow ; the eighth, ninth, and
tenth are a little larger than the second, third, and fourth. The syru-
physeal has the shape of an acute triangle, and is entirely circum-
172 OPHIDIA.
scribed bv the first pair of labials, which are quite elongated, engaging
between the anterior pair of mental shields, exteriorly of which is an-
other narrow and long pair, and exteriorly and posteriorly of the latter
a third and small pair. The throat is covered with irregular scales.
The body is subcylindrical and stoutish, much the thickest upon its
middle. The tail is but moderately developed, subconical, and taper-
ing, forming about the sixth of the total length.
The dorsal scales are disposed upon twenty-three or twenty-five lon-
gitudinal series ; they are lanceolated and strongly carinated, except
the external row' on either side, which is smooth and considerably the
broadest. The keels do not extend quite to the tip of the scales;
the latter being rounded. Fourteen rows of scales may be observed
upon the base of the tail. The abdominal scutellae are well deve-
loped, one hundred and forty-three to one hundred and forty-seven in
number; the preanal one being subdivided. The subcaudal scutellae
are disposed upon a double series, from fifty-two to fifty-eight in each.
The ground color above is greyish-brown, with transverse undula-
ting black bars of the width of about one scale, leaving an interve-
ning space of about three scales. Black irregular lines are seen upon
the upper surface of the head. The snout and lips are spotted with
black. There is a fronto-nasal vitta in advance of the eye. A semi-
elliptic curve of black may be traced from the interocular region along
the temporal region, across the eye to the sides of the neck. The two
external rows of scales are generally unicolor, of a yellowish-white hue,
the same which extends to the abdominal region, but the row adjoining
the scutellae is occasionally covered by the black patches or maculae
which are spread all over the belly, the posterior part of which, as also
the subcaudal region, are nearly black.
The color of the back is occasionally of a uniform rusty color, with
but one series of black spots above the lateral yellowish stripe.
Loc. — Specimens of this species were caught on Ryan's Hill, near
Singapore, in 1841.
Plate VIII, fig. 8, represents Cerberus boaeformis, size of life.
Fig. 9, is a profile view of the head.
Fig. 10, an upper view ; and,
Fig. 11, an under view of the same region.
TACHYMEXIS CHILE N SIS. 173
GENUS TACHYMEXIS, WIEGM.
GEN. CHAR. — Body subcylindrical, of moderate length ; tail short, sub-
conical, tapering. Head colubrine, slightly detached from the body.
Cephalic plates normal. Eyes of medium size. One or two ante-
orbitals and two postorbitals. One loral. Two nasals, with nostril
between them. Jaws subequal. Dorsal scales smooth. Preanal
scutella divided. Subcaudal scutellae disposed upon a double series.
STN. — Tachymeni*, WIEGM. in Nov. Act. Xat. Cur. XVII, I, 1835, 251.— GKD. in
Gillfss, U. .S. X. Astr. Exped. to S. Hemisph. II, 1855, 213.
OBSERV. — The genus Tacliymeriis, so far, is composed of two species,
one from Peru, figured and described by Wiegmann in the work cited
above, and another from Chile, described below.
TACHYMEXIS CHILEXSIS, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Two anteorbital plates. Third and fourth labials con.
stituting the inferior rim of the orbit. Dorsal scales disposed upon
nineteen longitudinal series. Color olivaceous-brown above, with
four longitudinal bands of black, sometimes interrupted along the
dorsal region. Beneath yellowish, with the anterior margin of the
scutellae black.
STN.— Coronella chiknsis, SCHLEG. Ess. Phjs. Serp. I, 1837, 136, et II, 1837, 70.
— GUICH. in Gay, Hist, de Chile, II, 1848, 79, PI. iv, fig. 1.
Dipsas chilensis, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. VII, u, 1854, 1159.
Tuchymenis chilensis, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Xat. Sci. Philad. VII, 1854, 226; and
in Gillt'ts, U. S. Astr. Exp. to S. Hemisph. II, 1855, 213, PI. xxxvii, figs. 1-6.
DKSCR. — The head is subovoid, being depressed upon its upper sur-
face ; the snout is rounded, and the jaws subequal. The cleft of the
mouth ascends posteriorly. The eyes, subcircular in shape, are of but
moderate development, their diameter being equal to the width of the
vertex plate, upon the middle of its length. The vertex plate itself
is elongated, subpentagonal, diminishing gradually in width posteriorly,
where it is rounded off. The occipitals are about the length of the ver-
174 OP HID I A.
tex plate, though a little broader anteriorly. The postfrontals are
broader than long, extending somewhat to the sides of the head; they
are rounded posteriorly, and truncated anteriorly. The prefrontals,
smaller than the postfrontals, are subtriangular, irregularly rounded
off, not reaching the nostrils. The rostral has the form of a depressed
cone, concave beneath. The nostrils are rather small, situated at the
junction of two subquadrangular and subequal nasal plates, the commis-
sure of which is occasionally obliterated either above or below these
apertures. The loral is quadrangular, and larger than either of the
nasals. There are two subquadrangular anteorbitals, the uppermost
being broader than the lower one. The postorbitals, likewise two in
number, are nearly equal sized, but less regularly angular than the
anteorbitals. The temporal shields are scale-like, with the exception
of one or two, which are larger, elongated, and plate-like. The upper
labials are seven in number ; the third and fourth, narrow and ele-
vated, constituting the inferior rim of the orbit ; the fifth is the largest ;
the sixth is the next in size, then the fourth, the third, and the second ;
the seventh is a little larger than the first, which is the smallest of all.
The symphyseal is triangular, moderate sized, and inclosed between
the first pair of inferior labials. The latter, being nine in number,
diminish in size both forwards and backwards from the fifth, which is
the largest of all ; the seventh, eighth, and ninth are rather narrow
and elongated, whilst the anterior four are deeper than long. There
are two pairs of mental shields, the posterior pair being somewhat
smaller than the anterior.
The body is subcylindrical, thickest upon the middle of its length,
diminishing gradually posteriorly and anteriorly, where a somewhat
contracted neck separates it from the head. The tail is subconical,
posteriorly pointed, rather short, and constituting about the sixth part of
the entire length. The scales are smooth, disposed upon nineteen longi-
tudinal series; they are subrhomboid, elongated on the upper region,
and subtruncated laterally, largest upon the series adjoining the abdo-
minal scutellae ; they are smallest upon the nape and on the throat.
The abdominal region is of a moderate width. There are one hundred
and fifty-one abdominal scutellae, the preanal one being divided, and
forty-three pairs of subcaudal scutellae ; the latter being disposed upon
a double series.
The total length of the specimen described is nineteen and a half
inches ; the tail measuring three and one-eighth inches.
DOLIOPHIS. 175
Upon an olivaceous-brown ground, there are four longitudinal black
streaks or vittae (two dorsal and two lateral), which extend from the
head to the extremity of the tail. The dorsal streaks are the broadest,
beginning at the posterior extremity of the occipital plates, and cover-
ing each three series of scales, or two and a half only ; in the latter
case, one and two adjoining half scales bear the ground color ; other-
wise, there is but one scale between them. The lateral streak may be
traced from the posterior rim of the orbit along the fourth external
series of scales, leaving two scales, bearing the ground color, between
it and the dorsal streak. The anterior margin of all the scales is
jet-black, but, when in their natural and imbricated state, the black
does not appear externally ; sometimes, the scales embraced by the
dorsal streaks exhibit light margins, in which cases, those streaks will
appear like a series of spots. The upper surface of the head is dotted
with black. An occipito-temporal streak may be seen between the
origin of the two pairs just described. There is a subocular patch,
and several nasal ones. The abdominal region is yellowish, with the
anterior margin of the scutellae black.
Loc. — Collected on the heights, near the sea, Valparaiso, Chile.
GENUS DOLIOPHIS, GIRARD.
CHAR. GEN*. — Corpore subcylindrico, Jongissimo ; cauda modica. Oipite
dcpresso, nee a corpore discrete. Ore modico; dentibm venenatis in dua
paria dispositis. Scufis cepludicis nonmilibus; nasalibus du6bus,nnre
in * ut nra sita. Scuto loreo nullo ; praeorbitnli u/to. Labialibus quarto
et quinto in orbitam producti-s. Scutis postorbitalibus duobns. Sqtiamis
magnis, laevibiis, he-!' //*. in tredecim series lonyitudi nates dispositis.
ScnteUa praeaaali indivisa. Scutellis subcaudalibus in seriem dupli-
cem ordinatis.
GEN. CHAR. — Body subcylindrical, and very much elongated; tail
moderate. Head depressed, but continuous with the body. Mouth
moderate, provided anteriorly with two fangs on each side. Cepha-
lic plates normal. Two nasals, with nostrils between them. No
loral plate. One anteorbital. Third and fourth labials entering
into the orbit. Two postorbitals. Scales large, smooth, shining
jfg OPHIDIA.
disposed upon thirteen longitudinal series. Preanal scutella entire ;
subcaudal scutellae disposed upon a double series.
SYX.—DoUophis, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. August, 1857, 182.
OBSERV. — Colubrine in its general appearance, this genus resembles
Elaps more than any other of the family to which it belongs, the
system of coloration excepted, and which is rather of a uniform cast.
The generic diagnosis, as given above, may undergo some modifica-
tions at the accession of other species, for, so far, we know but the
one described below.
DoLiopms FLAVICEPS, Grd.
(Plate X, figs. 1-5.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Head yellow. Middle region of back bluish-black ; a
pale sky-blue band on each side. Tail yellow, with its upper medial
region bluish-black. Abdomen yellow, with a black band on each
side.
SYN. — Elaps ftaviceps, CANTOR, in Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond. VII, 1839, 33.
Doliophis flaviceps, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. August, 1857, 182.
DESCR. — The head is short, subelliptical, depressed, plane above,
and slightly declivous to the sides. The snout is subtruncated and
rounded. The nostrils are large, and situated between two plates.
The eyes, rather small, are circular; their diameter being comprised
nearly three times and a half across the interocular space. The cleft
of the mouth constitutes an open curve. The occipital plates are the
largest of the cephalic series. The vertex plate is six-sided, subcordi-
forra, posteriorly pointed, engaging between the occipitals. The su-
praoculars are rather longer than broad, and subangular. The post-
frontals are much larger than the prefrontals, subangular in shape,
and irregularly pentagonal; the prefrontals being subtriangular. The
rostral, broad upon its base, which is concave, is subconical, being
slightly visible in an upper view of the head. The prenasal is deeper
than long, and larger than the postnasal, which is semi-elliptical. There
is no loral plate. A large subtrapezoid anteorbital, extends from the
DOLIOPHIS FLAVICEPS. 177
postnasal to the anterior rim of the orbit. The postorbitals, two in num-
ber, are subangular, deeper than broad, the lower one being the largest,
and resting upon the commissure between the fourth and fifth labials.
Four temporal shields may be observed ; the anterior one quite large
and angular. There are six upper labials, of considerable development;
the first one is the smallest, triangular in shape, and situated immedi-
ately beneath the nostril ; the second, third, fourth, and fifth are deeper
than broad ; the second corresponding to the commissure between the
postnasal and the anteorbital ; the third is beneath the anteorbital,
forming a portion of the anterior rim of the orbit ; the fourth is imme-
diately beneath the pupil, forming the lower portion of the orbit; the
fifth is under the commissure between the postorbitals and anterior
temporal shield ; the sixth labial is longer than broad, and the largest
of the set. There are also six lower labials; the first pair is the deepest
and narrowest, inclosing the small triangular symphyseal ; the second
is the smallest, and the fourth the largest and most dilated inferiorly ;
the fifth is long and narrow ; the sixth, but slightly larger than the
second. There are two pairs of broad and short mental shields. The
region of the throat exhibits several plate-like shields.
The neck is but slightly distinct from the head. The body is very
long, subcylindrical, somewhat depressed, covered with smooth scales,
disposed upon thirteen longitudinal series. The latter are lanceolated,
and somewhat larger upon the series next to the abdominal scutellae.
The tail is rather short and subconical, provided with eight series of
scales upon its base, and four only towards its apex. The abdominal
scutellae are well developed, and slightly curved ; the preanal one
being subdivided. The subcaudal scutellae are disposed upon a double
row, except the anterior three, which are entire.
The abdominal scutellae are two hundred and sixty-seven in num-
ber ; the subcaudal scutellae thirty-nine. The entire length is four
feet and five inches ; the tail separately measuring five inches.
The upper region of the body and tail is uniform bluish-black, with
a greyish or pale sky-blue streak or band along the two external series
of scales. The extremities of the abdominal scutellae are black also,
thus forming a black band beneath the sky-blue streak. The head
and abdominal region are yellow. The tail is mostly yellowish also,
since the black extends only along two series of scales of the upper
region.
45
178 0 P H I D I A.
Loc. — A specimen of this species was collected at Singapore.
Plate X, fig. 1, represents Doliopliis flaviceps, size of life.
Fig. 2, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 3, an upper view ; and,
Fig. 4, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 5, exhibits the vent and adjoining scutellae.
PSEUDELAPS PSAMMOPHIS,. Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Body slender and elongated ; tail tapering into a point.
Scales smooth, disposed upon fifteen longitudinal series. Color blu-
ish or greenish ; unicolor above, and an obscure black band along
the middle of the abdomen. A transverse black fillet upon the
rostrum, and a black patch beneath the eye.
•
SYN. — Elaps psammopMs, SCHL. Ess. Phys. Serp. 1837, 455 ; &, Abbild. Aroph.
1837, 137, PI. XLVI, fig. 14.
Pseudelaps psammophidius, BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. VII, II, 1854, 1234.
DESCR. — The head is slender, subovoid in general appearance, and
passing gradually to the neck without any apparent contraction ; its
upper surface is flattened ; the frontal region sloping forwards, and,
since the sides are nearly vertical, it assumes an obscure subtetragonal
aspect. The snout is bluntly rounded, and protrudes slightly beyond
the lower jaw. The mouth is deeply cleft, and nearly rectilinear. The
eye and pupil are large and subcircular. The nostril is large, and placed
between two plates. The occipital plates are very large ; the vertex
plate is very much elongated, and sublanceolated in shape, being
slightly concave laterally". The postfrontal plates are much larger
than the prefrontals, extending somewhat to the sides; the prefrontals
are broader than long, subtriangular or polygonal in shape. The
rostral plate is pyramidal, extending somewhat to the upper surface of
the head, and very concave upon its base. The prenasal is a vertically
elevated plate, whilst the postnasal is horizontally elongated. There
is no loral plate. The postnasal is contiguous to the anteorbital, which
is well developed, subtrapezoid, oblique in position, and extending
PSEUDELAPS PSAMMOPHI8. 179
slightly to the upper surface of the head. There are two postorbitals ;
the inferior one being narrower, and vertically longer than the upper,
which is subquadrangular. Three or four temporal shields may be
observed ; the anterior two being the largest ; the inferior one engaging
between the fifth and sixth upper labials. The latter are six in num-
ber, all of which are well developed; the anterior two are the smallest;
the first being subtriangular ; the second pyramidal, with its summit
slightly engaging into the commissure between the anteorbital and the
postnasal; the third and fourth constitute the inferior rim of the orbit ;
the third being considerably elevated, and forming at the same time a
portion of the anterior rim ; the fifth and sixth are the largest of the
series. There are seven lower labial plates ; the first pair narrow
and lanceolated, inclosing the symphyseal, which has the shape of an
isoceles triangle ; the fourth is the most developed, and the seventh
the smallest of all. Two pairs of mental shields may be observed ;
the posterior pair being somewhat more slender and more elongated
than the anterior pair. Elongated scale-like shields may be observed
under the throat.
The body is slender, elongated, subcylindrical, thickest upon its
middle region, covered with perfectly smooth, imbricated, and lanceo-
lated scales, disposed upon fifteen longitudinal series. The scales
increase slightly in size from the dorsal region towards the sides ; they
are broad and subrhomboid in the row adjoining the abdominal scu-
tellae. The tail constitutes abou,t the fourth of the entire length,
which is twenty-five inches, six of which belonging to that organ ; it
is very slender and tapering, somewhat flattened beneath and convex
above. Seven rows of scales may be counted upon its base.
The abdominal scutellae are well developed, one hundred and eighty-
one in total number; the preanal one being subdivided. The sub-
caudal scutellae are all divided, and about eighty pairs in number.
The color is uniform bluish or greenish. The lower jaw, throat, and
neck are yellowish. A horizontal black line extends from one nostril
to the other, across the middle of the snout. A black spot, margined
with yellow, extends obliquely backwards from beneath the eye to the
margin of the jaw. The inferior postorbital and the inferior and inner
portion of the anteorbital are yellow. Beneath lighter, with an ob-
scure black band along the middle of the abdomen.
LOG. — A
specimen of this species was collected at Sydney, Australia.
OP HID I A.
GENUS PLATURUS, LATR.
GEN. CHAR. — Cephalic plates normal ; sometimes a middle postfrontal ;
nasal unique. No loral. One anteorbital ; two postorbitals ; third
and fourth labials entering into the orbit. Body subcylindrical,
deeper than broad, somewhat convex on the dorsal region. Abdo-
men flattened ; tail compressed. Dorsal scales smooth and imbri-
cated, disposed upon twenty-three longitudinal series. Abdominal
scutellae narrow and numerous ; preanal one divided. Subcaudal
scutellae disposed upon a double series. Coloration : black rings
upon a lighter ground.
SYN.— Platurus, LATR. Hist. nat. Kept. IV, 1801, 197.— BAUD. Hist. nat. Kept.
VII, 1802, 223.— WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 166.— DUM. & BIBB. Erp<§t.
gen. VII, n, 1854, 1318.
•
OBSERV. — The species of this genus are, strictly speaking, of marine
habits ; and although provided with poisonous fangs, they are inof-
fensive, and incapable of inflicting severe bites, owing to their small
size, which does not exceed a couple of feet. Those that follow are
the only ones we are so far acquainted with.
The note-book of the Expedition speaks of " the species seen on
Tonga Islands as quite common, and a truly marine animal. Seve-
ral were taken swimming alongside of the ship, and others on the
sea-beach. Whether venomous or not, they show no disposition
to bite, and are considered by the natives as perfectly harmless.
Moreover, we are told of their being regarded by them as ' sacred'
animals. Their motion in the water does not seem to be very rapid,
and are easily captured, indeed making no attempt to escape. They
appear less tenacious of life than reptiles usually are."
1. PLATURUS ' LATICAUDATDS, Wagl.
SPEC. CHAR. — Dorsal scales disposed upon nineteen longitudinal series.
Two rows of scales along the middle region of the side of the tail.
Body annulated with black ; intervening spaces narrower on the
PLATURUS LATICAUDATUS.
|
dorsal region than the rings, and broader upon the abdomen. Head
black, except the fron to-rostral region, which is yellow. Middle
region of throat yellow also.
SYN. — Coluber laticaudatus, LINN. Mus. Adolph. Fred. 1754, Tab. xvi, fig. 1. —
THUNB. Acad. Ups. 1787, 11.
Hydrus fasciatus, SCHN. Hist. Amph. I, 1799, 240.
Platurus fasciatus, BAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. VII, 1803, 226, PI. LXXXV.— MERR.
Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 142.— DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. VII, n, 1854, 1321.
Plulurus latican.da.tm, WAGL. Nat. Syst. Amph. 1830, 166.
OBSERV. — The synonyms not included either under this or the fol-
lowing species were intentionally left aside, preferring an omission to
an erroneous quotation.
DESCR. — The head is depressed, and but slightly broader than the
neck. The snout is blunt, rounded, and nearly even with the extre-
mity of the lower jaw. The vertex plate is subcordiform, broad, and
rounded anteriorly, pointed posteriorly. The occipitals, which are
well developed, are subtrapezoid, slightly rounded exteriorly, and
larger than the vertex plate itself. The supraoculars are short, and
irregularly rounded. The postfrontals are but very little larger than
the prefrontals, which are subtriangular. The nasal plate is elongated
and single, resting upon the first and second labials, and limited above
by the prefrontal; sometimes, also, reaching the edge of both the third
labial and poatfrontal : the nostril is situated posteriorly to the middle
of its length. A high and subquadrangular anteorbital may be observed
situated rather obliquely upon the third labial, limited superiorly by
the supraocular and the postfrontal. The eye, the pupil of which is
round, is not very large, and circular in shape. There are two well-de-
veloped subangular postorbitals; the lower one somewhat larger than
the upper, and situated above the commissure between the fourth and
fifth labials. The temporal shields, five or six in number, are a little
larger than the scales about the neck. The rostral plate is subpyra-
midal, with its summit contiguous to the prefrontals, thus isolating en-
tirely the nasals. There are seven upper labials; the third and fourth
are the largest, and constitute the inferior rim of the orbit ; the fourth
entering altogether into it, and the third only in part. The symphy-
seal is exceedingly small, with two small labials on either side ; the
remaining labials constitute two rows : an upper, in which they are
46
182
0 P H I D I A.
exiguous and elongated, and an inferior one, composed of the largest
of the series. There are two pairs of mental shields; the anterior pair
quadrangularly elongated, and the posterior pair spear-shaped ; both
contiguous upon their inner margin. The middle region of the throat
is occupied by three quite large scales.
The scales are smooth and shining, disposed upon nineteen longi-
tudinal series. They are well-developed, subrhornboid, and nearly
equal sized all around the body. There are two hundred and twenty-
eight, rather narrow but transversely well-developed, abdominal scu-
tellae; the posterior two being divided. The tail, which constitutes
the tenth or eleventh of the entire length, is quite thin, spatuliform,
and rounded upon its posterior margin. There are ten subdivided
subcaudal scutellae, properly so to be called, followed by twenty-four
others along the edge on either side. The upper edge exhibits a similar
series of transversely elongated scutellae. The intervening and middle
region is occupied by two longitudinal series of scale-like scutellae,
transversely dilated. The posterior edge of the tail is formed by one
single sharp plate.
The head is black, except the fronto-nasal region, from the rostral
plate to the anterior margin of the vertex plate, embracing entirely the
frontal plates, the portion of the nasal in advance of the nostril, the
upper half of the anteorbital, most of the supraocular, the external
angle of the occipital, the upper and part of the lower postorbital, and
one or two temporal shields, which are yellowish. A space along the
middle region of the throat, embracing half of the mental shields, to
the neck, is likewise yellowish. The latter area unites with a light
ring around the neck. The body is annulated with rings of a jet
shining black above, and brownish-black beneath, forty-one in number
from the occiput to the tip of the tail ; these rings are much broader
along the dorsal region than on the abdomen, where they cover from
two and a half to three and a half scutellae. The intervening space is
bluish above, and considerably narrower than the black rings them-
selves, whilst beneath they assume a yellowish-white hue, and nearly
equal to the rings in width. The tail is similarly annulated ; the
rings maintaining their width from the upper to the lower edge, the
black being wider than the yellow. The terminal edge is yellow.
LOG. — A specimen of this species is from the Feejee Islands.
PLATURUS COLUBRIXUS.
2. PLATURUS COLUBRINUS, Wagl.
SPEC. CHAR. — Dorsal scales disposed upon twenty-three longitudinal
series. Three rows of scales along the middle region of the side of
the tfiil. Body annulated with black ; intervening spaces equal
in width to the rings on the dorsal region, and much broader upon
the abdomen. Fronto-rostral and supraocular regions yellow. Upper
labials, part of lower labials, and middle region of the throat yellow
also.
SYN. — HyJrus colubrtnus, SCHX. Hist. Amph. I, 1799, 238.
Platurus colubrinu*, WAGL. Nat. Syst. Amph. 1830, 166.
7/y '//•'////</.< i:o!ulriniif, ScuL. in Faun. Japon. 1833, PI. x; & Ess. Phys. Serp. II,
1837, 514, PI. xviir, figs. 18-22.— DUVERX. in Cm: Eegn. Anim. Illustr. 1846, 130,
PI. xxxvi.
DESCK. — The general aspect of this species is very similar to the
preceding one, from which it is not regarded as distinct by several
writers. There are but minor differences to be noticed in the structure
of the cephalic plates : the vertex plate is larger and more elongated;
the postfrontals larger than the prefrontals, all of which being irregular
in their outline. An odd frontal may likewise be observed either upon
the line of contact of both pairs, or else extending to the vertex plate,
between the postfrontals. There are three lower labials in one series
upon each side of the symphyseal. The mental shields are nearly
equal sized, but, in the anterior pair, they are quadrangular, whilst the
posterior are tapering posteriorly. In either species, we observe nine
scales, in a longitudinal series between the mental shields and the first
abdominal scutella.
The scales are smaller than in P. laficaudatus, lozenge-shaped, and
disposed upon twenty-three longitudinal series, nearly uniform in size.
In both species, the body is convex above and flat beneath. There
are two hundred and thirty-two abdominal scutellae; the posterior two
being subdivided. The tail and subcaudal scutellae present the same
structure as in P. fatioatulattu, with this difference, that there are
three longitudinal series of scale-like scutellae along the lateral middle
region of that organ.
The fronto-nasal and the supraocular regions, and the edge of the
snout are yellow, thus leaving but a narrow black bar behind the eye,
OPHIDIA.
uniting with the occipital patch, which passes downwards behind the
angle of the mouth, hence extending forwards along the lower jaw, and
backwards to the adjacent black patch, which does not form a complete
ring around the neck. There are from thirty-two to thirty-three jet
black rings, from the occiput to the tip of the tail, to which four of
these rings belong. Along the dorsal region they are equal in width
to the intervening spaces, whilst along the sides, the latter widen at
the same time as the rings become narrower, and along the abdomen,
for every two black scutellae there are five intervening white ones.
On the lower half of the sides and the abdomen, the spaces between
the black rings are yellowish or whitish. On the dorsal region, tbe
tip of each scale is yellowish, whilst its base is dark greyish. The
posterior margin of the tail is yellow.
LOG. — Specimens were collected at the Feejee and Tonga Islands,
where they are said to be " very common."
GENUS PELAMYS, DAUD.
GEN. CHAR. — -Two pairs of frontal plates. No nasals. Nostril in the
prefrontal. No loral. One anteorbital; two postorbitals ; one infra-
orbital ; labials not entering into the orbit. Gape of mouth ascend-
ing posteriorly. Body compressed, much deeper than broad. Back
thickish, convex. Abdomen narrow. Tail very much compressed.
Scales small, smooth, hexagonal, pavement-like, subequal. Abdo-
men and tail covered with scales like those of the back : hence
neither abdominal nor subcaudal scutellae. Colors : uniform ; tail
occasionally blotched.
SYN.— Pelamys, DAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. VII, 1802, 357.— WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph.
1830, 166.— GRAY, Catal. Snakes Brit. Mus. 1849, 41.— DUM. & BIBK. Erp6t. gen.
VII, n, 1854, 1333.
Thalassophis, SCHMIDT, Abhandl. Naturw. Ver. Hamb. II, 1852.
OBSERV. — Here is another genus of marine snakes, including so far
the single species whose description follows. Like those of the pre-
ceding genus, it never reaches to any size that could for a moment
give origin to the mythic stories about such a " sea serpent" as we hear
PELAMYS BICOLOR. 185
now and then spoken of in the periodical literature. Comparatively
small and inoffensive, though likewise possessed with poisonous fangs,
it might however bite with more severity, having a larger mouth and
stronger jaws. In its external aspect, it is more eel-like than the
species of Phi.turus, which, were it not for their compressed tail, would
otherwise bear the physiognomy of the terrestrial tribe of Elapsidae.
PELAMYS BICOLOR, Daud.
SPEC. CHAR. — Body very much compressed; tail very thin, and obtuse
posteriorly. Above uniform black ; beneath uniform yellow or white.
Black patches upon the tail.
SYX.— Anyuis platuros, GM. Linn. Syst. Nat. Ed. xiii», III, i, 1788, 1122.
Hy.lrus bicolor, SCHN. Hist. Ampb, I, 1799, 242.— SHAW, Gen. Zool. Ill, 1802, PI.
cxxv & cxxvi.
Ili/drophis platnra, LATH. Hist. nat. Kept. IV, 1801, 197.
I'.lamys bicolor (Pelamide bicolore), DAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. VII, 1802,366, PL
LXXXIX — Ccv. Kegn. Anim. Illustr. 1846, 134, PL xxxvi bis, fig. 1. — GRAY, Catal.
Snakes Brit. Mas. 1849, 41.— BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. VII, n, 1854, 1335.
Ilydrophis pelamys, SCHL. Phys. Serp. II, 1837, 508, PL xvni, figs. 13, 14, & 15.
Hydrus, CANTOR, Catal. of Snakes Malay. Penins. 1847, 135.
Tliulatfnphis scMeijelii, SCHMIDT, Abhandl. Naturw. Ver. Hamb. II, 1852, Tab. V.
Xnlla WaMagillee pam, RUSSELL, Ind. Serp. I, 1796, PL XLI.
Schiddil, ibid. II, 1796, PL xn.
DESCR. — The head is very much depressed, anteriorly narrow, and
considerably swollen at the occipital region. The gape of the mouth
i* very deep, ascending obliquely upwards posteriorly. The occipital
plates are the largest of the cephalic series; they are much longer than
broad, and more or less polygonal. The vertex plate is subhexagonal,
obtuse-angled anteriorly, with the sides nearly parallel, until it termi-
nates into an acute triangle. The supraoculars are well-developed,
nearly as broad as the vertex plate, but not quite as long. The post-
frontals are irregularly quadrangular, and smaller than the prefrontals,
which are elongated, tapering anteriorly bearing the nostrils upon the
middle of their posterior portion ; the nasals are, therefore, absent,
and the nostrils, by this arrangement, belong entirely to the upper
surface of the head. The rostral is pentagonal and depressed. The
fir.st and second upper labials extend over the space which elsewhere
is occupied by the nasal and loral plates. There is one anteorbital,
47
OPHIDIA.
somewhat spear-shaped, with the base towards the eye, and contiguous
anteriorly to the postfrontal, second and third upper labials. An infe-
rior orbital, subcrescentic in shape and concave upwards, constitutes
the inferior rim of the orbit. It is contiguous above to the ante-
orbital, in front with the third labial, beneath with the fourth and fifth
labials, and posteriorly with the lower postorbital and a temporal
shield. Two postorbitals, nearly equal sized, complete the orbit pos-
teriorly; sometimes, three postorbitals may be observed, in which case,
the third is a mere subdivision of the inferior orbital. Both the tem-
poral and occipital regions are covered with comparatively large, poly-
gonal, scale-like shields or plates. The upper labials are eight in num-
ber ; the second is conspicuously the largest, and the first nearly equal
to the third ; the fourth, fifth, and sixth, are smaller still ; the seventh
and eighth, the smallest of the series, occupy the upper and oblique
branch of the gape of the mouth. The lower labials may be num-
bered twelve ; the posterior four are scale-like, occupying the oblique
ascending branch of the gape of the mouth ; the sixth, seventh, and
eighth, are quite inconspicuous and small ; the first, fourth, and fifth,
are the largest ; the second and third being somewhat smaller. The
labials of the first pair are contiguous posteriorly, inclosing a very
small symphyseal. There is only one pair of well-developed, irregu-
larly rounded, mental shields ; the remaining portion of the inferior
surface of the head being covered with elongated scales, somewhat
larger than the scales of the body.
The body is stoutest upon its middle region ; it is compressed, rather
rounded upon the anterior third of the dorsal region, whilst it is thin-
ning off posteriorly and beneath, so as to present a rather conspicuous
dorsal ridge, and a sharp belly. The scales, which extend to the abdo- .
men, as well as to the back and sides, and thus suppressing entirely
the abdominal scutellae, — are very uniform in size, small, subhexago-
nal, and smooth, mayhap a little larger above and beneath than on
the middle of the sides. They constitute longitudinal series : sixty-
two in number across the line of greatest depth of the body, and fifty-
four around the neck. Four pairs of small plates may be observed
about the preanal region. The tail is small, forming the eighth or
ninth of the entire length, very much compressed, very thin and ob-
tuse posteriorly. The scales upon the latter region are larger than on
the body, but do not constitute longitudinal series.
The upper surface of head, and the dorsal region to the middle of
CBOTALUS LUCIFER. 187
the flanks is uniform black ; from the middle of the flanks downwards,
the general hue is uniform yellow. The tail is straw-colored, spotted
with black. A series of these spots, saddle-like, may be traced all
along the upper edge of that organ, and a similar series also along the
inferior edge, whilst the middle region exhibits several rounded ones,
constitutiug another series.
Loc. — A specimen of this species was collected at Pomotu, or Society
Islands.
GENUS CROTALUS, LINN.
GEN. CHAR. — Upper surface of the head covered with small, scale-like
plates, the anterior ones largest. Temporal shields and labial plates
small and convex. A deep pit between the eye and the nostril.
Dorsal scales keeled. Preanal and subcaudal scutellae entire. Tail
terminated by a well-developed rattle.
SYN.— Crotalus, LINN. Syst. Nat.-I, 1766, 370.— GRAY, Catal. Snakes Brit. Mas.
1849, 19.— B. & G. Catal. N. Amer. Bept. I, 1853, i.— BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gdn. VII,
H, 1854, 1453.
OBSERV. — The rattlesnakes, it is well known, are provided with one,
two, or more hollow fangs on either side of the roof of the mouth, and
in communication with a poison-bag lodged within the thickness of the
bone itself.
CROTALUS LUCIFER, B. & G.
(Plate XV, figs. 1-6.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Squamis dorsualibus in quinque et viginti series longitu-
dinales dispositis ; extrema laevi, secunda et tertia obsolete carinatis.
Cauda et posteriore corporis parte sexdecim vel septendecim n'ujris
semi-annulis fasciatis. Series sexangularum vel octangularum fus-
carum macularum, angustd et pallidd lined circumdatarum, in dorso
est sita. Fasciola dam ex supraoculari scuto transit per oris angu-
lum, insuper tertiam et quartam squamarum svpralabialium seriem.
]_gg OPHIDIA.
SPEC. CHAR. — Dorsal rows of scales, twenty-five ; exterior one smooth ;
second and third, obsoletely carinated. Tail, and posterior portion
of body, with sixteen or seventeen black half-rings. A series of
brown dorsal hexagons or octogons, separated throughout by a nar-
row light line. A light stripe from the supraocular crosses the
angle of the mouth on the third and fourth series of supralabials.
.— Orotalug luci/er, B. & G. in Proc. Aead. Nat. Sc. Philad. VI, 1852, 177.—
B. & G. Catal. of N. Amer. Kept. I, 1853, 6.
DESCR. — The head is very broad anteriorly, its outline being but
slightly tapering forwards in an upper view. Its upper surface is
covered with many small and tuberculiform scales, exhibiting a sub-
stellated aspect. The interval between the supraocular plates is filled
with small scales, nearly equal sized, except upon the row adjoin-
ing these plates, in which they are very small. The scales upon the
frontal region, in advance of the supraoculars, are variable in number,
size, and shape ; in one specimen, there are two rows of four each, of
considerable size ; in another, they are fewer, larger, and more irregu-
lar. The rostra] plate is high, subconical, or subpentagonal. The pre-
nasal is subangular, larger than the postnasal, in the anterior edge of
which the nostril opens. The prenasal is contiguous to the rostral
and anterior upper labial. The eye is proportionally small, and pro-
tected superiorly by a large and oblong plate, the supraocular, the
edge of which is slightly thickened. Immediately in advance of the
eye, there is an elongated subquadrangular loral (or anteorbital), sepa-
rated anteriorly from the postnasal by two small scale-like plates.
Beneath it we observe a smaller and subtriangular plate, limiting the
upper edge of the facial pit, the lower edge of which pit is bordered by
very small plates. The temporal shields are large, flat, and smooth.
There are fourteen upper labial plates on either side, resembling in
shape and structure the temporal shields. The lower labials are six-
teen in number on either side, also ; the posterior twelve are slightly
higher than long, contrasting somewhat with the scales immediately
beneath. The symphyseal is triangular and conspicuous; the adjoin-
ing first labial is the most elongated of all, and meets its fellow under
the chin, thus completely inclosing the symphyseal. The second,
third, and fourth labials are larger than the rest. There is but one
pair of mental shields, very large, and suboblong. The scales on the
throat are elongated, subelliptical, and smooth.
CROTALUS LUCIFER. . 189
The dorsal scales are disposed upon twenty-five longitudinal series,
narrowest on the back, tapering and rounded posteriorly, provided
with a strong keel. Towards the sides the scales slightly increase
in size, whilst their keel becomes obsolete till it almost entirely disap-
pears upon the external two series, which are, at the same time, the
broadest. The abdominal scutellae are rather narrow, about one hun-
dred and sixty-six in number. The preanal one is entire, as well as
the subcaudal scutellae, which number from twenty to twenty-five.
The rattle is composed of six rings and a half.
The total length of the largest specimen described is twenty-seven
and three-fourths inches, of which three and three-fourths inches
belong to the tail.
The ground color is light above. Along the back there is a series
of subhexagonal or octogonal blotches, formed by a skeleton of a dull
yellow, constituting a dorsal chain. The space of the ground color
thus inclosed is faintly margined with dark brown ; the width of the
interval between the successive blotches is from one half to one and a
half scales. These spots are frequently confluent, two and three run-
ning together. Where most distinct, the spots are four scales long and
eleven wide. On each side of this dorsal series is a second, separated
by a single row of scales ; the blotches extending from the abdominal
scutellae to the fifth or sixth row. These are smaller than the dorsal
and subcircular. Opposite the transverse light bands, and in the open
space between four contiguous blotches on the sides, smaller blotches
may be indistinctly observed. Posteriorly, the spots on the back
and sides are confluent and darker ; in one specimen forming seven-
teen half-rings, encircling the upper region, leaving about twenty-four
dorsal blotches. The abdomen is greenish-yellow, more or less clouded
with brown at the bases of the scales. The head is dark brown ; a
light line extends from the posterior portion of the supraoculars along
the fourth row of supralabial scales to the angle of the mouth. The
same light color is observed upon the upper labials, and whole front
and side, leaving only the top of the head dark. The space about the
facial pit is darker.
The theory of coloration is that of decussating lines, which, when
they intersect, unite so as to have the angles of intersection truncated.
The species has a general resemblance to G. atrox in the arrangement
of the blotches, but it is darker, and has about seventeen dark half-rings
posteriorly, instead of four or five. In C. atrox the head is narrower
48
OPHIDIA.
and more triangular; the space between the supraciliaries narrow, and
occupied by large angular scales, instead of small tuberculous ones.
In C. atrox, the row bordering the supraciliaries is much larger than
the rest, and the scales on the top of the head generally more angu-
lar. In C. lucifer, the line on the side of the head, instead of going
directly from the posterior end of the supraciliary to the commissures,
passes backwards nearly parallel to the mouth, crossing along the
fourth row of supralabial plates. The second line in front of the eye
is much wider below in C. lucifer, and the face generally shows more
of white, while the dark portions are much darker.
Loc. — This species inhabits the western coast of the United States;
specimens having been collected both in California and Oregon.
Plate XV, fig. 1, represents Crotalus lucifer, size of life.
Fig. 2, is a side view of the head.
Fig. 3, an upper view ; and,
Fig. 4, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 5, is a front view of the head.
Fig. 6, exhibits the dorsal scales.
S A U R I A.
1856 & 1857.
ORDO III. SAURIA.
THE order of Saurians is composed of reptiles more diversified in
their external appearance than that of the Ophidians, which we have
just passed in review; even more diversified than the Batrachians,
which were introduced at the head of this report.
In all the Saurians the body is generally elongated and rounded, to
a few exceptions; its surface is covered with scales or modifications of
scales, which are subjected to a great diversity of forms and aspects,
from true imbricated scales down to minute granules. The eye is
provided, in the majority of cases, with distinct eyelids. The auricular
aperture, likewise, is visible externally in most of them, so as to ex-
pose the tympanum or drum. The mouth is not dilatable, as in the
Ophidians ; the jaws being toothed, and the palate occasionally also,
though we never observe any fangs or venom in the whole order of
Saurians. Some of them are, however, considered as highly venemous,
and hence dangerous, by the natives of various regions of the globe :
a prejudice which is difficult to eradicate from their mind. Indeed,
such saurians as are truly dangerous to men, become such by their
large size and strength, and those who are familiar with the alligators
and crocodiles will readily understand our meaning. The limbs are
generally four in number ; sometimes two only being observed, some-
times in a rudimentary state, so as to be hidden under the skin, ap-
pearing completely deprived of them. The tail is elongated, tapering,
seldom prehensile, covered with scales mostly disposed upon' verticils ;
the cloaca, situated at the base of that organ is generally transverse.
Upon the skeleton we observe distinct and moveable ribs, also a
sternum, which Ophidians have not. The external envelope of the
eggs consists in a tough or hard membrane ; the young undergoing no
metamorphosis.
49
194 SAURIA.
FAM. VARANIDAE.
Some of the species of this family attain a considerable size, being,
next to the crocodiles, the largest of the order of Saurians.
The general aspect of their body is elongated, rounded, and without
dorsal crest. The legs, four in number, are stoutish ; the toes being
compressed or rounded, five in number, unequal, variable in length
according to the genera, and terminated by nails generally powerful.
The tail is somewhat compressed, hardly ever perfectly round, and
much longer than the body and head together ; oftentimes, provided
above with a keel formed by a double series of elevated scales.
The head is separated from the body by a quite distinct neck. It
is covered above with small polygonal plates, flattened, if not entirely
smooth. The tongue is fleshy, elongated, slender, flattened upon its
base, deeply bifurcated anteriorly; the points diverging, and the whole
retractile into a sheath pretty much in the same manner as in the
serpents. The palate is always toothless. The maxillary teeth, the root
of which is flattened, are disposed upon one single row, and inserted
upon the inside of the jaws in a kind of groove, wanting of its inner
edge, and constituting, as it were, a common socket or alveola for all
the teeth belonging to one jawbone. The crown of these teeth is gene-
rally pointed or conical, and inclined backwards.
The scales are placed side by side, unimbricated. On the back and
sides they are subtuberculous or rounded ; the centre being more ele-
vated than the disk, each of which being occasionally surrounded by
an annular series of small granules of great regularity and elegance.
They are disposed upon transverse or cross series, and sometimes upon
longitudinal series also. Beneath, we observe smooth and regular small
plates variously disposed according to the regions. There are no femo-
ral pores. On the tail, the scales are arranged in transverse or annular
series, preserving the same general character as those of the back and
belly, being a good deal larger and plate-like upon its inferior surface.
The food of the ordinary varanids consists in large insects; the more
bulky species attacking likewise the small quadrupeds, the birds, rep-
tiles of other families, and fishes.
There are, in this family, species which inhabit sandy and barren
districts away from the water, and others that frequent the margin of
HYDROSATTRUS. 195
rivers and lakes, leading a subaquatic life. It is a generally received
opinion, that they keep pretty much on the surface of the ground,
seldom, if ever, venturing to climb on trees or rocks. In the journal
kept on board the squadron by the naturalists of the Expedition, we
find the following observation on the habits of an Australian species,
which will be read with interest: "This large reptile (three to four feet
in length), appears to be by no means rare. One seen at Pewen Be wen,
by Mr. Dana and myself, immediately mounted a tree rather leisurely
and with measured pace, and ascended to one of the topmost branches,
where it fixed itself, without regarding any further attempt to dislodge
it, and, indeed, from the height and scarcity of suitable missiles, it was
more secure than would appear at first. This, we were informed, is its
usual custom." [Pickering.]
SYX. — Varanidae, BOXAP. Saggio, Distr. Anirn. Vertebr. 1831.
V>ir<nn'eiis, BUM. & BIER. Erpet. gen. Ill, 1836, 437- — DUM. & A. DUM. Catal.
meth. Kept. Mus. d'hist. nat. 1851, 49.
Moniloridae, G&A.Y, Ann. Nat. Hist. I, 1838 ; & Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 6.
Most of the living representatives of this family inhabit the Old
World, with the exception of the heloderms, which are Americans.
Many species, some of huge dimensions, have left their remains in the
solid strata of the globe in both hemispheres.
GEXUS HYDROSAURUS, WAOL.
GEX. CHAR. — Body covered with small scales. Head elongated, sub-
pyramidal. Teeth compressed, sharp-edged, denticulated. Nostrils
oblong, longitudinal, near the apex of the muzzle. Tail very long,
provided above with a double-edged keel. Toes unequal, elongated,
and compressed.
SYX.—Bi/drosaurus, WAGL. Naturl. Syut. Amph. 1830, 164.— GRAY, Catal. Lizz.
Brit. Mus. 1845, 6 & 12.
OBSERV. — Wagler was led into error as to the disposition of the
dorsal scales, which are placed side by side, surrounded with small
granules, instead of being imbricated and deprived of these same
196
S A U R I A.
granules : an error which Dumeril & Bibron, " Erpe"tologie generate,
III, 1836, 493," have already pointed out.
HYDROSAURUS VARIUS, Gray.
SPEC. CHAR. — Supraocular plates small, equal. Dorsal scales very
small. Tail longer than the body and head together, tapering into
a point. A fold under the throat. Color variable, variegated with
black and yellow. Neck with lunate black bands. Inferior surface
of head and throat transversely banded with black.
SYN.— Lacerta varia, SHAW, in White's Journ. Voy. N. S. Wales, 1790, 246, PI. ill,
fig. 2; Nat. Misc. Ill, 1792, 83; &, Gen. Zool. Ill, 1802, 215.
Tupinambis variegatus, BAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. Ill, 1803, 76. — KUIIL, Act. Acad.
Nat. Cur. XI, 1820, 125.
Varanus varius, MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 58. — GRAY, in King's Voy. to
Austr. II, 1827, 427.— DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. Ill, 1836, 491.— DUM. & A. DUM.
Catal. meth. Kept. Mus. d'Hist. nat. 1851, 51.
Hydrosaurus variegatus, WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Ainph. 1830, 164.
Hydrosaurus varius, GRAY, Ann. Nat. Hist. I, 1838, 394 ; &, Catal. Lizz. Brit.
Mus. 1845, 12.
Monitor varius, GRAY, Synops. Kept, in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 25.
OBSERV. — This species has been tolerably well described by the
authors just quoted, so that we might almost limit ourselves to al-
luding to the coloration of the specimen, a prepared skin, which lies
before us, since it is apt to vary within considerable limits.
DESCR. — The length of the body and head together is about two
feet ; the tail is still longer. The head is subquadrangular or sub-
pyramidal, elongated, and of rather slender appearance. The neck
and body are subcylindrical. The tail itself is subcircular upon its
base, and, for a short distance, keelless. The double-edged keel, how-
ever, gradually makes its appearance, and may be followed down to its
Very tip, which is pointed, the organ, at first somewhat compressed,
where the carination began, having gradually tapered away, to assume
almost a triangular shape, upon the latter third or fourth of its length.
The scales are disposed upon transverse series ; they are smaller
upon the back and sides than upon the abdomen, and larger along the
tail than on the body, the same disproportions being observed between
LACERTIDAE. 197
those of the upper and inferior surfaces. Along the upper surface of
the neck they are larger than on the back and tail, whilst they are a
good deal smaller on the sides and inferior surface of the same region
than on the sides of the body and on the abdomen. The scales are
quite small upon the pectoral fold.
The black and yellow are the only two colors observed. Upon
the upper surface and sides of the head the black predominates as
ground color, over which are six interrupted and transverse yellow
bars : two across the fronto-nasal region, two upon the interocular
space, and two on the occiput. Upon the neck and shoulders the
yellow appears as ground color, and the black constitutes narrow,
black, and lunate bands, convex backwards, stretching obliquely for-
wards and downwards on the sides. The intervening space between
these black bands i* spotted with black, and along the middle region
of the neck the black spots occupy as much ground as the yellow itself.
The upper surface of the body and limbs is black, with semi-annular
bands of yellow spots and dots. Beneath, the predominating hue is the
yellow. Six or seven jet black transverse bands may be observed from
the extremity of the lower jaw to the pectoral fold, and two narrower,
though longer ones, across the chest. Along the abdomen they are
proportionally more numerous and less regular, though nearly equal
to the yellow intervals, and under the legs they are undulated or
waving, and narrower compared to the yellow intervals. The yellow
intervals under the abdomen are spotted with black, and the black
bands spotted with yellow. The tail is similarly annulated and
spotted.
Loc. — Near Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
FAM. LACERTIDAE.
According to recent writers on herpetology, the Saurian family here
referred to may be characterized by a quite elongated and rounded,
neither depressed nor compressed, body; the tail being especially elon-
gated, reaching, in some species, a length four times that of the body
itself. Four strongly developed limbs, provided with four or five fingers
and five toes, rounded, or slightly compressed, slender, conical, unequal,
so
'198 SAURIA.
all terminated by curved nails. The head, which has the shape of a
quadrangular pyramid, is flattened, tapering forwards, covered with
horny, polygonal, and symmetrical plates. The tympanum is visible,
and placed either evenly with the surface of the head, else slightly
within the edge of the auricular aperture. The eyes, in most instances,
are provided with three movable lids. The mouth is deeply cleft,
with the labial plates and inframaxillary shields considerably deve-
loped. The teeth are unequal in size and shape, inserted upon the
inner edge of a common groove, situated along the exposed portion of
the maxillary bones, the palatine teeth being either wanting or pre-
sent, and, in the latter case, varying in position. The tongue is free,
fleshy, flattened, thin, more or less protractile ; its base being occasion-
ally surrounded by a sheath; its surface covered with scale-like,
rounded, or angular papillae ; its extremity always emarginated or
bifurcated, subdivided into two equal parts. The tail is conical, very
long, generally rounded upon its whole extent, and protected by ver-
ticillated scales. The skin is covered with scales varying in size,
granular or rhomboid, and keeled on the dorsal region, which is never
crested. The neck exhibits, in most instances, one or several cross-
folds, covered with tubercles, granulations, or large scales, varying in
shape, constituting a kind of necklace. The abdomen is protected
with scutellae, always larger than the dorsal scales ; they are either
rectangular or rounded. In most cases, pores may be observed along
the thighs or upon the interfemoral region.
SYN. — Lacertiens, Ccv. Rdgn. Anim. II, 1817. — DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. V, 1839, 1.
Lacertae, WIEGM. Herp. Mfex. I, 1834, 9.
Lacertidae, BONAP. Saggio, Distr. Anim. Verteb. 1831.
Autosaures, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. V, 1839, 1.
It has been observed that in some Lacertians the root of the teeth is
hollow, whilst in others the teeth are compact throughout. This fact
has led some authors to consider each of these groups as constituting
a separate family, whilst others have looked upon them as indicating
a subdivision of a rather minor degree.
Of each of these two subdivisions, the collection made by the Ex-
ploring Expedition contains but one species, which we will introduce
1 to the reader under their special headings.
LACERTA. 199
SUBFAM. COELODONTES.
The teeth are hollow, especially at their base and root, hence easily
detached from the jaws. All the genera of this group belong to the
Eastern World, Australasia included.
SYN. — Coelodontes, BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. V, 1839, 17 & 153.
Lacertinidae, GRAY, Ann. Nat. Hist. I, 1838, 279; &, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus.
1845, 26.
OBSERV. — The " Autosaures coelodontes" are furthermore subdivided
into " Pristidactyles," which have carinated and serrated fingers ; and
into " Leiodactyles," whose fingers and toes are smooth. The species
recorded further on belongs to the latter subdivision.
GENUS LACERTA, Lixx.
GEX. CHAR. — Tongue not sheathed at the base, moderately elongated,
bifid at the extremity, covered with imbricated, scale-like papillae.
Palate either toothless or provided with teeth. Premaxillary teeth
conical ; maxillary teeth somewhat compressed and straight ; the
anterior ones simple ; the following obtusely tricuspid. Lower eye-
lid opaque, covered with scales. Nostrils lateral, in the lower hinder
angle of a prenasal, with two small superposed postnasals. Tympa-
num situated below the surface of the auricular aperture. Temple
with polygonal, unequal, small plates. A narrow cross-fold under
the ear, and a necklace of scales. Dorsal scales ovate, granular, thick,
convex, not imbricated. Abdominal scutellae square ; the two central
series narrower. Preanal shield single, surrounded by smaller ones.
Femoral pores present. Anterior limbs provided with five slightly
compressed fingers. Tail conical or cyclotetragonal.
SYN.— Lacerta, LINN. Syst. Nat, ed. VI, 1748.— MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820,
62.— WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 154.— WIEGM. Herp. Mex. I, 1834, 9.— DUM.
& BIBR. Erpet. gen. V, 1839, 174.— GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 30.
OBSERV. — We think the genus Lacerta ought to be restricted within
narrower limits than those ascribed to it by Dumeril and Bibron, with-
•^
>>- OV IBS
foiriVBRSITT]
200
S A U R I A.
out seeing, however, the necessity of subdividing it according to the
method of John Edward Gray, for we perceive no material difference
between his diagnoses of Lacerta and Teira, except in the number of
the rows of abdominal scutellae, which, so far, is but a relative and
not an absolute character. As to the palatine teeth, we are not in-
formed as to whether their presence or absence can be of any assist-
ance in the classification of the present group.
LACERTA MADERENSIS, Fitz.
(Plate XXIV, figs. 1-8.)
SPEC. CHAR. — No palatine teeth. Abdominal scutellae six-rowed.
Necklace composed of eleven or thirteen smooth scales, with even
edge. Temporal scales smooth. Caudal scales obscurely keeled
anteriorly, more conspicuously so posteriorly. About twenty pores
under each thigh, constituting a very close series, interrupted upon
the interfemoral region.
SYN. — Lacerta maderensis, FITZ. Neue Glass. Kept. 1826, 51.
Lacerta duyesii, MILN. EDW. Ann. Sc. Nat. XVI, 1829, 84, PI. vr, fig. 2.— DOM. &
BIBR. Erpet. gen. V, 1839, 236.
Teira punctata, GRAY, Ann. Nat. Hist. I, 1838, 286 ; &, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus.
1845, 33.
OBSERV. — We have a complete series of specimens of various ages
before us, all agreeing well in their structure. The color is liable to
some variations, the extremes of which are observed in the very young
and the old ; it is more or less faded in the specimens preserved in alco-
hol. Judging of it from a colored sketch made from life in September,
1838, the middle region of the back is dark greenish-brown, densely
spotted with black. A narrow reddish-brown vitta separates the dorsal
from the lateral region, which is very dark, almost black, speckled with
white. The upper surface of the head, limbs, and tail is olivaceous-
brown, also spotted with black, and speckled with white. The infe-
rior regions are of a uniform greenish hue, with occasional black dots
under the chin and thighs.
Loc. — Island of Madeira, where it is reported to be common.
T E I U S. 201
Plate XXIV, fig. 1, represents Lacerta inaderensis, size of life.
Pig. 2, is a view of the upper surface of the head ;
Fig. 3, a profile of the same ; and,
Fig. 4, a view from beneath.
Fig. 5, exhibits the left hand from above ;
Fig. 6, the same hand from beneath.
Fig. 7, is a group of dorsal scales.
Fig. 8, is intended to show the abdominal scutellae.
Figs. 2-8 are somewhat magnified.
SUBFAM. PLEODONTES.
The teeth are compact throughout, and firmly adhering to the jaw
bones. All the representatives of this group belong to the New, or
Western World.
SYX.— P/eWonfes, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. V, 1839, 16 & 40.
Teidae, GRAY, Ann. Nat. Hist. I, 1838, 276 ; &, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 14.
OBSERV. — The " Autosaures pleodontes," subdivided into " Compres-
sicaudes," which have a compressed tail, crested above ; and " Strongy-
lures," whose tail is rounded, conical, or better cyclotetragonal. The
species recorded below belongs to the latter subdivision.
GENUS TEIUS, MERR.
GEN. CHAR. — Tongue long and protractile, sheathing at the base,
covered with rhomboid papillae, subdivided upon its extremity into
two slender, smooth threads. No palatine teeth. Premaxillary teeth
slightly flattened, exhibiting two or three notches at their summit.
Anterior maxillary teeth hooked ; the rest being erect, compressed,
tricuspid in the young, and tuberculous in the old. Nostrils lateral,
situated between two plates, and approximating closely the first la-
bial. Eyelids extant. Tympanum near the external edge of the
auricular aperture. Two or three cross-folds under the neck. Back
covered with small, angular, not imbricated, scales, disposed upon
transverse series. Abdominal scutellae flat, smooth, quadrilateral,
51
202 SAURIA.
oblong, alternating. Femoral pores present. Five fingers and five
toes, unequal, compressed, not carinated above. Tail cyclo tetrago-
nal, somewhat compressed posteriorly.
SYN.— Tejus, MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 60.— GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus.
1845, 16.
Monitor, Cuv. Regn. Anim. II, 1817, 27 ; &, 2d ed. II, 1829, 28.
Podinema, WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830', 153.— WIEGM. Herp. Mex. 1834, 8.
Ctenodon, WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Ainph. 1830, 153.— WIEGM. Herp. Mex. 1834, 8.
Exypneustes, KAUP, in Oken's Isis, 1826, 87.— WIEGM. Herp. Mex. 1834, 8.
Salvator, BUM. & BIBR. Erp6t. gen. V,"1839, 78.
OBSERV. — We agree with Gray in restoring the genus Teius, of Mer-
rem, although the species we refer to it here, is not placed the first on
the list by the author just mentioned. The name of Monitor is very
objectionable, it having been applied indiscriminately to species be-
longing to the Varanid family as well as to Lacertians. That of Sal-
vator might have been adopted with great propriety, had there not
been another claiming priority.
TEIUS TEGUIXIN, Schinz.
(Plate XVIII, figs. 1-7.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Two large plates upon the loral (phrenic) region, imme-
diately behind the postnasal. Upper portion of the temporal region
exhibiting five or six shields of moderate size. Ground color of upper
regions black, with yellow spots variously disposed ; inferior regions
yellowish, maculated with black.
SYN. — Le sauvegarde, MERIAN, De Metamorph. Insect. Surinam. 1705, Tab. LXX.
Amphibium, MERIAN, De Metamorph. Insect. Surinam. 1705, Tab. iv (jun.).
Lacerta tecuixin minor sen, teiuguacu, Novae Hispaniae, SEBA, Thes. Nat. I, 1734,
150, Tab. xcvi, fig. 1 (jun.).
Lacerta cuetzpallin dicta, innocua eleyantissima, SEBA, Thes. Nat. 1, 1734, 153, Tab.
xcvii, fig. 5 (jun.).
Lacerta tejuguacu americana maxima, sauvegarde dicta, marmoreis colons amphibia,
SEBA, Thes. Nat. I, 1734, 54, Tab. xcix, fig. 1.
Lacerta cauda tereti corpore duplo longiore, &c., HAST, in Amaen. Acad. I, 1749,
128.
Lacertus tejuguacu americana maxima, sauvegarde dicta, KLEIN, Quadr. Disp.
1751, 102.
TEIUS TEGUIXIN. 203
Lacerta teguixin, LINN. Mus. Adolph. Freder. 1754, 45 ; Syst. Nat. edit. X", 1760,
208 ; &, edit. XII», 1768, 368.— GMEL. Linn. Syst. Nat. ed. XIII», I, 1788, 1073.
Sepx marmoratus, LAUR. Synops. Kept. 1768, 59.
Lacerta monitor, LATR. Hist. nat. Kept. I, 1801, 220.
Tupinamlis monitor, BAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. Ill, 1803, 20. — KUHL, Act. Acad. nat.
cur. XI, 1820, 125.— MAXIM. Reise in Bras. I, 1820, 61 & 159; II, 1821, 138; Beitr.
Naturg. Bras. I, 1825, 155.— SPIX, Nov. Spec. Lacert. Bras. 1825, 19, Tab. xix.
Monitor meriani, BLAINV. Bull. Soc. Philom. 1816, 111.
Tr-jus monitor, MERR. Tent. Syst. Arnph. 1820, 61.— MAXIM. Rec. PI. d'Anim. Col.
1822.
Monitor teguixin, FITZ. Verz. Zool. Mus. Wien, 1826, 51. — EICHW. Zool. Spec. Ross.
& Polon. Ill, 1837, 190.
Podinema teguixin, WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 133. — WIEGM. Herp. Mexic.
I, 1834, 8.
Ti-guixin monitor, GRAY, Synops. Rept. in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 29.
Tejus teguixin, SHINNZ. Naturg. und Abbild. Rept. 1833, 96, PI. xxxv (Copies
Maximil.).— GRAY, Ann. Nat. Hist. I, 1838, 276; &, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 16,
Salaator merianae, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. V, 1839, 85.
Le teguixin, DAUB. Quad. Ovip. & Serp. (Encyl. meth.), 685.
Le teyougouazou, AZZARA, Ess. Hist. Nat. Quadr. Parag. II, 1802, 387.
Variegated lizard, SHAW, Gen. Zool. Ill, I, 1802, 235, PI. LXXIII & LXXIV.
La sauvegarde d'Amtrique, Cuv. Regn. Anim. II, 1817, 27.
La grande sauvegarde d'Amerique, Cuv. R6gn. Anim. 2d edit. II, 1829, 28.
The great American safeguard, GRIFF, in Cuv. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 113.
OBSERV. — This animal having often been described and several
times figured, we might have simply alluded to it here in recording it
in this report. The beautiful figure of it, made by the artist of the
Exploring Expedition, while at Rio de Janeiro, in January, 1831), has
induced us to speak in general terms of its most prominent features.
Modern writers distinguish two species, apparently very closely
allied, distributed over the same geographic range, and exhibiting the
same general pattern of coloration, which, in both, is liable to varia-
tions of some minor degrees, according to age and sex.
The apparent organic differences between the two species alluded to
by herpetologists, consist in the number of plates on the loral (phrenic)
region, and the number also of shields along the upper part of the tem-
poral region : differences which must necessarily appear very slight.
The Expedition brought home but one specimen, a prepared skin,
about the size of the accompanying figure, which was made from an-
other specimen, one-third larger. With such materials on hand, we
cannot criticise the validity of the distinction drawn between the two
species, and since the specimen before us exhibits the traits attributed
204 SAURIA.
to T. teguixin, we have recorded it under that name, quoting such syno-
nyms as are ascribed to it in the systematic works, leaving aside
such of the ancient writers who, unaware of the above differences,
have spoken indiscriminately of the two species.
The best and most accurate description of this species is that given
in the " Erpetologie g^nerale," to which we refer our readers.
The ground color of the upper regions is black, with yellow spots
disposed or arranged in various manners. On the specimen before us>
they are grouped, so as to simulate transverse fasciae or bands ; some-
times, they are disposed upon two longitudinal zones, one on each side.
The upper surface of the head and limbs is spotted with yellow. On
the tail, the spots are arranged upon transverse rings. The inferior
surface of the head and belly is yellow, maculated with black, which
is sometimes in transverse bars or bands along the abdomen ; the
limbs and tail beneath being maculated with black.
LOG. — From the neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Plate XVIII, fig. 1, represents Teius teguixin, two-thirds the size of
life.
Fig. 2, exhibits the upper surface of the head.
Fig. 3, is the inferior surface of the same.
Fig. 4, a side view of a finger.
Fig. 5, a side view of a toe.
Fig. 6, a group of dorsal scales.
Fig. 7, a group of abdominal scutellae.
FAM. ZONTJRIDAE.
A trait which will at once enable any observer to recognize a mem-
ber of this family, consists in the presence, along the sides of the body,
of a longitudinal zone, covered with granular scales, to which zone cor-
responds a fold of the skin. The back is protected with large, squarish,
or rhombic scales, and the abdomen with rather well-developed scu-
tellae. The body itself is elongated, somewhat depressed, generally
provided with four limbs, and occasionally with the posterior pair
alone, else none at all, or hidden under the skin. The head is pyra-
midal or depressed, covered with regular polygonal plates. The tongue
E L G A R I A. 205
is flat, bifurcated at the tip. There is an external auricular aperture,
and the eyes are provided with two valvular lids. The tail is either
spinose or unarmed, sometimes excessively long, as for instance in the
genus Elgaria, as represented on Plates XXII and XXIII, of the ac-
companying atlas.
SYN. — Ptt/chopleuri, WiEGM. Herp. Mex. I, 1834, 11.
Cyclosaures pti/c hopleures, DUM. &, BIBR. Erpet. gen. V, 1839, 336.
Zonuridae, GRAY, Ann. Nat. Hist. I, 1838, 388; & Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 45.
Cordyles, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 45.
OBSERV. — All the representatives of this family are strictly terres-
trial, never making for the water, even temporarily, and keeping on
the surface of the soil or in burrows. They belong to the warm climes
of both hemispheres. They are inoffensive, without means of attack
or defence, seeking after small animals to prey upon, such as feeble
molluscs, annelids, and insects.
GENUS ELGARIA, GRAY.
GEX. CHAR. — Head subpyramidal, covered above with well-developed
and smooth plates. Occipitals scale-like. Vertex plate largest.
Two pairs of small internasals. An odd prefrontal, and a pair of
postfrontals. Dorsal scales disposed upon transverse and, at the
same time, longitudinal series, moderately keeled, armless. Abdo-
men protected by twelve longitudinal series of subquadrangular and
smooth shields. Femoral pores wanting. Limbs weak ; five fin-
gers and five toes, slender, unequal, plaited above and below. Tail
subcylindrical, slender, tapering, much longer than the body and
head together, surrounded with scales like those of the back, but
arranged upon verticils.
.—Elyaria, GRAY, Ann. Nat. Hist. I, 1838, 390 ; &, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus.
1845, 54.
OBSERV. — The odd prefrontal plate is sometimes subdivided into
two. The vertex plate is either subpentagonal or subhexagonal, elon-
gated, narrower in front than behind, and also occasionally subdivided
crosswise posteriorly. Five large supraoculars constitute a curved
series, convex towards the vertex plate, with three smaller ones, be-
52
206 SAURIA.
tween the concavity of the former series arid the supraciliary series,
which is composed of small, narrow, and elongated pieces, five in
number.
1. ELGARIA FORMOSA, B. & G.
(Plate XXIII, figs. 10-17.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Squamis doraualibus in octo d quad raginta series tran-scer-
sales et sexdecim longitudinales dispositis. Scutis postnasalibus duo-
bus, parvis. Scutellis praeanalibus quam abdominaUbus minoribus.
Supra olioaceo-viridescente, cum duodecimfasciis nigris undulatis trans
collum et tergum, singulis fasciis unam tantum seriem squamarunt
operientibus, quarurn apices sunt albi col or is ; infra wricolori.
SPEC. CHAR. — Dorsal scales disposed upon forty-eight transverse and
sixteen longitudinal series. Two small postnasals. Preanal shields
smaller than the abdominal ones. Ground color above greenish-
olive, with twelve undulating black bands across the neck and back,
covering but one row of scales, which are tipped with white ; be-
neath unicolor.
SYN. — Eli/aria formosa, B. & G. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 175.
DESCR. — The head, which constitutes about the fifth of the length,
the tail excluded, is subpyramidal; its surface is depressed, slightly con-
cave, and sloping towards the snout. The maxillary teeth, the only ones
present, are quite small, disposed upon one row, subconical, acute, and
curved inwardly. The occipital plates, numbering three pairs, have a
smooth appearance, with slight traces of subtubercular ridges ; the an-
terior two pairs inclosing an odd and subcordiform one, whilst a few
small scales may be observed between the posterior pair. The vertex
plate is elongated, subhexagonal, broadest posteriorly, and somewhat
concave laterally. There is a pair of postfrontals, and an odd prefron-
tal, larger than the latter individually. In advance of the prefrontal
are two pairs of small internasals or interfron to- rostral. The rostral
itself is quite low, and scarcely perceptible upon an upper view of the
head (fig. 12). The nostril opens towards the posterior edge of an
oblong nasal plate, between which and a rather large subquadrangular
loral, may be observed two small postnasal plates. Three elongated
ELGARIA FORMOSA. 207
plates, border ridge-like, the antero-inferior rim of the orbit ; the pos-
terior, which is the longest, is situated beneath the pupil ; the ante-
rior one is the broadest, and is contiguous to the loral and the anterior
supraciliary. The supraciliary ridge is composed of five plates, gradu-
ally diminishing in size posteriorly. The supraocular plates consti-
tute two series : an internal, subcrescentic, composed of five rather
large plates, the anterior of which being contiguous sideways to the
postfrontal and anterior supraciliary, and, by its anterior angle, to the
loral, whilst posteriorly it comes into contact with the temporal shields
and occipital plates ; the second series of supraoculars occupies the
concavity of the first series, being lined exteriorly by the supraciliary
ridge. The surface of the eyelid is covered with small, subquadran-
gular, flat, and pavement-like plates, whilst upon their edge they as-
sume the appearance of a series of minute granules or beads. The
temporal shields have pretty nearly the size and shape of the scales of
the neck, and are provided with rudimentary keels. There are eight
upper labials from the rostral to the posterior edge of the orbit. The
inferior labials are disposed upon two series : an upper one, composed
of six narrow plates, narrowest and longest posteriorly, whilst in the
inferior series, which contains but five plates, the latter increase in size
backwards. The symphyseal plate is smaller than the rostral. The
anterior pair of mental shields is very small ; the three next pairs are
well developed ; the third and fourth being the largest, and nearly
equal.
The neck is slightly contracted, and about two-thirds the length of
the head. The body is elongated, subcylindrical, thickest upon its
middle region. There are forty-eight transverse series of scales from
the occiput to the origin of the tail, nine of which belonging to the
neck proper. The scales themselves are imbricated, strongly carinated,
subtetragonal in shape ; the middle row along the back being narrower
anteriorly than posteriorly (fig. 15) ; they constitute likewise sixteen
longitudinal series across the line of greatest thickness of the body.
The keels of the dorsal region are more developed than on the
sides, and constitute eight continuous ridges from head to tail. The
granular lateral area or zone is about an eighth of an inch wide on
the middle of the abdomen, widening forwards. From the middle of
the abdomen posteriorly, the granules, in becoming larger, assume the
shape of very small plates or scales. The abdominal scutellae are thin
and smooth, broader than long on the middle of the abdomen (fig. 17) ;
208 SAURIA.
they constitute twelve longitudinal series, or else six pairs, smallest
under the neck ; they likewise diminish in size laterally, and, on the
preanal region, from subquadrangular, they assume a more rounded
aspect, though not much diminished in size; in fact, they are as large
here as on the pectoral region.
The anterior limbs are very slender and short ; when they are
stretched towards the head, the extremities of the fingers are made to
reach the angle of the mouth; their insertion takes place in the granu-
lar area, contiguous, by their inferior surface, to the pectoro-abdominal
shields. The upper and anterior surface of both the forearm and arm
is covered with well-developed, polygonal, and subnodulous scales or
plates, extending somewhat under the elbow, where they diminish con-
siderably in size. On the inferior and posterior surfaces of the same
organs, we observe very small scales, assuming a granular appearance
towards the shoulder. The palm of the hand is minutely scaly. The
fingers, five in number, are plaited above and below to the very root
of the nails. The first or inner finger is the smallest ; the next in
length is the outermost or fifth; then the second, which is but slightly
longer than the fifth; the third and fourth are the longest, and nearly
equal in length, though the third stretches a little beyond the fourth.
The nails are subconical, compressed, and slightly curved. The poste-
rior limbs are somewhat longer and stouter than the anterior ones, and
similarly inserted in the granular zone. The thigh is covered ante-
riorly and superiorly with keeled, and beneath with smooth scales,
whil.-t on its posterior surface, the scales are very minute and granular
in their appearance. The scales on the upper and anterior aspects of
the leg proper are likewise keeled, though less conspicuously than on
the thigh; they are smooth beneath and posteriorly, where they simply
diminish in size without becoming granular. The feet have the same
general structure as the hands ; the sole is covered with small, elon-
gated, and somewhat raised scales. The inferior surface of the toes
has a verticillated appearance, arising from the disposition of the scales
or plates, which are slightly nodulous, as well as under the fingers ; a
series of plates is observed on their upper surface. The first toe is the
shortest ; the second is the next in length ; the third and fifth are
nearly equal, whilst the fourth is the longest. The nails are subconi-
cal, compressed at the base, curved, and acute. The tail appears to
be long and slender, judging of it from the portion preserved on the
specimen figured, and which is almost as long as the body and head
ELGARIA FORMOSA. 209
combined; it is subcylindrical, conical, tapering gradually into a point;
the scales covering it constitute continuous chains all around, in the
shape of true verticils, of which fifty-six may be counted ; on the
upper surface, they are strongly keeled or carinated, inconspicuously
so on the sides, and perfectly smooth beneath. The central upper as
well as the central lower series present a somewhat different aspect
from the adjoining series : the scales in the former being broader pos-
teriorly than anteriorly, whilst in the latter they are posteriorly acu-
minated.
The ground color is greenish-olive. The upper surface of the head is
unicolor; about twelve transverse undulating blackish bands on the
upper regions, somewhat interrupted laterally, so as to isolate a series
of patches along the back, traceable to a certain distance along the tail.
These bands cover but one row of scales, the tip or posterior margin
of which are whitish or greenish-white. The limbs are unicolor ; the
hind ones alone exhibiting black spots on the upper surface of the
thighs. The inferior surface is unicolor also.
This species is closely allied to Gerrhonotus multicarinatus, of Blain-
ville* (Elyaria multicarinata) , from which it differs in the structure
of some of the cephalic plates. Blainville himself is very brief of
details, and Dumeril and Bibronf do not contribute anything towards
a more accurate knowledge of it, so that we are left somewhat in the
dark upon several points of its structure. The figures accompanying
Blainville's Memoir exhibit some of the differences we have alluded
to. As a general rule, relying but little on the coloration as specific
character, we did not mention it here as a distinguishing feature.
Gerrhonotus burnettii, GRAY, appears to be closely allied also to this
species, hence to G. multicarinatus, with which it is identified by some
writers.
LOG. — This species inhabits the coast of Upper California.
Plate XXIII, fig. 10, represents a profile view of Elgaria formosa,
size of life.
Fig. 11, is a view of the inferior region of the body and tail. The
portion of the latter represented by a mere outline being missing.
Fig. 12, represents the head, seen from above.
* Nouv. Ann. Mus. Hist. Nat. IV, 1835, 289, PI. xxv, fig. 2.
f Erpetologie generate, V, 1839, 404.
53
210 SAUBIA.
Fig. 13, is a front view of the head.
Fig. 14, exhibits the left hand from above.
Fig. 15, is intended to give a correct idea of the structure and shape
of the dorsal scales.
Fig. 16, is a portion of the granular abdominal zone, taken on the
middle region.
Fig. 17, represents some of the abdominal shields, from the middle
region of the abdomen.
Figs. 14-17, are somewhat magnified views, in order to render the
details more apparent.
2. ELGARIA SCINCICAUDA, B. & G.
(Plate XXIII, figs. 1-9.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Dorsal scales disposed upon fifty-two transverse and
fourteen longitudinal series. Four unequal postnasal plates, and
one loral. Fourth pair of mental shields, large. Preanal shields
larger than the abdominal ones. Tail one-fourth longer than the
body and head combined. Above brownish-olive, with ten trans-
verse brown bands across the neck and back, covering but one row
of scales, which are tipped with white. Beneath unicolor.
SYN. — Tropidolepis scincicaudus, SKILT. Araer. Journ. of Sc. VII, 1849, 202, figs.
1-3.
Elyaria scincicauda, B. & G. Rep. on Kept, in Stansb. Expl. Valley Gr. Salt Lake,
Utah, 1852, 348, PI. iv, figs. 1-3.
DESCR. — This species, though closely allied to the preceding one in
its general appearance, may, on a closer examination, be easily distin-
guished by the proportional development of some organic regions, as
well as structural details, which may not be deemed unimportant :
and first of all, the head and neck together constitute exactly the
third of the length, from the tip of the snout to the vent, whilst these
same regions are shorter in E. formosa. The limbs are considerably
more developed than in the latter, particularly the anterior pair. The
tail not being whole in E. formosa, nothing can be deduced from its
proportional length, as restored on the figure, but in comparing the
portion that is left, we find fifty-six annular rows of scales, and forty-
nine only in E. scincicauda, upon the same extent. Next we find fifty-
ELGARIA SCINCICAUDA. 211
two transverse series of scales from the occiput to the vent, constitu-
ting fourteen longitudinal series, instead of sixteen ; of these fifty-two
transverse rows, ten or eleven belong to the neck proper. The middle
dorsal series presents the same form as in E.formosa, but the adjacent
ones of the back and sides are proportionally broader and less trape-
zoid in their outline (fig. 7). The keels are less conspicuous, parti-
cularly on the sides. In Elgaria formosa, four pairs of continuous
ridges appear prominently along the back, whilst in E. scincicauda five
single series only are noticed. The granular zone is broader on the
sides of the neck, and the auricular aperture larger in E. scincicauda
than in E.formosa. The abdominal shields constitute twelve longitu-
dinal series in both species, and forty-three transverse rows from the
origin of the fore limbs backwards in this, whilst there are only
forty of them in E. formosa. The preanal shields are considerably
larger than the rest, in the species which is the subject of the present
description. The pectoral and gular shields are irregular in size and
shape. The mental shields acquire also a very great development.
The vertex plate is subdivided, but, as we presume, merely accidentally.
The outer row of supraoculars is more developed than in E. formosa,
and apparently less than in E. multicarinata. The pavement-like
plates covering the eyelids are also more conspicuous, and the occipi-
tal plates and temporal shields smoother. The scales on the upper
and anterior part of the fore limbs are slightly keeled in both E. for-
mosa and E. scincicauda. The hands and fingers have the same
structure. The posterior surface of the thighs exhibits a much finer
granulation in E. scincicauda than in E. formosa. The sole of the
feet is covered with small, somewhat raised, and subtubercular scales
in both species; the toes, constructed on the same pattern, present a
greater development of the inferior scales in E. scincicauda than in E.
formosa.
The ground color is brownish-olive. Ten transverse bands of black-
ish-brown, occupying one scale in width, may be observed from the
neck to the origin of the tail, leaving a space of three scales between
each ; the tip or margin of the dark scales is generally whitish ; while
some of these dark bands run across a continuous row of scales, others
make a sudden break, and pass to the adjoining row, immediately
behind, or to the second and even third row, as observed towards the
inferior region of the flanks. The upper surface of the head is spotted
with brown. Brown blotches may be seen along the upper region of
212 SAURIA.
the tail to a considerable extent. The inferior region, from the chin
to the tip of the tail, is uniform yellowish-brown. The abdominal
shields exhibiting a clouded streak along their medial line.
Loc. — Upper California, now the State of that name.
Plate XXIII, fig. 1, represents Elgaria scincicauda, size of life.
Fig. 2, is a view of the inferior region of the body and tail.
Fig. 3, represents the head, seen from above.
Fig. 4, is a front view of the head.
Fig. 5, exhibits the left hand, from above.
Fig. 6, the left foot, from above also.
Fig. 7, a group of scales from the dorsal region.
Fig. 8, is a portion of the granular zone, taken on the middle region.
Fig. 9, abdominal shields, from the middle region of the abdomen.
Figs. 5-9, are somewhat magnified.
3. ELGARIA GRANDIS, B. & G.
(Plate XXII, figs. 1-9.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Squamis dorsualibus in qiiinquaginta series transversals
et quatuordecim longitudinales dispositis. Soutis postnasalibus quatuor,
inaequalibus. Scutellis praeanalibus quam abdominalibus minoribus.
Gauda longissima, duplam fere corporis et capitis longitudinem attin-
gente. Supra olivaceo-fuscescente, cum undecim fasciis fuscis tram col-
lum et tergum, singulis fasciis unam tantum seriem squamarum operi-
entibus, quarum apices sunt albi coloris ; infra unicolorL
SPEC. CHAR. — Dorsal scales disposed upon fifty transverse and four-
teen longitudinal series. Four unequal postnasal plates. Preanal
shields smaller than the abdominal ones. Tail very long, nearly
twice the length of the body and head combined. Above brownish-
olive, with eleven brown bands across the neck and back, covering
one row of scales, which are tipped with white. Beneath unicolor.
S?H.—El(jaria yrandis, B. & G. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 176.
ELGABIA GRANDIS. 213
DESCR. — There is quite a striking resemblance between this species
and E. scincicauda, and, upon a first glance, it might appear prema-
ture to regard them as distinct from one another. The most striking
difference consists in the proportional length of the tail, which, in the
present species, Js nearly twice the length of the body and head to-
gether, thus, much longer than in E. scincicauda. The limbs are more
developed also than in the preceding species. There are fifty trans-
verse rows of scales from the occiput to the origin of the tail, ten of
which belonging to the region of the neck. The longitudinal series
are fourteen in number, and provided with a moderate keel. The
scales themselves are somewhat smaller than in E. scincicauda. The
mental shields are less developed than in the latter species. The same
is true with regard to the preanal scutellae or shields. The abdominal
shields are smaller in the same proportions as the dorsal scales. The
scales covering the anterior and upper parts of the limbs are almost
entirely smooth, whilst in E. scincicauda several of the upper series
are distinctly keeled. One hundred and eight verticils of scales may
be counted from the base of the tail to its apex, which is very slender.
The upper scales are slightly carinated or keeled ; the lateral and in-
ferior ones being smooth.
The ground color is brownish-olive. The head unicolor. Eleven
dorsal, transverse, blackish bands, somewhat broken up along the back
and lower portion of the flanks, covering but one scale, leaving its
margin or else its tip whitish. These bands are more closely approxi-
mated in the present species than in E. scincicauda, in which we
observe generally three rows of intervening scales, whilst there are
only two in E. yrandis. The inferior surface is unicolor.
Loc. — This species inhabits Oregon.
Plate XXII, fig. 1, represents a profile view of Elyaria grandis,
size of life.
Fig. 2, exhibits the inferior surface of the same animal.
Fig. 3, the head, seen from above.
Fig. 4, front view of the head.
Fig. 5, the left hand from above.
Fig. 6, a group of dorsal scales.
Fig. 7, a portion of the granular zone, taken on the middle region of
the abdomen.
54
214 SAURIA.
Fig. 8, abdominal shields, from the middle region of the abdomen.
Figs. 5-8, are drawn about twice the size of life.
4. ELGARIA PRINCIPIS, B. & G.
(Plate XXII, figs. 9-16.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Squamis dorsualibus in octo et quadraginta series transver-
sales et quatuordecim longitudinales dispositis. Scutis postnasallbus
tribus, inaequalibus. Scutellis praeanalibus qiiam abdominal ibus ma-
joribus. Oauda corporis et capitis longitudinem aliqaanto excedente.
Supra fusco-olivacea, maculis nigrescentibus in series longitudinaUs
ordinatis ; infra unicolori.
SPEC. CHAR. — Dorsal scales disposed upon forty-eight transverse and
fourteen longitudinal series. Three unequal postnasals. Preanal
shields larger than the abdominal ones. Tail longer than the body
and head together. Above olivaceous-brown, with blackish spots
disposed upon irregular longitudinal series. Beneath unicolor.
Svx.—Elgaria principis, B. & G. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 175.
DESCR. — The tail is but a little longer than the body and head to-
gether. The limbs are proportionally well developed. The head and
neck constitute two-fifths of the length, from the tip of the snout to
the base of the tail. The head is quite depressed. The vertex plate
is nearly as broad anteriorly as posteriorly. The prefrontal is occa-
sionally subdivided, as in the specimen figured (figs. 11 and 12). The
occipitals are larger than in any of the other species. The external
series of supraoculars may likewise be noticed for their size. The
dorsal scales are disposed upon forty-eight transverse rows, from the
occiput to the origin of the tail, constituting twelve longitudinal well-
developed series, and two (one on each side) of much smaller ones ;
they are moderately keeled on the back. Well-marked keels may be
observed on the scales covering the upper part of the limbs. There
are fifty-four verticils of scales along the tail, from its origin to its
apex, laterally keeled, as well as above.
AMPHISBAENIDAE. 215
The ground color is olivaceous-brown. There are dorsal blackish
spots disposed upon several irregular , longitudinal series. The head,
the inferior surface of the body and tail are unicolor.
LOG. — Specimens of this species were collected up Puget Sound,
Washington Territory.
Plate XXII, fig. 9, represents the profile of Elyaria principle, size
of life.
Fig. 10, the same specimen, seen from beneath.
Fig. 11, the head, from above.
Fig. 12, a front view of the head.
Fig. 13, the left hand from above.
Fig. 14, a group of dorsal scales.
Fig. 15, a portion of the granular zone, taken on the middle region
of the abdomen.
Fig. 16, a group of abdominal shields.
Figs. 11-16, are somewhat magnified.
FAM. AMPHISBAENTDAE.
In their external aspect, the representatives of this family resemble
so much the serpents that several naturalists have classed them in
the latter Order of reptiles. Their internal structure, however, leaves
no doubt as to their real affinities with the Saurians or lizards at large.
Their body is elongated, cylindrical, or subcylindrical, and naked
or scaleless. The skin, which is tough, exhibits transverse rings or
circular verticils, nearly equal, each of which is subdivided into small
quadrangular partitions, somewhat elevated, as tubercles would be,
and generally symmetrical. There are no eyelids, and, in some in-
stances, the eyes themselves are quite rudimentary and even entirely
hidden ; neither is there an external auricular aperture : a feature
essentially characteristic of the order of Ophidians or serpents. The
limbs are always wanting, the anterior pair as well as the posterior
pair; they do not even appear in a rudimentary form, as is sometimes
the case in certain serpents. The surface of the head is protected by
plates or shields, varying in number and arrangement, according to
216 SAURIA.
the genera. The tongue is flat, broad, subelliptical, posteriorly emar-
ginated ; it tapers off anteriorly, where it is moreover subdivided into
two thin and smooth threads ; otherwise, the surface of that organ is
covered with large scale-like papillae, or else flattened, smooth, imbri-
cated scales, rounded upon their free edge, which is directed towards
the back part of the mouth.
The teeth are either firmly adhering to the jaw bones or else inserted
upon their inner edge into a common groove, hence, giving two groups :
the Acrodonts (Amphisbaenidae) and the Pleurodonts (Lepidosternidae) .
SYN. — Amphisbaenoidea, FITZ. Neue Class. Kept. 1826, 11.
Amphisbaenidae, BONAP. Saggio, Distr. Aniin. Vertebr. 1831. — GRAY, Synops. Brit.
Mus. 1840 ; & Catal. Tort. Croc. & Amphisb. Brit. Mus. 1844, 09.
Amphisbaenae, WiEGM. Herp. Mex. I, 1834, 20.
Cydosaureg glyptodermes, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. V, 1839, 464.
Lepidosternidae, GRAY, Catal. Tort. Croc. & Amphisb. Brit. Mus. 1844, 73.
OBSERV. — The species which we record further on, the only one we
possess of the present family, belongs to the group of Pleurodonts or
Lepidosternidae.
GENUS CEPHALOPELTIS, MULL.
GEN. CHAR. — One rostral and one cephalic plate ; the latter covering
the entire upper surface of the head. Snout protruding beyond the
lower jaw, with the nostrils under its apex. Eyes not visible. Pec-
toral shields large. Four longitudinal depressed lines : a dorsal, an
abdominal, and a lateral one, dividing the body into four elongated
zones. Fifteen or more verticils around the tail.
.— CephalopeUis, MiiLL. in Tied. u. Trev. Zeitschr.f. Physiol. IV, 1832.— WIEGM.
Herp. Mex. I, 1834, 20.— GRAY, Catal. Tort. Croc. & Amphisb. Brit. Mus. 1844, 73.
OBSERV. — The four longitudinal lines which divide the surface of
the body into as many areas are the result of the decussation of the
dermic partitions upon the regions where they occur; they do not
extend to the tail, except the dorsal one, which may slightly affect a
few of the caudal verticils.
CEPHALOPELTIS SCUTIGERA. 217
CEPHALOPELTIS SCUTIGERA, Gray.
SPEC. CHAR.— Pectoral shields from eight to twelve in number. Ab-
dominal partitions regularly quadrangular, larger than the dorsal
ones, which are more irregular, some being subelliptical. Fifteen
caudal verticils, with the dermic partitions or squares larger than
on the surface of the body. Color superiorly fulvous or white, with
a reddish-brown spot upon each scale. The head and neck are uni-
color, like the inferior region.
SYN.— Amphislaena scuti'ycra, HEMPR. Verb. Gesell. Xaturf. Freunde, Berl. I, 1820,
129.
Cephalopeltu cuvieri, MiiLL. in Tied. u. Trev. Zeitchr. fur Physiol. IV, 1832, 253,
Tab. xxi, figs. 6 & 7 ; & Tab. xxn, fig. 5, a, b, c.
Lepidosternon hemprichit, WiEQM. Handb. Zool. 1832, 186.
Cephalopeltis hemprichii, WIEGM. Herp. Mex. I, 1834, 20.
Lepidosternon scutigerum, DUM. & BiBR. Erpet. gen. V, 1839, 509.
Cephalopeltis scutiyera, GRAY, Catal. Tort. Croc. & Amphisb. Brit. Mus. 1844, 73.
OBSERY. — One specimen of this species brought home by the Expe-
dition measures between seventeen and eighteen inches in total length,
an inch and a quarter belonging to the tail. The body is subcylindri-
cal, nearly equal in diameter throughout its whole length. The tail
itself is bluntly rounded off, almost as thick at the apex as at the base.
The head is rather small, subconical, broader than deep, and quite con-
vex above. The nostrils, placed under the extremity of the rostrum,
are conspicuous, close to the margin of the mouth, and opposite the
edges of the symphyseal plate.
We observe twelve distinct pectoral shields symmetrically arranged
right and left, and a few additional ones irregularly disposed upon the
periphery of the principal group. Three pairs are much larger than
the rest : an anterior and a posterior pair, contiguous upon their mesial
line, and a medio-lateral pair, isolated by the former two. Three
other and much smaller pairs, placed exteriorly to those already men-
tioned, come next into notice, and smaller still are those at the peri-
phery of the group, and which have a tendency of being combined
with the adjoining folds of the integuments.
LOG. — Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
55
218 SAUBIA.
FAM. SCINCrDAE.
The Seines and allied genera, which constitute the present family,
have a fusiform or subcylindrical body, a rounded back, without either
a dorsal crest or raised spines, or folds on the sides, and terminated
by a cylindrical and tapering tail ; it is covered with smooth, keeled,
or striated and imbricated scales. The abdomen is protected by scales
similar in shape and structure to those of the back. The limbs are
generally four in number : two anterior and two posterior, more or less
developed ; sometimes, one pair only exists, and occasionally none at
all. The fingers and toes are subjected to considerable variations in
number and development. The neck is continuous with the chest.
As to the head, it is subquadrangular, regularly shielded, or plated.
The nostrils are lateral. The tongue is free, flattened, not sheathed,
slightly emarginated anteriorly, with its surface entirely or partly
papillar ; generally, the papillae are scale-like ; sometimes, a portion
only are scale-like, whilst the others are filiform. The maxillary teeth
are, generally speaking, slender and acerated ; sometimes tuberculous.
The palate1 is either toothed or toothless. The eyes are either distinct,
wanting, or hidden under the skin ; when they are distinct, they pre-
sent either a double or a single lid.
When the eyes are wanting or hidden, we have the group of
Typhlophthalmians ; when they exist and present a double lid, we
have the Saurophthalmians, and when the eyelid is single, the
Ophiophthalmians. Of the first named group no specimens were
collected by the Expedition.
SYN.— Scincoides, OPPEL, Kept. Prodr. 1811, 20.
Scincoidea, FITZ. Neue Class. Kept. 1826, 23.
Scincoidiens, Cuv. Regn. Anim. 11, 1817, 52; &, 2d ed. II, 1829, 85.— COCT. Tab.
synopt. Scincoid. in Compt. Rend. Acad. des So. IV, 1837, 14. — DUM. & BIBR. Erpet.
gen. V, 1839, 511.
Scincidae, GRAY, Ann. Nat. Hist. II, 1839, 287 ; Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 70 ;
&, Zool. Ereb. & Terr, vi, 1845, 6.
Scinci, WIEGM. Herp. Mex. I, 1834, 11.
Ltpidosaures, DUM. & BIBR. Erp6t. g6n. V, 1839, 511.
OBSERV. — The Seines are cosmopolite in their distribution, and ex-
CRYPTOBLEPHARUS. 219
clusively terrestrial in their habits, feeding on insects and small
animals generally.
SUBFAM. OPHIOPHTHALMI.
The eyes are naked; the eyelids being rudimentary, circular, ring-
like, and immovable. Auricular aperture exteriorly visible. The
maxillary teeth are simple and conical ; the palate being toothless.
The tongue is scaly, nicked at the tip, which is bifid. Body fusiform
or subfusiform; the scales being smooth, keeled, or striated. There
are four limbs, weak and unequal. The fingers and toes varying" in
number. Femoral pores wanting. Preanal pores in a few genera.
SYN. — Ophiophthalm.es, COCT. Etud. Scincoid. 1836; &, Tabul. synopt. Seine, in
Compt. Rend. Acad. des Sc. IV, 1837, 17.— BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. V, 1839, 805.
Ophiophthalmi, FJT'Z. Syst. Kept. 1843, 23.
Gymnophthalmidae, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 62.
OBSERV. — The representatives of this group are comparatively few
in number, yet there are amongst them, genera having the ordinary
aspect of the typical Saurians, others whose body elongates, and in
which the limbs are so much reduced in their external development
as to assume an ophidian or serpent-like appearance.
GENUS CRYPTOBLEPHARUS, WIEGM.
GEN. CHAR. — Body subfusiform, subdepressed, covered with smooth
scales, else very finely or indistinctly grooved. , Head depressed, sub-
pyramidal. Nostrils lateral, in a single plate. No internasal. An
odd prefrontal. One pair of postfrontals ; sometimes combined. A
vertex plate. Parietals and middle occipital combined into one large
plate. Tongue flat, scaly. Palate toothless. Eyelid rudimentary,
circular. Auricular aperture moderate. Limbs four ; five fingers
and five toes, unequal, depressed. Subdigital plates smooth. Tail
roundish, tapering into a point.
Cryptollepharus, WIEQM. in Nov. Act. Nat. Cur. XVII, 1, 1834, 204; &, Herp.
Mex. I, 1834, 12.— COCT. Etud. Seine. 1836.— GRAY, in Ann. Nat. Hist. II, 1839,
335 ; Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 64 ; &, Zool. Voy. Ereb. & Terr, vi, 1845, 3.
Petia, GRAY, MSS.
220
S A U R I A.
OBSERV. — The chief difference which exists between this genus and
AUepharus, to which it is closely related, consists in a circular eyelid,
which forms a complete ring around the eye, though immovable and ru-
dimentary. The posterior extremity of the vertex plate is contiguous
to the anterior angle of the combined parietals and middle occipital,
whilst in AUepharus the large supraoculars of either side form a con-
tinuous chain posteriorly, which interposes itself between the vertex
plate arid the middle occipital ; they are likewise well developed in the
latter genus^ whilst the parietals are wanting, their place being occu-
pied by the posterior supraoculars. In Ablepharus, moreover, we
observe two very large preanal shields, whilst in Cryptoblepliarus,
there are four preanal shields of moderate size, though larger than the
adjoining scales on the interfemoral region.
1. CRYPTOBLEPHARUS PLAGIOCEPHALUS, Grd.
(Plate XXVI, figs. 17-24.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Scales of the body disposed upon twenty-eight longitu-
dinal series around its middle region. Median series of subcaudal
scales larger than the rest. Ground color above of a bronze or cop-
pery hue, with two light lines : one on each side of the back, and
margined with brown. Beneath unicolor, greenish, or orange.
SYN. — Scincus plagiocephalus, PERON, MSS.
Cri/ptoblepharus peronii, COCT. Etud. Seine. 1836 (figured).
Ablepharus peronii, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. g£n. V, 1839, 813.
Cryptoblepharus boutomi, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 64.
Tiliqua buchanani, GRAY, in. Ann. Nat. Hist. II, 1839, 291.
OBSERV. — It is with hesitation and reluctance that we record the
present species under the above appellation. We have been compelled
to it by the want of specimens from the localities whence those of our
predecessors were obtained. A question of such vital importance to
zoological geography as the present one, is not to be passed over with
indifference. The species is given by various writers as almost cos-
mopolite : we are ready to acknowledge the fact upon evidences, and
these evidences, for us, are the various specimens themselves, compared
carefully with one another.
CRYPTOBLEPHARUS PLAUIOCEPHALUS. 221
Should their identity be established beyond any reasonable doubt,
investigations on that subject are not to end there. It will then become
of paramount importance to look back into the past history of the coun-
tries where the species now occurs, with a view to ascertain, if possible,
as to whether it is indigenous to those countries or therein introduced.
Dumeril and Bibron describe four varieties of coloration ; the speci-
mens before us agree with their second variety : the only one with
which we are thoroughly acquainted. We believe it to be the one ori-
ginally observed by Peron, and we restore the specific name proposed
by him. We have made such a selection of the synonyms as in our
judgment can rightly be assigned to it, leaving it with future investi-
gations to decide on the identity or differences of those we have set
aside.
On a sketch colored from living specimens obtained at Otaheiti,
in September and October, 1839, the upper surface of the head,
neck, body, tail, limbs, and sides exhibits a golden hue, variegated with
black. A narrow golden streak, margined on either side by a black
line, may be traced along the upper part of the flanks, from the supra-
ocular region to the base of the tail. Beneath, the color is of a uni-
form dull white ; sometimes bluish-grey. The specimens in alcohol,
collected at the Sandwich Islands, present the same general pattern
of coloration, with the exception, that the inferior surface is of a
greenish-yellow. The golden hue of the upper regions, if it really
existed, has left behind it an olivaceous tint.
Loc. — Specimens were collected at Otaheiti and at the Sandwich
Islands.
Plate XXVI, fig. 17, represents Cryptoblepliarus plagiocephalm, size
of life.
Fig. 18, is an upper view of the head;
Fig. 19, a profile; and,
Fig. 20, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 21, exhibits the left hand from above;
Fig. 22, the same hand from beneath.
Fig. 23, a group of dorsal scales.
Fig. 24, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 18-24, are somewhat magnified.
56
922 SAURIA.
2. CRYPTOBLEPHARUS EXIMITJS, Grd.
(Plate XXVI, figs. 25-32.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Squamis in quatuor et viginti series circum medium cor-
pus dispositis. Squamis subcaudalibus aequalibiis vel subaequcdilm*.
Supra s'ubviridi, cum duabus claris lineis vel vittis in utroque latere ;
infra unicolori.
SPEC. CHAR. — Scales disposed upon twenty-four longitudinal series
around the middle region of the body. Subcaudal scales equal or
nearly so. Back greenish ; two light lines or streaks on each
side ; beneath unicolor.
SYN. — Cryptoblepharus eximius, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November,
1857.
DESCR. — It is a much smaller and more slender animal than the
preceding species, gracefully elongated, with a depressed head and
body ; the tail being subcylindrical, and slightly depressed at the base
only. The snout is more pointed ; the eye larger, and the auricular
aperture smaller than in the foregoing species. The three upper and
middle scales of the rim of the orbit are proportionally more developed
also. The scales constitute but twenty-four longitudinal series, instead
of twenty-eight, around the middle region of the body, and beneath
the tail they are nearly all equal.
The dorsal region is greenish or brownish-green. On each side, we
observe two whitish or yellowish lines extending from the head to the
base of the tail : the uppermost beginning at the nostril and passing
over the orbit. The lowermost from beneath the orbit, bending slightly
upwards behind the latter, hence straightway to the groins, after passing
over the auricular aperture. These lines or streaks are margined with
deep brown or chestnut; the middle space between them being entirely
of the latter hue, so that at a first glance, there are three dark streaks,
and two light ones. The inferior portion of the sides and upper sur-
face of the tail and limbs are spotted or maculated with brown and
white. A uniform bluish-brown pervades the inferior region of the
SAUROPHTHALHI. 223
head and belly, whilst the tail is obscurely maculated or speckled
with brown.
LOG. — Feejee Archipelago: "very common, especially in open
grounds, near the sea."
Plate XXVI, fig. 25, represents Gryptoblepharus eximius, size of life.
Fig. 26, is an upper view of the head ;
Fig. 27, a profile; and,
Fig. 28, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 29, exhibits the left hand from above;
Fig. 30, the same hand from beneath.
Fig. 31, a group of dorsal scales.
Fig. 32, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 26-32, are somewhat magnified.
SUBPAM. SAUROPHTHALMI.
The eyelids are conformed as in the majority of Saurians, movable
or valvular, and approximating, so as to allow an entire closing up
of the eye. The auricular aperture is either visible exteriorly or
entirely hidden. The maxillary teeth are of various sorts. The
palate toothed or toothless. The body is fusiform or subcylindrical ;
the tail also subcylindrical, and tapering. The scales being either
smooth, keeled, or striated. Limbs four in number, more or less de-
veloped; sometimes two only: the posterior, rudimentary, or else none
at all exteriorly apparent. Fingers and toes varying in number.
Neither femoral nor preanal pores.
SYN. — Saurophthalm.es, COCT. Tab. synopt. Seine, in Compt. Rend. Acad. des Sc. IV,
1837, 17.— DOM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. V, 1839, 553.
Saurophthalmi, FITZ. Syst. Kept. 1843, 22.
OBSERV. — Though the members of this group represent the true
type of Seines in their Order, there are genera which, in their general
aspect, resemble so much the serpents, that several ancient authors
have associated them with the latter; the partial or total absence of
exteriorly developed limbs, and an elongated, snake-like bodyj and
224 SAURIA.
even the fact that the auricular aperture is sometimes invisible, were
as many traits analogous to those of the snakes. Still their valvular
eyelids give them a peculiar physiognomy altogether at variance with
all the known forms of Ophidians.
GENUS OPHIODES, WAGL.
GEN. CHAR. — Head slender and depressed ; snout conical. No teeth
on the palate. Tongue bifid, covered anteriorly with granular, and
posteriorly with filiform papillae. Maxillary teeth conical and
simple. No external auricular aperture. Eyelid scaly. Nostrils
lateral, perforating a small plate. Two pairs of internasals or fronto-
rostral plates. Two postnasals and one loral. Body elongated, sub-
cylindrical, rounded, covered with striated scales, which appear
smooth when the epidermis is well preserved. No anterior limbs ;
posterior ones reduced to narrow, flattened, slender, and tapering
flaps, protected by scales. Tail conical and pointed.
SYN.— Ophiodes, WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Arnph. 1830, 159.— DUM. & BIBR. Erpet.
g<5n. V, 1839, 788.— GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 99.— DUM. & A. DuM.Cutal.
m6th. Kept. Mus. d'hist. nat. n, 1851, 188.
OBSERV.— The structure of the tongue appears to constitute the chief
generic feature in this genus : a large portion of its posterior surface
being covered with villous papillae, whilst its anterior extremity ex-
hibits a pavement of small granules. The granular portion is separated
from the villous portion by a deep transverse groove, and the apex of
the organ is subdivided into two angular points.
The history of the genus Ophiodes is somewhat interwoven with
that of Pygodactylus, established by Merrem in 1820. Fitzinger, in
1826, misunderstood the species upon which it was founded, and was
followed in 1830 by Wagler, who proposes to suppress Merrem's genus.
Dumeril and Bibron in 1839, and Gray in 1845, rendered the subject
still more intricate, when Fitzinger himself, in 1843, restored both
Ophiodes and Pygodactylus as distinct genera, giving up his claims to
the genus Pygodactylus, and abandoning also that of Scelotes, likewise
proposed by him in 1826, and upheld by Gray and the herpetologists
of the Paris Museum.
OPHIODES STRIATUS. 225
OPHIODES STRIATUS, Wagl.
SPEC. CHAR. — Body subcylindrical, tapering, surrounded upon its
middle with twenty-seven longitudinal series of scales. Snout sub-
conical and rounded. A postnasal plate and one loral. Two pairs
of parietals and four occipitals. Two series of supraoculars, of five
plates each. Lower eyelid scaly. Olivaceous-brown, provided above
with longitudinal dark brown lines or streaks, varying in number,
according to age. Beneath lighter and unicolor.
SYN. — Pygo'Jactylus gronovii, FITZ. Neue Class. Kept. 1826, 53 (non Pygodactyfus
gronocll, MERR.).— WAGL. Isis, XXI, 1828, 741 ; &, Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 160.
Pygopus striatus, SPIX, Spec. nov. Lacert. Bras. 1825, 25. Tab. xxvm, fig. 1.
Pygopus cariococca, SPIX, Spec. nov. Lacert. Bras. 1825, 26. Tab. xxvm, fig. 2.
Ophiodes striatus, WAGL. Isis, XXI, 1828, 740; &, Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830,
159.— GRAY, in Ann. Nat. Hist. II, 1839, 334.— DUM. & BIBK. Erpet. gen. V, 1839,
789. — GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 99. — GRAVENH. in Nov. Act. Nat. Cur.
XXIII, r, 1851, 379. PI. XLIV.
Blpes striatus, Cuv. Regu. Anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 65. — GRIFF. Anim. Kingd. IX,
1831, 161.
Bipes cariococca, Cov. Regn. Anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 65. — GRIFF. Anim. Kingd. IX,
1831, 161.
Bipes striatus, GRAY, Synops. Kept, in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 73.
OBSERV. — Were the nomenclature of the various plates and shields
which protect the head, more precise, we would have simply alluded
to the present species, whose history and zoological traits can easily
be traced through the authors quoted in the above synonymy. The
following description is offered, in order to render our Report as accu-
rate as circumstances will permit :
DESCR. — The head is slender and depressed, tapering towards the
snout, which is subconical, and rounded upon its periphery. The rostral
plate is large and hemidiscoid; immediately behind, are two pairs of
rhomboid internasals of moderate size ; the anterior pair is the
smallest, situated transversely upon the snout, between the nasals.
The posterior pair is contiguous laterally to the postnasal and the
loral. There is a large, odd, heptagonal frontal, contiguous anteriorly
to the internasals, laterally to the loral and first supraocular of each
series, and posteriorly to the vertex plate. The latter is the largest of
all, elongated, narrowest in front, and subhexagonal ; it is contiguous
57
226
S A U R I A.
anteriorly to the frontal, laterally to the anterior three inner supra-
oculars, and posteriorly to the inner pair of parietals, and anterior
occipital ; the latter is pentagonal, posteriorly acute-angled, and con-
tiguous to a subrhomboid postoccipital. A pair of latero-occipitals of
considerable development is observed, one on each side of the anterior
and posterior occipitals, contiguous anteriorly with both parietals, and
laterally with the temporal shields. The parietals are subquadrangu-
lar, longer than broad, and nearly equal in size ; the inner pair is
contiguous by its longest sides to the vertex plate, outer parietal, and
latero-occipital ; anteriorly to a portion of the second and third inner
supraoculars, and posteriorly to the anterior occipital ; the outer
pair is limited in front by the inner parietal, sideways by the latero-
occipital and first and second inner supraoculars, and posteriorly by
the temporal shields. The inner series of supraoculars are large ;
the outer series of moderate development. There are no supraciliaries,
the outer supraoculars occupying their place. The nasal is surrounded
anteriorly by the rostral, superiorly by the first internasal, inferiorly
by the first labial, and posteriorly by the postnasal, which is rhomboid.
The loral is well developed, somewhat bent, though angular, extend-
ing slightly to the upper surface of the head. The rim of the orbit is
formed above by the series of outer supraoculars, and below by a
series of nine small plates, interrupted beneath the pupil by the fifth
labial, which enters into the orbital chain, leaving five infraorbitals
behind, and four in front. The posterior five infraorbitals constitute
a chain extending from the fifth labial to the posterior inner supraocu-
lar, whilst the anterior four extend from the fifth labial to the ante-
rior inner supraocular. The anterior infraorbital is much larger than
the rest, and is called by some writers anteorbital ; it truly occupies,
with the second plate of the same series, the anterior rim of the orbit.
The four anterior upper labials diminish in size posteriorly; the fourth
being smaller than the fifth; the following, three in number, are large,
resembling in shape and size the temporal shields. The symphyseal
is hemidiscoid, one half smaller than the rostral. There are eight sub-
quadrangular lower labials, narrow in front, elongated behind. A series
of seven infralabials are here observed between the series just alluded
to and the mental shields, properly so called, of which there are four
pair and an odd one in front, contiguous to the symphyseal, whilst the
others diverge ; the anterior pair alone being contiguous upon the
middle line of the chin.
TILIQUA RUFESCENS. 227
Twenty-seven longitudinal series of scales may be counted across
the middle region of the body, slightly larger on the back than on the
sides and belly.
The largest specimen before us measures about fifteen inches, and
exhibits anteriorly four, and posteriorly eight, brown lines or streaks
along the upper region of the back and tail. In the young, these lines
are more numerous, running likewise on the sides. The sides of the
head are spotted with brown and white ; the brown appearing at dis-
tance, as though there were vertical lines or bars across the face.
Loc. — Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
GENUS TILIQUA, GRAY.
GEN. CHAR. — Body subfusiform, stoutish, protected by keeled scales.
Head subquadrangulo-pyramidal. Nostril in one plate, oblong,
lateral ; one pair of supranasals. Parietuls and middle occipital
distinct. Lower eyelid scaly. Auricular aperture denticulated in
front. Maxillary teeth compressed. Palate toothed. Limbs four,
stout, rather distant; five fingers and five toes, compressed, unequal,
clawed. Subdigital plates smooth. Palms and soles granular. Tail
subcylindrical, tapering; scales beneath wide.
SYN.— Tillqua, GRAY, in Zool. Journ. Ill, 1827, 227; Ann. Nat. Hist II, 1839,
288 ; &, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 108.— FITZ. Neue Class. Kept. 1826, 23.
Eutropis, FITZ. Syst. Kept. 1843, 22.
OBSERV. — A genus which has undergone various modifications since
first proposed. Not being well understood when established, species
of most diversified structure were placed in it by several authors. It
is one of those that need be carefully examined, and critically com-
pared to Euprepis, and other congeners. We regret not having the
means of going any further into its study.
TILIQUA RUFESCENS, Gray.
SPEC. CHAR. — Nasal plates lateral ; supranasals nearly contiguous or
228
S A U R I A.
separated. Rostral well developed, hemidiscoid. Auricular aper-
ture moderate, subovate, provided anteriorly with small projecting
scales. Dorsal scales tricarinated. Preanal scales equal. Tail
depressed at the base, rounded, and tapering into a point poste-
riorly, and longer than the body and head together. Dark-brown
above, with a series of black spots. A lateral dark streak, with a
light fillet above and below. Beneath light brown, with greyish
lines.
SYN. — Lacerta rufescens, SHAW, Gen. Zool. Ill, I, 1802, 285.
Scincus rufescens, MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 71. — Cuv. Regn. Anim. 2d ed.
II, 1829, 62.— GRIFF. Cuv. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 157.
Scincus rnultifasciatus, KUHL, Beitr. Zool. &c. 1820, 12.
Mabouya multicarinata, FlTZ. Neuo Class. Kept. 1826, 52.
Etiprepis rnultifasciatus, WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 162.
Eumeces rufescens, WIEGM. Herp. Mex. I, 183-1, 36.
Tiliqua carinata, GRAY, in Zool. Journ. Ill, 1827, 227 ; &, Ann. Nat. Hist. II,
1839, 289.
Tiliqua affinis, GRAY, in Ann. Nat. Hist. II, 1839, 289.
Eitprepes sebae, DUM. & BIER. Erp6t. gen. V, 1839, 692.
Tiliqua rufescens, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 109.
Indian Tiliqua, GRAY, Synops. Kept, in Gri/. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 68.
OBSERV. — We find in the collection submitted to our examination
but one specimen of this species, measuring about two inches in length,
from the apex of the snout to the tip of the tail : hence, quite imma-
ture. We are satisfied, however, as to its identity.
The coloration, according to accounts, varies within considerable
limits. In the specimen before us, the dorsal region and upper surface
of the tail are of a dark brown hue. A lateral darker streak extends
from the eye to the base of the tail, being margined above and below
by a light line reduced to a series of crowded light spots. Along the
uppermost of these lines may be observed a series of dark spots extend-
ing from the head to the base of the tail. The lateral dark streak
may be followed in advance of the eye to the nostril under the shape
of a narrow band. The limbs above are brown, speckled with whitish
or yellowish. The lower part of the sides, beneath the lower light line,
is brown also, whilst the inferior surface assumes quite a light brown
tint ; the throat and belly exhibiting greyish lines along each row of
scales ; the limbs and tail being unicolor.
LOG. — Mangsi Island, Philippine Group.
EUPREPIS VENUSTUS. 229
GENUS EUPREPIS, WAGL.
GEN. CHAR. — Body subfusifbrm, protected by keeled scales. Head
subconical and depressed. Nostril in one plate ; one pair of supra-
nasals. Parietals separated, contiguous, or united into one plate.
Middle occipital distinct, or combined with the latero-occipitals ; a
pair of postoccipitals. Lower eyelid with a transparent disk. Auri-
cular aperture more or less conspicuously denticulated or lobulated in
front. Maxillary teeth compressed and truncated. Palate toothed.
Limbs four, strong ; five fingers and five toes, compressed, unequal,
clawed. Subdigital plates smooth. Palms and soles tubercular.
Tail subconical and tapering.
is, WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Atnph. 1830, 161.— WIEGM. Herp. Mex. I,
1834, 11.— DUM. & BIBR. Erp6t. g<§n. V, 1839, 663.— GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus.
1845, 110.— DUM. & A. DUM. Catal. meth. Kept. Mus. d'hist. nat. ii, 1851, 158.
OBSERV. — The elements which constitute this genus are, as yet,
more or less intermingled with those arranged under the head of Tili-
qua, requiring a thorough and critical study : a task we could not un-
dertake for want of sufficient materials at our command. Should it
also become necessary to separate generically Euprepis delandii, E. bel-
cheri, E. gravenJiorsti, and E. venustus, the above diagnosis must then
be partially modified, so as to read: "parietal plates separated; middle
occipital, distinct." Then also the portion of the diagnosis of Rachites
or Ghionia, whichever of these names be chosen for the species just
alluded to, will read : " parietal plates united into one ; middle occi-
pital combined with the latero-occipitals." The remaining generic
characters may likewise have to be further subdivided. Thus, we
would have a genus analogous to the one proposed further on, under
the appellation of Emoa, embracing such Eumeces in which a similar
union of the cephalic plates is observed.
EUPREPIS VENUSTUS, Gird.
(Plate XXVI, figs. 1-8.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Corpore et capiie gracilibus atque depressis. Cauda pos-
tice subconica. Squamis in ires et quadraginta usque ad quinqiie et
58
UJU7BRSIT7
030 SAURIA.
quadraginta series longitudinales dispositis. Scuto praefrontali rhom-
biformi. Squamarum praeanalium externa serie reliquis mojore.
Supra spadiceo. Vitta nigra ah oculo usque ad caudae basim extensa ;
superne margine fuliginoso ornata, a regione superciliari ad tertiam
anteriorem caudae partem extendente ; inferne linea flava ab axillnm
ad inguen percur -rente. Inferiore lateris parte Iwtea, niyropunctata.
Gala albescente ; abdomine pallide fmco, unicolori.
SPEC. CHAR. — Body and head slender and depressed. Tail subconical
posteriorly. Forty-three to forty-five longitudinal series of scales.
Prefrontal plate lozenge-shaped. External row of preanal scales
larger than the rest. Back chestnut-brown. A fuliginous line
extending from the supraciliary region to the anterior third of the
tail. A black streak from the eye to the base of the tail. A yellow
line from the axilla to the groin. Lower portion of the flanks yellow,
speckled with black. Throat whitish. Abdomen light brown, uni-
color.
SYN. — Euprepis venustus, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
Chionia venusta, GKD. MSS.
OBSERV. — This species is very closely allied to E. delalandii, E. bel-
cJieri, and E. gravenliorsti, with which it might constitute a generic
group, characterized by the peculiar conformation of some of the
cephalic plates. Whenever such a classification should be deemed
advisable, there are two names already framed and claiming admit-
tance : Bacliites is the first on the list, and, if not admissible, Chionia
will come next.*
Our E. venustus differs from E. delalandii by the form of the prefron-
tal (internasal) plate, which is lozenge-shaped, instead of hemidiscoid,
the number of longitudinal series of scales, which are forty-three or
forty-five, instead of forty-seven or forty-nine, and by the preanal scales,
the exterior row being larger than the preceding rows, and which are
all equal in E. delalandii.
DESCR. — The head and body are very much" depressed ; the latter
broader than deep, whilst the former is broad across the occipital
* John Edward Gray, in the Catalogue of the Lizards in the British Museum, has
already pointed out this group under the appellation of Chioninia, but as it seems not as
a genus or a subgenus.
ETJPREPIS VENUSTUS. 231
region, tapering considerably towards the snout, which is subconical.
The tail, somewhat depressed at the base, is subconical upon the rest
of its length, and tapers into a point. The fore limbs, when bent for-
wards, will reach the anterior rim of the orbit with their longest
finger. The only specimen before us measures four inches and a
quarter, two inches belonging to the head and body combined, the
rest to the tail. The species attains larger dimensions, for, a colored
sketch, made from life in October, 1838, represents an individual more
than six inches in total length.
According to our nomenclature, the cephalic plates are : two supra-
nasals, contiguous ; a prefrontal, lozenge-shaped ; two subrhomboid
postfrontals ; a vertex plate, pentagonal, elongated, and narrowest
posteriorly ; a parietal, subhexagonal, narrowest anteriorly ; an occi-
pital, large, and crescent-shaped ; two small postoccipitals ; five tem-
poral shields, scale-like, and subrhomboid ; one nasal ; one postnasal ;
two lorals ; five supraoculars, and five supraciliaries.
The rostral is prominently convex, elevated, extending somewhat
to the upper surface of the snout. The internasals are well developed,
elongated, broadest anteriorly, and contiguous exteriorly to the nasal
and postnasal. The prefrontal, as already observed, is lozenge-shaped,
contiguous anteriorly to the internasals, laterally to the first loral, and
posteriorly to the postfrontals. The second and third supraoculars
are the largest of the series ; the fifth is very small, and contiguous,
together with the fourth and last postorbital, to the angle of the
occipital. The temporal shields constitute two series; the uppermost,
composed of three shields, extends between the sixth labial and the
postoccipital, whilst the lowermost, composed of two shields only,
extends from the seventh labial to the scales of the neck. The post-
nasals are very small, and situated between the first labial beneath,
the anterior loral behind, the internasal above, and nasal in front. The
posterior or second loral is quite large, and is the plate which enters
elsewhere into the orbit, and then called anteorbital or foremost infra-
orbital.
The dorsal scales are conspicuously carinated, whilst on the sides,
the keels become quite obsolete, and along the abdomen, they appear
perfectly smooth. The caudal scales are smooth, and considerably
larger than around the body. On the upper aspect of the limbs, the
scales are likewise keeled, and smooth or nearly so beneath.
The upper surface of the head and the dorsal region are chestnut-
232 SAURIA.
brown. A fuliginous band may be seen extending from the supracili-
ary region along the upper portion of the flanks to a certain distance
on the tail, where it tapers into a point ; over the eye and along the
canthus rostralis, it is reduced to a whitish fillet. Immediately beneath
that band is a blackish streak, which may be traced from the nostril
across the eye, over the auricular aperture, to the origin of the tail,
broadest along the middle of the flanks. From the axilla to the groin, is
a yellowish line margining the dark streak just alluded to. The lower
portion of the sides is yellow or yellowish-brown, speckled with black ;
the speckles extending beyond the middle of the length of the tail, as
a continuation of the dark streak of the sides. The legs are brown,
with darker spots interspersed. The lips are yellowish, the throat
whitish, obscurely lineolated on the sides, whilst the abdomen is dull
yellow or brownish, unicolor.
Loc. — San Jago, Cape de Verde Islands, where it is said to be "pretty
common."
Plate XXVI, fig. 1, represents Euprei/is venustus, size of life.
Fig. 2, the head seen from above ;
Fig. 3, a profile ; and,
Fig. 4, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 5, the left hand from above ;
Fig. 6, the same hand from beneath.
Fig. 7, a group of dorsal scales.
Fig. 8, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 2-8, are somewhat magnified.
GENUS CYCLODUS, WAGL.
GEN. CHAR. — Body subfusiform, thickish, elongated, depressed, late-
rally rounded off. Tail subconical and tapering. Scales large, bony;
above slightly rugose, with obscure central grooves ; beneath also
obscurely grooved, and laterally smooth. Head subquadrangular,
subpyramidal, with an obtuse snout. Maxillary teeth subhemi-
spherical. Palate toothless. Tongue flattened, scaly, nicked at the
apex. Auricular aperture large, denticulated anteriorly. Eyes
surrounded by a series of small plates ; lower eyelid scaly. Nostrils
in one plate. No supranasals. One pair of parietals. Limbs four,
CYCLODUS GIGAS. 233
short ; five fingers and five toes rather short, unequal, subcylindri-
cal, simple, clawed.
SYN.— Cydodus, WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 162.— WIEGM. Herp. Mex. I,
1834, 11.— BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. g6n. V, 1839, 747.— GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus.
1845, 103. — DUM. & A. BUM. Catal. meth. Kept. Mus. d'hist. nat. ii, 1851, 178.
OBSERV. — The peculiar shape of the teeth is a character which will
readily distinguish this genus from its congeners, to which it is allied
by the conformation of the cephalic plates. Its large and bony scales
constitute another feature not less characteristic, as also the shortness
of its fingers and toes.
CYCLODDS GIGAS, Gray.
SPEC. CHAR. — Auricular aperture provided anteriorly with one series
of projecting scales. A groove over the upper labials. Prefrontal
plate broader than long. Vertex plate elongated, lanceolated, pos-
teriorly acute. Four elongated temporal shields behind the eye.
Yellowish-brown, transversely banded above with black. A post-
orbital black streak extending sometimes to the neck. Beneath
unicolor.
SYN. — Scincus gigas, BODD. in Nov. Act. nat. cur. VII, 1781, 5. — SCHN. Hist. Amph.
II, 1801, 202.— DAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. IV, 1802, 244.— MERE. Tent. Syst. Amph.
1820, 73.— BOIE, Erpet. Java, MS.
Lacerta scincoides, SHAW, in White, Journ. Voy. N. S. Wales, 1790, 242, PI. xxx;
&, Nat. Misc. V, 1794, PI. CLXXIX.
Scincus crotaphomelas, LACEP. in Ann. Mus. d'hist. nat. IV, 1804, 192 &209.— Cuv.
Itegn. Anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 63.
Scincus scincoides, Cuv. Regn. Anim. II, 1817, 54 ; &, 2d ed. II, 1829, 63.— GRIFF.
Cuv. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 158.
Scincus tuberculalm, MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 73.
Tiliqua gigas, FITZ. Neue Class. Kept. 1826, 52.
Tiliqua scincoides, FITZ. Neue Class. Kept. 1826, 52.
Cydodus flavigularis, WAGL. Descr. & Icon. Arnph. 1833, PI. VI ; &, Naturl. Syst.
Amph. 1830, 162.— WIEGM. Herp. Mexic. I, 1834, 11.
Tiliqua whitii, GRAY, Synops.* Kept, in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 67; &, Ann.
Nat. Hist. II, 1839, 288.
Cydodus boddaertii, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gcSn. V, 1839, 752.
Cyclodus gigas, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 103.
Australasian galliwasp, SHAW, Gen. Zool. Ill, i, 1802, 288 & 289, PI. LXXXI, fig. 2.
59
234 s A tf R i A.
Le scinque ordinaire de la Nouvelle Hollande, BAUD. Hist. Nat. Kept. IV, 1802, 236.
Keneux de Boddaert, COCT. Tab. synopt. Seine. (Compt. Rend. Acad. des Sc. IV,
1837.)
OBSERV. — We find but one specimen of this species in the collection
of the Exploring Expedition : a prepared skin of a female individual,
measuring twenty inches and a half from the apex of the snout to the
tip of the tail. It is the largest species of the Seine family, and one,
therefore, often noticed by travellers and naturalists.
DESCR. — The tail measures about seven inches, and the head two
and a half inches. There are thirty-eight longitudinal series of scales
around the body. The dorsal and abdominal scales exhibit obscure
central grooves, whilst on the sides they are nearly smooth. The
lateral scales are smaller than the rest, disposed upon series converg-
ing towards the back.
The auricular aperture is moderate, oblong, obliquely situated
beneath and behind the temples, anteriorly provided with one series
of projecting scales, giving that margin a denticulated aspect. The
inferior rim of the orbit is composed of seven small, subquadrangular
plates, somewhat larger anteriorly than posteriorly. The supracili-
aries are six in number, polygonal or subrhomboid ; the second and
third, by far the largest : they complete the rim of the orbit. There
are four supraoculars ; the anterior is the smallest, and the second
the largest. The nasal is rhomboid, with the nostril in its middle.
We observe a subquadrangular postnasal, and a subtrapezoid loral.
There are no supranasals. The odd prefrontal, large and lozenge-
shaped, somewhat broader than long, is contiguous to the rostral by
its anterior angle. The nasals nearly approximate upon the middle
line of the snout. Laterally, the prefrontal meets the postnasal, it
being limited posteriorly by the postfrontals. The latter are rhomboid,
contiguous laterally to the postnasal and the loral, and posteriorly to
the first and second supraoculars and the vertex plate. The vertex
plate itself is elongated, subcordate, or sublanceolated, obtusely hexa-
gonal, with its acute angle directed backwards, where it is limited by
a pair of rhomboid parietals. The latter are contiguous sideways to
the third, fourth, and fifth supraoculars, and behind to the odd
occipital and latero-occipitals. The middle or odd occipital is elon-
gated, obscurely hexagonal, tapering posteriorly, with its sides sub-
concave; anteriorly, as already observed, it is contiguous to the parie-
CYCLODINA. 235
tals, sideways to the latero-occipitals, and posteriorly to the occipital
shields. The latero-occipitals are the largest cephalic plates, anteriorly
contiguous to the fifth and sixth supraoculars, sideways to the upper
temporal shield, and behind to the occipital shields. The latter are
scale-like, somewhat larger than the scales of the upper region of the
neck, and irregular in shape, especially the anterior cross series. Four
elongated, temporal shields extend from the orbital ring to about
midway towards the auricular aperture. The posterior upper labial,
the seventh in the series, is still larger than the temporal shields just
alluded to, and under which it partly lies. The remaining upper
labials are subquadrangular, subequal, a little deeper than long, and
smallest anteriorly. The rostral itself is moderate and subpyramidal.
The symphyseal is moderate also, followed on either side by ten lower
labials, largest upon the middle of the series ; the anterior one being
the smallest, very narrow and elevated. The mental shields are
broadly developed : we observe an anterior odd one and three diverg-
ing pairs, the first pair alone being contiguous upon the medial line
of the chin.
. — Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
GENUS CYCLODINA, GIRARD.
CHAR. GEN. — Corpore elongate, gracili, subquadrangulari, depresso;
squamis magnis et rugosis, sub ejndermide plana, cooperto. Capite
parvo, depresso, antice obtuso, Nare in scuto uno ; scutis suprana-
salibus nullis ; parietalibus duobus. Dentibus maxillaribus conicis ;
palatinis nullis. Lingua plana, squamosa, ad extremitatem emargi-
nata. Palpebra inferiori squamosa. Apertura auditoria simplici.
Membris quatuor, debilibus, valde distaniibus. Digitis utriusque meni'
bri quinque, brevioribus, subcylindricis, et uncinatis; subtus laevibus,
transverse scutellatis ; palmis plant isque crasse granulosis vel subtil'
berculatis. Cauda modica.
CHAR. — Body elongated, slender, subquadrangular, depressed;
covered with large rugose scales, under a smooth epidermis. Head
small, depressed, anteriorly obtuse. Nostril in one plate; no supra-
nasals ; a pair of parietals. Maxillary teeth conical. Palate tooth-
less. Tongue flat, scaly, nicked at the extremity. Lower eyelid
236 s A u R i A.
scaly. Auricular aperture simple. Limbs four, weak, far apart ;
five fingers and five toes, rather short, subcylindrical, and clawed ;
their under surface transversely plated, smooth. Palms and soles
coarsely granular or subtubercular. Tail moderate.
SYN. — Cyclodina, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
OBSERV. — The species which constitute the present genus may truly
be termed diminutive Cyclodi, for, their affinities with the latter are
most intimate. They differ therefrom chiefly by the subquadrangular
shape of their body, their conical teeth, their auricular aperture, simple,
instead of being denticulated anteriorly. Finally, the number of lon-
gitudinal series of scales around the body are much less numerous than
in Cydodus, as understood by John Edward Gray, that is, not includ-
ing Cyclodiis casuarinae.
It appears to us that Lygosoma temmincldi, DUM. & BIBR. (Erpe"t. gen.
V, 1839, 727), will prove congeneric with the species described below.
CYCLODINA AENEA, Grd.
(Plate XXVI, figs. 9-16.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Corpore longiusculo, viginti sex seriebus squamarum
longitudinalibus cooperto. Rostra brevi. Scutorum serie suborbitali
Integra ; scutis labialibus in orbitam non productis. Apertura audi-
toria parva. Scutellis praeanalibus duabus medianis quam reliquis
major ibus. Membris bene parvis. Galore auratili viridescente ; dorso
nigro punctato ; vitta obscure spadicea vel subnigra, superne albo
marginata, in latere superiori sita. Lateribus dlbo nigroque punc-
tatis. Gula et mento nigro punctatis. Abdomine pallide, fulvo, uni-
colori.
SPEC. CHAR. — Body rather long, protected by twenty-six longitudinal
series of scales. Snout short. Suborbital chain of plates complete ;
no labials entering into the orbit. Auricular aperture small. Two
, middle preanal scales larger than the rest. Limbs quite small.
Golden-green ; back speckled with black. A dark chestnut or
blackish streak, obscurely white-lined above, runs along the upper
portion of the flank. Sides speckled with white and black. Under
CYCLODINA AENEA. 237
surface of head and throat speckled with black. Abdomen light
yellowish, unicolor.
SYN. — Cydodina aenea, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
DESCR. — The body though elongated when compared to its con-
geners, the general aspect of this species is rather abbreviated. This
must be owing to its short and small head, as well as to its short
tail. The latter, however, is reproduced, so that after all the entire
physiognomy may be of a more graceful and elongated type.
The rostral plate is elevated, subconical, extending somewhat to
the upper surface of the snout, keeping the nasals widely apart by its
contiguity to the prefrontal. The nasals themselves are lateral. The
prefrontal is subrhomboid, broader than long, and contiguous late-
rally to the nasal and postnasal, and posteriorly to the vertex plate,
thus preventing the postfrontals coming into contiguity upon the
middle line of the head. The postfrontals themselves are small,
extending somewhat to the loral region. The vertex plate is large
and elongated, anteriorly angular, posteriorly tapering and spear-
shaped, slightly overlapping the parietals. The latter are well deve-
loped, receiving posteriorly the angular and broad extremity of the
middle occipital, which is shaped like the vertex plate, being taper-
ing and spear-shaped posteriorly. The latero-occipitals are the
largest of the cephalic plates, inclosing posteriorly the middle occi-
pital, being contiguous anteriorly to the parietals, slightly to the
last supraocular and two postorbitals ; laterally, it is lined by the
upper temporal shield, and posteriorly by the scales of the neck or a
pair of postoccipitals ; the latter not always distinct from the adjoining
scales of the neck. The supraoculars are four in number ; the ante-
rior one smallest ; the second and third largest. The supraciliaries
are proportionally well developed, subquadrangular, subequal, seven
in number. The nasals are subrhomboid, longer than deep, ob-
liquely situated upon the sides of the muzzle. The postnasal and
loral, both, are deeper than long, likewise obliquely inclined forwards,
and owing their shape to the abbreviation of the entire snout. Of the
three anteorbitals, the upper and lower are small and subequal, whilst
the middle one is larger, entering but partially into the orbit. There
is a complete chain of small suborbitals ; hence the labials not coming
into the orbit ; seven of them may be counted forming an open curve
from the lower anteorbital to the posterior supraciliary ; the four first
smallest, and truly suborbitals ; the three last being postorbitals by
60
238 SAURIA.
their situation. Immediately in advance of the latter, are three or
four more subequal, small plates, constituting an inner series of post-
orbitals. There are four temporal shields : an upper elongated one,
and three lower, subrhomboid, smaller than the former. The auricular
aperture is small, subelliptical, simple : the tympanum being deeply
seated. The upper labials are well developed, and seven in number ;
the five anterior, subquadrangular and subequal ; the two posterior,
largest and subrhomboid. The symphyseal is hemidiscoid, and larger
than the rostral. The lower labials, of which five may be counted on
either side, are narrow and elongated ; the first and last much smaller
than the rest. The anterior odd mental shield is transversely elon-
gated ; the first pair being contiguous, and smaller than the second
pair, which is the largest, and diverges as well as the third and last
pair.
The scales are proportionally large, for we count but twenty-six
longitudinal series around the body. Of these, six belong to the dorsal
region, properly so called; six also to the abdominal region, and seven
to each side. As usual, the lateral scales are the smallest ; the dorsal
and abdominal ones, on the other hand, are subequal. The two middle
preanal scales are somewhat larger than the rest. The caudal scales
are larger than those of the body, subequal, except the inferior middle
series, which is more develop9d transversely.
The limbs are short and weak, as well as the fingers and toes ; the
anterior pair extends about to the third of the distance towards the
groins, and the posterior pair somewhat beyond the third of the dis-
tance towards the axillae : therefore, the two pairs do not meet when
directed towards one another. When the anterior pair is brought for-
wards alongside the neck, the longest finger stretches beyond the ear,
without, however, reaching the angle of the mouth. The palms and
soles are coarsely tubercular, and the inferior aspect of the fingers pro-
tected by transverse, well-developed, smooth plates. The third arid
fourth fingers are nearly equal ; the fourth toe is much the longest.
The nails are short, compressed, acerated, and slightly curved.
The upper region is golden-green ; the back and tail speckled with
elongated small black spots, irregularly or rather obscurely disposed
upon longitudinal series. A dark chestnut or black streak, obsoletely
white-lined above, occupies each flank, from the ear to the base of the
tail. The lower half of the sides is greyish, speckled with elongated,
white and black spots. The upper aspect of the limbs, digits included,
HOMBRONIA. 239
and tail, is similarly black and white speckled. The throat and head
beneath are densely speckled with black ; the abdomen and under
surface of the tail being unicolor, of a light yellowish hue. The labials
exhibiting a saffron reflect.
Loc. — Bay of Islands, New Zealand. Brought to the exploring party
on the 29th of February, 1840, when a colored sketch from life was
made by Mr. Drayton.
Plate XXVI, fig. 9, represents Cydodina aenea, size of life,
Fig. 10, the upper surface of the head ;
Fig. 11, a profile; and,
Fig. 12, an under view of the same region,
Fig. 13, the left hand from above ;
Fig. 14, the same hand from beneath.
Fig. 15, a group of dorsal scales ;
Fig. 16, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 10-16 are somewhat magnified.
GENUS HOMBRONIA, GIRARD.
CHAR. GEN. — Corpore subtetragonali et depresso; squamis modicls et
atriatis cooperto, qiiarum duae praeanales sunt reliquis majores.
Capite depresso, subtriangulari. Scittis parietalibus duobus ; scuto
occipitali mediano sejuncto ; latero-occipitalibus duobus. Nare in
sciito uno ; scuds supranasalibus nullis. Dentibus maxillaribm sub-
conicis ; palatirds nullis. Palpebra infer tori disco translucido prae-
dita. Apert ura auditor ia simplici ; tympa.no sat prof unde sito. Mem-
bris debilibus, valde distantibus ; in unoquoque membro quinque digitis
inaequalibus, subtus scutellis transversis et carinatis praeditis ; palmin
et plantis grantilosis. Cauda longa, sat robusta, subcylindrica,
squamis subaequalibus cooperta.
GEN. CHAR. — Body subtetragonat and depressed, protected by mode-
rate and striated scales ; the two preanal ones larger than the rest.
Head depressed, subtriangular. Two parietal plates. A middle occi-
pital, and two latero-occipitals. Nostril in one plate ; no supra-
nasals. Maxillary teeth subconical. Palate toothless. Lower eye-
lid with a transparent disk. Auricular aperture simple ; tympanum
rather deeply seated. Limbs weak, far apart ; five fingers and five
240 SAURIA.
toes, unequal, with transverse, carinated plates beneath ; palms and
soles granular. Tail long, stoutish, and subcylindrical, with subequal
scales.
SYN. — Hombronia, GRD. ia Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
OBSERV. — The genus which we here establish, is to include some
small Saurians, Lygosoms-like in their general aspect, or rather dimi1-
nutive Cyclodi, to which they bear close affinities. Its representatives
appear to be confined to the Austral lands, whence the so far known
species have been obtained.
Besides the two species brought home by the Exploring Expedition,
there is a third, figured on Plate iv, fig. 1, of the Atlas accompany-
ing the " Voyage au Pole Sud et dans 1'Oceanie, sur les corvettes
1'Astrolabe et la Zelee," under the command of Captain Dumont-
d'Urville, and known as " Lygosoma crassicaudum, HOMBR. & JACQ."
(Hombronia crassicauda, GRD.). — DUM. & A. DUM. Catal. meth. Kept.
Mus. d'hist. nat. ii, 1851, 172. — From Australia.
Its very stout tail distinguishes it at once from those described below,
though apparently more allied to H. fasciolaris than to H. undo-so.. Its
thick and obtuse snout is quite peculiar to it, enabling us at once to
distinguish it from its congeners.
1. HOMBRONIA UNDOSA, Grd.
(Plate XXVII, figs. 17-24.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Squamarum. octo et viyinti seriebus longitudinaUbus.
Scuto rostrali elevato, eubconico ; sculis nasalibus et postfrontalibus
separatis. Disco palpebrae inferioris translucido subcentrali. Apertura
auditoria valde parva. Squamis caudalibus quam dorsualibus et abdo-
minaUbus midto majoribus. Cauda longa. Supra fasca; laleribus
vitta obsoleta, obscure badia et undulata, ornati-s : infra clariori, uni-
colori.
SPEC. CHAR. — Twenty-eight longitudinal series of scales. Eostral
plate elevated, subconical. Nasals and postfrontals separated.
Transparent disk of lower eyelid subcentral. Auricular aperture
very small. Caudal scales much larger than the dorsal and abdo-
minal ones. Tail long. Brown above; sides with an obsolete, undu-
lating streak of deep chestnut; beneath lighter, unicolor.
HOMBROXIA UXDOSA. 241
N. — Bumbronia undosa, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
DESCR. — A specimen, four inches and three-fourths in total length,
gives about two inches to the head and body, making the tail longer
than the two former regions combined. The body and neck are sub-
quadrangular and depressed ; the body being broader than deep, and
the neck deeper than broad. The head is depressed also, and sub-
quadrangularly pyramidal. The tail is subconical, stoutish, tapering.
The limbs are moderate; the anterior pair, when bent forwards, stretch-
ing a little beyond the auricular aperture.
The rostral plate is somewhat elevated, and subconical. The nasals,
subtrapezoid in shape, are almost entirely lateral, giving an opportu-
nity to the odd, subrhomboid prefrontal to come into contact with the
rostral, and to occupy exclusively the internasal space. The postfrontals,
individually smaller than the prefrontal, and like it subrhomboid, are
likewise separated from each other by the anterior obtuse angle of the
vertex plate. The latter is elongated, subpentagonal, lanceolated,
its posterior acute angle engaging between the parietals, which are
contiguous upon their middle and subconvex margin. The middle occi-
pital is moderate, spear-shaped, equally engaged between the parietals
in front and the latero-occipitals behind, so as to be entirely inclosed
by these two pairs of plates. A small pair of postoccipitals may still
be recognized from amongst the adjoining scales, contiguous upon the
middle line of the occiput, hence diverging sideways, where they meet
an elongated and moderate temporal shield, which extends to the orbi-
tal chain, adjoining, by its upper edge, the latero-occipital, and beneath
a few subrhomboid, inferior temporal shields. There are five supra-
oculars ; the second and third largest ; the first nearly equal to the
fourth ; the fifth being the smallest ; the latter is contiguous to the
latero-occipital plate, together with a portion of the fourth ; the rest
of the fourth and the third altogether, are contiguous to the concave
margin of the parietal, whose anterior angle manages to thrust itself
as far as the second supraocular. The first and second supraoculars
are contiguous to the vertex plate, which sends an angular projection
to the outer series of supraoculars or supraciliaries, thus preventing
the first supraocular to come into contact with the postfrontal. The
supraciliaries are eight or nine in number, subquadrangular in shape,
and diminishing in size posteriorly, and extend from the postfrontal
to the posterior or fifth supraocular. A narrow, elevated postuasal
61
242 s A u R i A.
extends, obliquely inclined forwards, from the second upper labial to
the lateral angle of the prefrontal, being contiguous behind to the
ppstfrontal and the loral. The latter is contiguous above to the post-
frontal and anterior supraciliary, below to the second upper labial,
and posteriorly to a quadrangular anteorbital, a direct continuation of
the infraorbital chain, and placed immediately beneath the anterior
supraciliary. The transparent disk of the lower eyelid is elliptical
and well developed. The upper labials are seven on either side ; the
fifth entering into the orbital chain, beneath the transparent space of
the eyelid; the first is long and narrow, with the nasal resting entirely
upon it ; the four following are subquadrangular, increasing somewhat
in size backwards; the sixth and seventh are subrhomboid. The sym-
physeal plate, broader than the rostral, is hemidiscoid or semilunate.
The lower labials are very narrow and long, five on either side. The
mental shields are broadly developed, three pairs and an odd one ;
the shields of the anterior pair contiguous; the others diverging.
The scales are striated under the epidermis, which is smooth ; they
are larger upon the abdomen than on the back, smallest upon the
sides, and disposed upon twenty-eight longitudinal series, across the
middle of the body; the two middle dorsal series are larger than the
adjoining series, and a shallow groove may be seen between them.
The caudal scales are conspicuously larger than the dorsal and abdo-
minal ones.
The upper regions are brown, unicolor along the dorsal region, with
an obsolete chestnut band composed of a series of small curves, convex
backwards, situated along the upper portion of the flanks, from the
upper edge of the orbit to a certain distance along the tail, and beneath
it, transverse irregular fasciae or spots of the same chestnut hue. The
inferior regions are of a very light brown, unicolor.
LOG. — Bay of Islands, New Zealand.
Plate XXVII, fig. 17, represents Hombronia undosa, size of life.
Fig. 18, the head, viewed from above ;
Fig. 19, a profile view ; and, — fig. 20, an under view of the same.
Fig, 21. the left hand, from above; — fig. 22, the same, from below.
Fig. 23, a group of dorsal scales.
Fig. 24, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 18-24, are somewhat magnified.
HOMBRONIA FASCIOLARIS. £43
2. HOMBRONIA FASCIOLARIS, Grd.
(Plate XXVII, figs. 25-32.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Seriebus squamarum longitudinalibus sex et viginti. Scuto
rostrall depresso, Jiemidlscoide ; sculis nasaHbus xalde distantibus,
postfrontalibus fere contiguis. Disco pellucido palpebrae inferioris
subcentrali. Apertura audiforia maxima. Squamis caudalibus et
dorsualibus subaequalibus. Cauda longissima. Colore olivaceo-viridi ;
dorso punctate ; later ib us superne vitta obscura ornatis, inferne aeque
ac abdomine cinereo lineolatls.
SPEC. CHAR. — Twenty-six longitudinal series of «cales. Rostral plate
low, hemidiscoid. Xasals wide apart. Postfrontals nearly conti-
guous. Transparent disk of lower eyelid subcentral. Auricular
aperture very large. Dorsal and caudal scales subequal. Tail very
long. Greenish-olive ; back speckled ; upper part of sides with a
dark streak ; lower part and belly lineolated with greyish.
ST.V. — Homlronia faseiolaris, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Soi. Philad. November,
1857.
DESCR. — Compared to the preceding one, this species is of a much
more slender appearance : the tail being proportionally much longer,
since it measures three inches, whereas the body and head combined
do not quite give an inch and three-fourths. The body is obtusely
four-sided, and much more depressed, broader than deep, and so is the
neck also. The tail itself is subconical, deeper than broad, and taper-
ing into a more attenuated point. The head is a good deal shorter,
and the auricular aperture much larger. The limbs are very slender,
and not so far apart; the anterior pair, in being brought forwards, ex-
tends as far as the angles of the mouth, owing to its shorter neck.
The rostral plate is quite low and hemidiscoid. The nasals, sub-
trapezoid in shape, are mostly lateral ; their anterior angle showing
slightly in an upper view of the head: they are, however, widely kept
apart by the odd, subrhomboid prefrontal, which is contiguous to the
rostral, as in the former species. The postfrontals, smaller than the
prefrontal, and irregularly rhomboid, approximate more closely toge-
244 s A u R i A.
ther, though not quite contiguous, since the anterior angle of the
vertex plate meets the prefrontal. The vertex plate itself is elon-
gated, lanceolated, very acute posteriorly, where it engages but slightly
between the parietals. The odd occipital is a sublanceolated lozenge,
entirely inclosed in front by the parietals, and behind by the latero-oc-
cipitals. The postoccipitals are subrhomboid, scale-like, as well as the
temporal shields, of which three or four may be counted on either side.
The supraoculars are likewise five in number ; the second largest ; the
fifth very small, and contiguous to the lateral-occipital ; a portion of
the second, the third and fourth entirely, meet the parietal ; the first
and second are contiguous to the vertex plate, and the first, moreover,
sends an acute angle to the postfrontals. The transparent disk of the
lower eyelid is subcircular, of moderate development. Seven labials
on either side may be observed ; the fifth interrupting the infraorbital
chain ; the five anterior are subquadrangular, increasing somewhat in
size backwards ; the sixth and seventh are subrhomboid, resembling
the temporal shields. The symphyseal is a little smaller than the
rostral, and hemidiscoid. The lower labials, smaller than the upper,
are six on either side ; the first and sixth smallest. There are three
pairs of broad mental shields, and an odd one in front ; the anterior
pair is contiguous upon the middle edge ; the others are diverging.
The scales are disposed upon twenty-six longitudinal series across
the middle of the body. The dorsal and caudal ones are subequal,
and somewhat larger than on the sides. The caudal scales are slightly
larger than those on the body, similar aspects being compared.
The dorsal region, head, and tail above are brownish-olive ; the back
speckled with black. A dark streak extends along the upper portion
of the flanks, from the orbit to almost the very tip of the tail, some-
what obsolete along the latter region; it may also be traced, narrower,
to the nostril in advance of the eye ; along the flanks it is margined
with a lighter fillet. The lower half of the sides and belly are light
greenish-olive ; the sides somewhat speckled or else lineolated, as well
as beneath, with greyish : there being one of these lines between each
row of scales. In the young, there is a conspicuous light line from
the ear to the groin, margining the lower edge of the lateral dark
streak. The upper light line is also more conspicuous than in the
adult. Beneath the inferior light line, is another narrow dark streak.
LOG. — Bay of Islands, New Zealand.
OLIGOSOMA, 245
Plate XXVII, fig. 25, represents Eombronia fasciolaris, size of life.
Fig. 26, an upper view of the head ;
Fig. 27, the profile ; and,
Fig. 28, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 29, the left hand, from above;
Fig. 30, the same hand, from beneath.
Fig. 31, a group of dorsal scales;
Fig. 32, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 26-32, are somewhat magnified.
GENUS OLIGOSOMA, GIRARD.
CHAR. GEX. — Corpore subcylindrico, breviori, squamis modicis et striatis
cooperto ; duabus seriebus dorsualibus medianis majoribus. Capite
subquadrangulo^pyramidaH, depresso; naribus in lateribus sit is.
Scutis supranasalibus nullis ; imrietalibm separatis. Dentibus pala-
tinis nullis. Palpebra inferiori disco pellucido praedita. Apertura
auditor ia antice subdenticulata vel simplici ; tympa.no plus minusve
prof undo. Membris modicis ; diyitis utriusque membri quinque inae-
qualibus ; pahni-s plantwque subtiliter granulosis ; scutellis subdigi-
talibus transi-ersis, laevibus. Cauda longa, subcylindrica, et minu-
ente.
GEX. CHAR. — Body subcjlindrical, rather short, covered with mode-
rate and striated scales ; two middle dorsal rows largest. Head
subquadrangulo-pyramidal, depressed. Nostril lateral, in one plate ;
no supranasals. Parietals separated. Palate toothless. Lower eye-
lid with a transparent disk. Auricular aperture subdenticulated in
front, or simple ; tympanum more or less sunk. Limbs moderately
developed ; five fingers and five toes, unequal ; palms and soles
finely granulated ; subdigital plates transverse, smooth. Tail long,
subcyliudrical, and tapering.
SYX. — Oltgosoma, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
OBSERV. — This genus is intimately related to Mocoa, from which it
differs chiefly by its less-developed limbs, and the separation of the
parietal plates. The middle occipital is also distinct from either the
parietals or the latero-occipitals.
62
246
S AURIA.
1. OLIGOSOMA ZELANDICUM, Grd.
(Plate XXVII, figs. 9-16.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Body rather short, covered with thirty longitudinal
series of scales. Snout short. Auricular aperture moderate, slightly
denticulated in front. Preanal scales larger than the adjoining
series. Olivaceous-brown above, streaked with black ; sides orange-
red, with a yellow, and two black streaks. Light brown beneath,
unicolor, except under the head.
SYN. — Tiliqua moco, GRAY, MSS.
Lyijosoma moco, BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. V, 1839, 718.
T'diqua zelandlca, GRAY, in Die/. Trav. New Zeal. II, 1843, 202.
M>coa zelandica, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 82 ; &, Zool. Ereb. & Terr,
vr, 1845, 8.
Oligosoma moco, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
DESCR. — The body is comparatively short, subcylindrical, broader
than deep ; the tail being once and a half as long as the body and
head combined, subcylindrical, somewhat depressed at the base, slender,
and tapering posteriorly into a point. The head is of medium size, de-
pressed, rather broad behind, narrow upon the snout, which is subtrun-
cated. The limbs are of moderate development ; the anterior ones
will nearly reach the orbit when brought forwards alongside the neck
and head, and when similarly bent backwards, they will extend beyond
the middle of the distance towards the groins ; in bringing forwards
the posterior pair, the extremities of the toes will reach the carpus,
and the fingers the tarsus.
The nasal and postfrontal plates are separate ; the prefrontal, sub-
rhombic in shape, and broader than long, being contiguous in front
to the rostral, behind to the vertex plate, and sideways to the post-
nasal. The vertex plate itself is elongated, anteriorly broad and
angular, posteriorly spear-shaped, hence tapering. The parietals are
also elongated, subcrescentic, slightly overlapped anteriorly by the
vertex plate. The middle occipital is rather small and spear-shaped,
like the vertex plate ; its anterior angle engaging between the parie-
tals. The latero-occipitals inclose entirely the middle one, being con-
tiguous anteriorly to the parietal, the fourth supraocular, and the two
OLIGOSOMA ZELANDICUM. 247
hind postorbitals, whilst laterally, they are bordered by the upper
temporal shield, and posteriorly by the scales of the neck, the two
adjoining ones of which being somewhat larger, simulating a pair of
postoccipitals. The rostral is broad, and convex upoli the periphery
of the muzzle ; its upper margin is rounded, and extends somewhat
to the upper surface of the snout. The postnasal is deeper than long,
slightly inclining forwards. The loral is larger and longer than deep,
else subquadrangular. There are two small anteorbitals, subpyri-
form ; the lower one somewhat larger than the upper ; both pointing
towards the orbit. A small suborbital may be seen upon the com-
missure between the fourth and fifth labials, and two very small supra-
orbitals at the anterior upper edge of the orbit, contiguous above and
below to the anteorbitals. From the commissure between the fifth
and sixth labials, to the posterior supraciliary, may be observed a
curved chain of six small plates, constituting the infero-posterior rim
of the orbit. As already alluded to, there are two small plates placed
between the upper temporal shield and the latero-occipital, as a double
series of postorbitals. The supraciliary chain is composed of seven
subequal plates, whilst the supraoculars number but four, the second
of which being the largest. The temporal shields, three in number,
are : an upper, elongated one, largest, and two lower ones, subrhomboid,
subequal, resting on the labial plates. The" auricular aperture is of
moderate development, provided anteriorly with a series of small, erect
scales, seated within the rim. The upper labials number seven on
either side ; the fifth, constituting the inferior rim of the orbit, is longer
than deep, and quadrangular ; the four anterior being subequal and
smaller ; the first, somewhat more elongated and narrower, sending an
angle to the postnasal ; the sixth and seventh are subrhomboid, and
the largest of the series. The symphyseal is broader, though not quite
so deep as the rostral. The lower labials are seven on either side :
the first is the smallest, and subtriangular ; the second, third, and
fourth are longer than deep ; the rest being nearly as deep as long,
and subequal. Three pairs of mental shields and an odd one are ob-
served; the latter largest, transversely broad; the anterior pair con-
tiguous ; the remaining two pairs diverging and smaller.
The scales surrounding the body are disposed upon thirty longitu-
dinal series, six of which belonging to the dorsal region, eight to each
side, and eight to the abdominal region ; they are subequal on each
region ; the two middle dorsal series alone being somewhat larger than
248 SAURIA.
the adjoining ones. Smallest on the sides, the abdominal scales are
larger than the dorsal ones. The preanal series are subequal. On
the caudal region, the scales are somewhat larger than on the body,
and likewise larger beneath than above.
The upper regions of the head, neck, back, and tail are olivaceous
or fulvous-brown, with metallic reflections ; the head being variously
spotted or speckled with black, whilst the neck and back exhibit a
median black streak, either simple or double, oftentimes interrupted,
or else formed of one or two series of black spots, such as are ob-
served along the tail. A similar black streak exists on each side
of the back, extending from the supraocular region along the tail,
exteriorly of which is a narrow light line, beginning at the supra-
ciliary region, to terminate at the base of the tail. From the eye
to the base of the tail is an orange-red (chestnut-brown in alcoholic
specimens) streak, margined above and below with black, and from
the upper labials is another narrow yellowish streak, crossing the
ear, likewise margined with black, though the same black margin
which lines beneath the orange-red streak, is the one which lines
above the yellowish streak now spoken of. The lower portion of the
sides of the head, neck, and flanks is either orange-red, unicolor, or
else speckled with brown and white. The sides of the tail exhibit
black and yellowish spots, the continuation of the lateral streaks. The
limbs are similarly spotted with black and yellowish. Beneath, the
hue is nearly uniform pale brown, black-speckled under the head, and
obscurely lineolated longitudinally over the belly and along the tail.
LOG. — Specimens of this species were collected, about the Bay of
Islands, New Zealand, during the earliest part of March, 1840, when
a colored sketch was made from the living. It is said to be "common
among stones along the shores of the bay, not being met with at all in
the interior, even on exposed and barren hills." (Pickering.)
Plate XXVII, fig. 9, represents Oligosoma zelandicum, size of life.
Fig. 10, an upper view of the head; — fig. 11, the profile; and,
Fig. 12, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 13, the left hand, from above;— fig. 14, the same, from below.
Fig. 15, a group of dorsal scales;
Fig. 16, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 10-16, are somewhat magnified.
OLIGOSOMA NOCTUUM. 249
2. OLIGOSOMA NOCTUUM, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Body rather depressed, covered with twenty-six longi-
tudinal series of scales. Snout subconical. Vertex plate spear-
shaped, pointing posteriorly. Auricular aperture large and simple.
Middle preanal scales largest. Bronzed, with a vertebral yellow
streak, and two dorsal series of closely approximated black spots,
and a lateral band of the same color, extending on the sides of the
tail. Jaws transversely fasciated with deep brown. Belly fulvous.
SYN. — Scincus noctua, LESS. Zool. Voy. Coq. II, i, 1830, 48, PI. in, fig. 4.
Oligosoma noctuum, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
OBSERT. — This species, though intimately allied to the preceding
one, is easily distinguished from it by its larger scales, more elongated
head, and pointed snout, more elongated and more slender vertex
plate, larger auricular aperture, with its anterior edge simple, else not
provided interiorly with erect scales. It appears also to be of lesser
dimensions, for we have examined series of individuals of both species,
all leading to that belief.
'-
DESCR.— The body is broader than deep. The tail, depressed at
the base, subconical and tapering posteriorly, being somewhat longer
than the body and head combined ; the limbs having the same deve-
lopment as in 0. zelandkum. The head is small and slender, tapering
towards the snout, which is subconical. The rostral plate is elevated,
convex, hemidiscoid. The nasals, subquadrangular or trapezoid, are
lateral and widely separated. The prefrontal, subrhomboid, is narrow-
ing anteriorly, and nearly as broad upon its middle as long. The post-
frontals, small, are wide apart : hence, the prefrontal is contiguous
anteriorly to the rostral and posteriorly to the vertex plate. The
latter is very much elongated, spear-shaped, very much pointed poste-
riorly. The parietals are slender, anteriorly narrow and tapering,
posteriorly rounded and broadest. The middle occipital is elongated
and spear-shaped also, extending almost to the posterior edge of the
latero-occipital plates, which are the largest of the cephalic set. The
post-occipitals are scarcely to be distinguished from the adjoining scales.
The temporal and loral regions present the same aspect in their shields
63
250 s A u R i A.
and plates as in the preceding species. We observe also seven upper
labials on either side ; the fifth enters likewise into the rim of the
orbit, but is not as large as in 0. zelandicum; they increase gradually
in size backwards; the first is the smallest, all of them being quadran-
gular ; the third, fourth, and fifth as deep as long ; the sixth and
seventh deeper than long. The lower labials are very narrow and
elongated, six or seven in number, diminishing posteriorly, the middle
ones being the largest, and the first very small. The symphyseal is
hemidiscoid, nearly equal to the rostral or somewhat larger. The odd
mental shield is large and lozenge-shaped ; those of the fir.st pair are
subrhomboid, and contiguous upon the middle of the chin; the second
pair is the largest, being transversely elongated, diverging as well as
the third pair, which is almost as large as the first pair.
The scales which surround the body constitute twenty-six longitu-
dinal series, four of which belonging to the dorsal region properly so
to be called, eight to the abdominal region, and seven to each side.
The dorsal scales are larger than the abdominal ones, which are larger
than on the sides; the two middle dorsal series, moreover, are much
larger than the adjoining series, and transversely elongated. The two
middle preanal scales are conspicuously larger than the adjoining ones.
A yellowish-golden or whitish band extends from the occiput to the
origin of the tail, flanked on either side by a series of closely approxi-
mated black spots, constituting sometimes a continuous streak, with
undulating margins, at others, the spots are isolated. A bronze area
extends from the supraocular region backwards, and immediately
beneath, on the sides of the body, from the eye to a certain distance
along the tail, is a black band, speckled with bronze or olive, and pass-
ing over the auricular aperture, the insertion of the arms and thighs.
The lower portion of the sides is brownish, light-speckled. The upper
surface of the head and limbs is brown, varied with blackish; the digits
are transversely semi-annulated with black; the upper surface of the
tail being brownish. The abdomen and tail beneath are either light
brown or greyish, sometimes unicolor, at others, obsoletely streaked
between each series of scales. The jaws are transversely fasciated,
with deep brown or blackish upon the commissure of the labial plates,
the centre of which retaining a light brown hue.
Loc. — Coral Islands. Common at Taheiti (Otaheiti) and Eimeo,
Samoa, &c.; under stones, near the margin of the water. Specimens
LYGOSOMELLA AESTUOSA. 251
were also procured at Barak a, Sandwich Islands, and other localities,
thus giving to this species a range almost as wide as that of Emoa
cyanum, and like the latter, it is very likely carried from island to
island by the natives, for it is most frequently seen about their huts.
GENUS LYGOSOMELLA, GIRAKD.
CHAR. GEX. — Corpore depresso, elongate, squamis modicis et striatis
cooperto. Capite subquadraiirjulo-pyramidali, depresso. Naribus in
laierihus sitis, scutum unum perforantibus. Scutis supranasalibus
nullis ; pcirieialibus separatis. Palato cdentulo. Palpebra inferiori
disco pelhicido praedita. Apertura auditor ia antice denticulata ;
tympano prof undo. Membris parvis, valde dislantibus ; digiiis utri-
usque membri quinque inaequalibus ; palmis plantisque subtiliter
tuberculosis; scutellis subdigitalibus transrersis, laevibus. Cauda
modica, subconica, minuente.
GEX. CHAR. — Body depressed, elongated, covered with moderate and
striated scales. Head subquadrangulo-pyramidal, depressed. Nos-
trils lateral, in one plate; no supranasal plates. Parietal plates
separated. Palate toothless. Lower eyelid with a transparent disk.
Auricular aperture denticulated in front; tympanum deeply seated.
Limbs small, far apart ; five fingers and five toes, unequal ; palms
and soles finely tubercular. Subdigital plates transverse, smooth.
Tail moderate, subconical, and tapering.
SYN. — Lyyosometta, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
OBSERV. — Like the preceding, this genus is a dismemberment of
Mocoa, remarkable for its depressed body, weak and distant limbs.
The parietal plates are not united, and the middle occipital exists as
a distinct plate.
LYGOSOMELLA AESTUOSA, Grd.
(Plate XXVII, figs. 1-8.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Corpore longtori, triginta sex seriebus squamarum lon-
gitudinalibus cooperto. Rostro elongato. Scuto labiali superiore quinto
252 8 A U R I A.
in orbitam producto. Apertura auditoria parva, antice siibdenticu-
lata. Scutellis praeanalibus subaequalibus. Galore fusco-olivaceo,
cum vitta paUida nigro maryinata ad partem lateris superiorem.
Dorso et lateribus dlbo nigroque punctatis ; abdomine unicolori ; gula
mentoque nigro punctatis.
SPEC. CHAR. — Body rather long, protected by thirty-six longitudinal
series of scales. Snout elongated. Fifth upper labial entering into
the orbit. Auricular aperture small, slightly denticulated in front.
Preanal scales subequal. Olivaceous-brown, with a pale streak, mar-
gined with black, situated along the upper portion of the flanks.
Dorsal region and sides somewhat speckled with black and white.
Abdomen unicolor. Throat and chin speckled with black.
SYN. — Lygosomclla aestuosa, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
DESCR. — The body is comparatively elongated, subcylindrical, much
broader than deep; the tail being but a little longer than the body and
head combined, subcylindrical, somewhat depressed at the base, stout-
ish, and tapering posteriorly. The head is well developed, depressed,
elongated, subquadrangularly conical. The limbs are small ; the ante-
rior ones will reach the orbit when brought forwards, and when bent
backwards they will extend a little beyond the third of the distance
to the groins. In bringing forwards the posterior pair, the extremities
of the toes will extend midway to the axillae, so that neither the
fingers nor the toes would meet on the sides of the body if directed
towards one another. The fingers and toes themselves are of mode-
rate length, unequal.
The nasal plates approximate one another without coming into con-
tact. The prefrontal is lozenge-shaped, as long as broad ; the post-
frontals being small, and more widely apart than the nasals. The
vertex plate is elongated, broad, anteriorly angular, tapering and
spear-shaped posteriorly, where it overlaps slightly the parietals, as in
0. zelandicum. The parietals themselves are subrhomboid, broad
behind, contiguous anteriorly to the second, and sideways to the third
and fourth supraoculars. The symphyseal, which is larger than the
rostral, is hemidiscoid in shape, the lower labials being seven in num-
ber. The transparent disk of the lower eyelid is elliptical and central.
The auricular aperture is small, and the tympanum rather sunk, some-
LYGOSOMELLA AESTUOSA. 253
times invisible, provided anteriorly with very small erect scales, seated
rather inwardly, so that on a superficial examination their presence
might easily be overlooked.
The scales which surround the body are rather small, for we count
thirty-six longitudinal series of them : six series along the dorsal
region, properly so called, ten on either sides, and ten abdominal
series. The lateral scales are the smallest ; the abdominal ones the
largest. They are subequal over each region, with the exception of the
dorsal region, where the two middle series are slightly larger than the
adjoining series. The preanal scales are subequal also. On the tail,
they are somewhat larger than on the body, and nearly equal all
around.
This species having been sketched from life by the skilful brush of
Jos. Drayton, its coloration has thus been preserved for our inspection.
The upper regions are of an olivaceous-brown hue, without metallic
reflections. A light-brown streak, speckled with black, extends from
the eye to a certain distance along the tail, being at the same time
margined above and below with black, either in a continuous or in-
terrupted line. The dorsal region is speckled with black, and occa-
sionally exhibits a median line of the same color. The sides are bluish-
grey, speckled with black and white. The limbs and tail above are
olive-brown also, and similarly sprinkled over with black. Beneath,
the hue is greyish, minutely dotted with black, more so sideways than
upon the middle region : the throat more densely so than the abdo-
men and tail.
Loc. — Bay of Islands, New Zealand. March, 1840. " Associated
with the preceding (Oligosoma zelandicuni) , and also common on the
beaches more exposed to the surf." [Pickering.]
Plate XXVII, fig. 1, represents Lygosamella aestuosa, size of life.
Fig. 2, is an upper view of the head ;
Fig. 3, a profile ; and,
Fig. 4, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 5, the left hand, from above ;
Fig. 6, the same hand, from beneath.
Fig. 7, a group of dorsal scales ;
Fig. 8, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 2-8, are somewhat magnified.
64
254 s A u R i A.
GENUS LIPINIA, GRAY.
GEN. CHAR. — Body subfusiform or subquadrangular, covered with
well-developed and perfectly smooth, and subequal scales. Head
depressed, declivous towards the snout. No supranasal plates ;
nostrils lateral, each in one plate. Vertex plate elongated, narrow,
tapering posteriorly. A pair of parietals. Middle occipital distinct
from either the parietals or the latero-occipitals. Palate toothless.
Tongue nicked at the extremity. Eye moderate ; lower eyelid with
a transparent disk. Auricular aperture large, subcircular, simple ;
tympanum somewhat sunk, though visible. Limbs four, slender,
and distant; palms and soles tuberculated; fingers and toes unequal,
very small, slender, compressed, and clawed. Tail elongated and
tapering.
SYN. — Lipinia, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 84.
OBSERV. — Whether the species which we describe below is truly
congeneric with Lipinia pulcJiella, GRAY, we are not prepared to decide
for the present, since no description of the latter has as yet been fur-
nished.
The present genus, as here characterized, differs from OUgosoma, to
which it bears strong affinities, in the dorsal scales not being larger on
the two middle series, the weaker and more distant limbs, the exigu-
ous fingers and toes, arid the coarsely granular or rather tubercular
structure of the palms and soles.
Moreover, its scales are perfectly smooth, a character which will
distinguish Lipinia from both, OUgosoma and Lygosomella. In the
latter, the limbs are much wider apart, and the fingers and toes more
developed than in Lipinia. The tubercles over the palms and soles
are also less developed in Lygosomella than in the genus here referred
to.
LIPINIA VULCANIA, Grd.
CHAR. SPEC. — Squamis in triginta series longitudinales circum corpus
dispositis. Scuto praefrontali magno, subquadrangulari ; scutis post-
LIPINIA VULCAN I A. 255
ffontalibua contiguis ; supraocularibits amplissimis ; loreis duobus,
d'/itiibus, ad verticem versus elongntis ; temporalibits squami/ormibus.
Supra fiisea, cum vitta laterali subnigra ; infra unicolori.
i
SPEC. CHAR. — Scales disposed upon thirty longitudinal series around
the body. Prefrontal plate large, subquadrangular ; postfrontals
contiguous ; supraoculars quite large. Two slender, vertically elon-
gated lorals. Temporal shields scale-like. Brown above, with a
lateral darker streak ; beneath unicolor.
SY.\. — Ltpinia vulcania, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sei. Philad. November, 1857.
OBSERV. — From the information we possess regarding Lipinia pvl-
chella, GRAY (Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 84), we are not prepared
to draw any comparative specific characters between the latter and
the species which we describe further on, beyond their system of
coloration, which, however, is quite peculiar in both. We hope some
one will take the opportunity of looking carefully into this subject, and
furnish us with an accurate description of the zoological traits of the
species from the specimens preserved in the British Museum.
DESCR. — The head is depressed, subconcave upon the interocular
region ; the snout being short and subacute, and quite declivous.
The eye is large. The rostral plate is well developed, transversely
elongated, maintaining its width sideways, where it is nearly as deep
as upon the middle line of the snout. The prefrontal is quite large,
eubquadrangular in shape, occupying the entire fronto-rostral space.
The postfrontals are subrhomboid, contiguous upon the middle line of
the head. The vertex plate is quite elongated, sublanceolated, obtuse-
angled anteriorly, and tapering posteriorly into an acute angle, extend-
ing somewhat beyond the middle of the supraocular region. Immedi-
ately behind the vertex plate, and in contiguity with it, are observed
the subtrapezoid parietals, contiguous upon their inner margin. The
middle occipital is moderate-sized, spear-shaped ; its anterior rather
obtuse angle engaging somewhat between the diverging parietals,
whilst laterally it is entirely inclosed by the latero-occipitals, the pos-
terior extremity of which, just approximating near the apex of the
plate we are now alluding to. As to the latero-occipitals.themselves,
they are larger than the parietals, being next in size to the vertex
25(5 SAURIA.
plate ; they are quite elongated, exteriorly rounded, linear upon their
contiguity with the middle occipital, and angular anteriorly, where
they come into contact with the supraoculars and the parietals. The
temples are protected by scales similar to those of the upper region of
the neck, mayhap somewhat larger; the uppermost, lining the latero-
occipital, might be termed a shield, from its stronger resemblance
to the cephalic plates than to ordinary scales. The supraocular
plates are very large, four in number ; the two middle ones trans-
versely elongated ; the other two, subtriangular. Two very small
plates, one at the anterior, the other at the posterior extremity of
the supraocular region, might be regarded as supraocular plates also,
from the fact of their exhibiting most of their surface in an upper
view of the head : still, the anteocular could, with some propriety, be
considered as an anteorbital. and the postocular, as a postorbital. Be
this as it may, the anterior rim of the eye is formed by two subequal
anteorbitals, situated beneath the anteocular just referred to, and the
posterior rim, by three of the temporal scales in addition to the postocu-
lar. The inferior rim of the orbit is formed by the third, fourth, and
fifth upper labials ; the inferior postorbital resting upon the commis-
sure between the fifth and sixth labials, and the inferior anteorbital
upon a portion of the second upper labial. Two, vertically elongated,
rather slender, and subequal lorals may be observed between the ante-
orbitals and the nasal plate ; both resting upon the second upper
labial, superiorly contiguous : the foremost to the prefrontal, and the
hindmost, to the postfrontal. The nasal plate itself is subrhomboid,
resting upon the first upper labial, hence, limited anteriorly by the
rostral, and superiorly by the prefrontal : the nostril perforates it upon
its middle. There are six upper labials, increasing in size posteriorly ;
the first and second being quite narrow and elongated ; the rest are
deeper, and irregularly angular. The symphyseal is hemidiscoid, and
somewhat larger than the rostral ; it is followed, on either side, by four
well-developed lower labials, longer than deep, diminishing in size
backwards ; one or two exiguous ones may be observed at the angle
of the mouth, though not easily distinguished from the adjoining scales.
There are five mental shields of considerable development : an ante-
rior odd one, followed by two pairs, contiguous upon the middle line
of the chin. A small scale may sometimes interpose between the
commissure- of the posterior pair. A third pair of mental shields
might, perhaps, be distinguished from the scales of the throat, in being
HINULIA. 257
rather larger than the latter. The auricular aperture is large, subcir-
cular, and simple.
The body is subquadrangular, rather depressed, separated from the
head by a somewhat contracted neck. The tail is depressed at the
base, conical, and tapering posteriorly into a point ; it is equal in
length to the body and head combined. The limbs are slender and
rather weak ; when the anterior pair is bent backwards, and the pos-
terior pair forwards, the tips of the fingers and toes barely meet; again,
the anterior pair, in being brought forwards, scarcely extends beyond
the anterior edge of the auricular aperture. The fingers and toes them-
selves are unequal, very slender, and clawed ; protected beneath by
large, transverse plates, whilst the palms and soles are coarsely granu-
lar or tubercular.
The scales which protect the body are proportionally well developed,
and disposed upon thirty longitudinal series around the middle of the
body. They are subequal, somewhat smaller on the flanks than on
the back and belly, and smaller still on the sides of the neck than on
the flanks. The t\vo middle preanal scales are a good deal larger than
the adjoining ones upon the interfemoral region; they are subequal
also around the tail, and apparently smaller than on the back and
belly, though they are, in fact, equal sized, but instead of being sub-
rhomboid, and posteriorly rounded, they assume a more elongated or
sublanceolated shape, being rather acute posteriorly. The scales which
cover the limbs are much smaller than those on the flanks.
The color of the dorsal region is light brown, spread over with
darker specks ; the head being unicolor. A lateral dark brown streak,
interrupted or speckled with whitish or yellowish, extends from the
eye to a certain distance along the tail; the side of the head is mottled
with light and dark brown, as also the lower half of the flank. The
inferior regions are light brown, unicolor.
Loc. — Caldera, on Mindanao, Philippine Archipelago.
GENUS HINULIA, GRAY.
GEN. CHAR. — The body is subcylindrical, rounded, covered with per-
fectly smooth scales. The two middle dorsal rows larger than the
rest, and the two middle preanal scales also much larger than the
65
258 s A u R i A.
adjoining ones. The head is subconical. The maxillary teeth short
and subconical. The palate toothless. The eye is moderate ; the
lower lid being scaly. The auricular aperture either simple or
denticulated in front ; tympanum rather sunk. The limbs are
moderate; the fingers and toes five, unequal and compressed. Tail
long, subconical, and tapering.
STN. — Hinulia, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 74 ; &, Zool. Ereb. & Terr,
vi, 1845, 6.
OBSERV. — The species which follows being the only one directly
examined by us, we have not been able to make a thorough study of
the present genus. It strikes us as though composed of heterogeneous
elements, neither sufficiently investigated in themselves nor judiciously
compared to one another.
HINULIA TAENIOLATA. Gray.
SPEC. CHAR. — Nasal plates contiguous. Postfrontals separated. Fifth
tipper labial large, quadrangular, situated under the pupil. Auricu-
lar aperture large, denticulated in front ; tympanum rather sunk.
Twenty-six longitudinal rows of scales around the body. Above
brown or black, with eight white lines extending from the head to
the base of the tail. Tail light brown, with three black streaks.
Beneath whitish, unicolor.
SYN. — Lacerta taeniolata, SHAW, in White, Journ. Voy. N. S. Wales, 1790, 245,
PI. xxxii ; &, Gen. Zool. Ill, i, 1802, 239.
Scincus octolineatus, BAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. IV, 1802, 285.
Scincus taeniolatus, MERR. Tent. Syst. Aniph. 1820, 72.
Scincus undecimstriatus, KUHL, Beytr. Zool. und Vergl. Anat. 1820, 129.
Scincus multilineatus, LESS. Voy. do la Coq. Zool. II, I, 1830, 45, PI. ill, fig. 2.
Tillqua taeniolata, GRAY, Synops. Kept, in Griff. Anira. Kingd. IX, 1831, 68; &,
Ann. Nat. Hist. II, 1839, 289.
Ly/josoma taeniolata, DUM. & BIBR. Erp6t. gen. V, 1839, 734.
Hinulia taeniolata, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 78 ; &, Zool. Ereb. & Terr.
vi, 1845, 7.
Le scinque d dix raies, LACEP. in Ann. Mus. d'hist. nat. IV, 1804, 192 & 208.
Keneux de Lesueur, COCT. Tab. synopt. Seine. (Compt. rend. Acad. des Sc. IV, 1837.)
DESCR. — A small, slender, graceful, and quite handsome species :
the specimen before us measuring about five inches in total length.
HINTJLIA T A E X I 0 L A T A.
259
Although the head is somewhat depressed, the snout is thickish,
obtusely conical, protruding slightly beyond the lower jaw. The ros-
tral plate is elevated, subtriangular. pointing upwards, and extending to
the upper aspect of the head. The nasal plates are large, contiguous
upon the middle line of the snout, subtrapezoid in shape, longest in
the transverse sense of the head : the nostrils occupying their antero-
inferior portion. The odd prefrontal, broader than long, would be
hexagonal if its posterior margin were angular, instead of being
rounded ; it is contiguous in front to the nasals, sideways to the post-
nasals (or anterior lorals, should they so be designated), and behind to
the postfrontals and the vertex plate. The latter is quite long, broad,
and triangular anteriorly, narrow and tapering towards the parietals,
which are rather small, subangular, and narrowest in front. The odd
occipital is very small, slender, elongated, arrow-shaped, pointed pos-
teriorly. The latero-occipitals are broad and well developed, inclos-
ing completely the middle occipital, contiguous sideways to the upper
temporal shield, and in front to the supraoculars. There are three
well-marked temporal shields ; two lower ones, subrhomboid, resting
upon the labial?, and an upper one, larger, subtriangular in shape.
The supraoculars are five in number; the third being the largest; the
first, which is the smallest, might be considered by others as belong-
ing to the supraciliary chain. We observe six in the latter series ;
the anterior two largest ; the posterior one equal to the second ; the
third, fourth, and fifth very small. The posterior rim of the orbit is
formed by five small subequal plates, extending from the commissure
between the fifth and sixth labials to the supraciliary chain. A double
series of postorbitals, composed each of two small plates, may be ob-
served superiorly, in advance of the uppermost temporal shield and
exterior angle of the latero-occipital. The anterior rim of the orbit is
formed by three plates: an inferior one, situated upon the commissure
between the fourth and fifth labials, a middle one, the largest, quad-
rangular like the first, and a very small triangular one, contiguous
above to the first supraocular. A well-developed, pentagonal loral
is next met with, immediately in advance of the middle anteorbital,
being contiguous superiorly to the postfrontal and first supraocular.
A rather narrow, though elevated postnasal (or anterior loral, it
matters not), extends from the second labial to the prefrontal. The
upper labials are seven on either side ; the four anterior subquadran-
gular, subequal, deeper than long ; the fifth subtrapezoid, longer than
2(50 8 A U B I A.
deep, and constituting the inferior rim of the orbit ; the sixth and
seventh subrhomboid, and as large as the fifth. The symphyseal,
somewhat smaller than the rostral, is hemidiscoid. The lower labials,
six on either side, are unequal ; the two anterior small and quadran-
gular ; the third, fourth, and fifth elongated and larger ; the seventh
diminutive or exiguous, hardly visible when the mouth is closed. A
very large, odd mental shield occupies the transverse area of the chin,
between the anterior two labials. It is followed by four pairs ; the
anterior pair largest, and contiguous upon the middle line of the chin;
the remaining diminishing in size, and diverging posteriorly. The
auricular aperture is large, subelliptical, provided anteriorly with three
or four projecting scales, giving that edge a denticulated appearance.
The tympanum is rather deeply seated.
The scales are perfectly smooth and shining : twenty-six longitu-
dinal series may be counted as surrounding the body : four dorsal
series, the two middle ones considerably larger ; fourteen lateral series
(seven on each side), smaller, and eight abdominal series, somewhat
larger than on the sides. The two middle preanal scales are consider-
ably developed. The tail is tapering and pointed, much longer than
the body and head combined ; it is protected by larger scales than the
back and belly, and on the middle inferior row, they are much more
developed still, being transversely elongated, simulating true scutellae.
The fingers and toes are very slender, compressed and unequal, espe-
cially the toes, the fourth of which is quite long.
We pass over the coloration, which is very well described by our
predecessors.
LOG. — Pewen Bewen, Southeastern Australia.
GENUS MABUYA, Fm.
GEN. CHAR. — Body subfusiforrn, rather depressed, of moderate length,
covered with smooth, though striated scales. Head subquadran-
gulo-conical. Parietal plates separated. Nostrils lateral ; supra-
nasals extant. Lower eyelid with a transparent disk. Auricular
aperture simple. Palate toothless. Limbs moderate ; five fingers
and five toes, unequal ; palms and soles finely granulated. Under
aspect of digits protected by smooth, convex plates. Preanal scales
subequal. . Tail conical and tapering.
MABUYAAGILIS. 261
SYN.— Mabttya, FITZ. Neue Class. Kept. 1826, 23 & 52.
Mabouya, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 93.
OBSERV. — The genus Mabuya, as understood here, is a purely Ame-
rican type, peculiar to the tropical and subtropical regions, for, we
have separated, under a peculiar appellation (Emoa), such species of
the islands of the Pacific as were included in it by other writers. As
to Mabuya elegans, a native of India, we leave it out of the question
until we shall have made a comparative study of its generic characters.
MABUYA AGILIS, Fitz.
SPEC. CHAR. — Scales well developed, disposed upon thirty longitudinal
series. Supranasals nearly contiguous upon the middle line of the
rostrum. Postfrontals separated. Parietals smaller than the latero-
occipitals. Middle occipital well developed ; a pair of narrow
postoccipitals. Second supraocular very large. Temporal shields
small, scale-like. Upper labials eight ; seventh much larger than
the rest, and situated under the eye. Lower labials eight also, sub-
equal, narrow. Mental shields transversely elongated. Auricular
aperture moderate, slightly overlapped above by the adjoining
scales, otherwise simple. Back bronzed, black-dotted; on each side,
a broad black band, margined with white.
SYN. — Srincus agilis, RADDI, Mem. matem. e fisic. Soc. Ital. XIX, 18 . . , 62.
Mabuya agilis, FITZ. Neue Class. Kept. 1826, 52.
Scincus bis(riatus,Spix, Spec.nov. Lacert. Bras. 1825,23. Tab. xxvi, fig. 1. — Cuv.
Regn. Anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 63.— GRIFF. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 158.
Scincus nigropunctatus, SPIX, Spec. nov. Lacert. Brasil. 1825, 24. Tab. xxvi, fig. 2.
Euprepis bistriatus, WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 162.
Tilfqua nigropunctata, GRAY, Synops. Kept, in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 69.
Tiliqua albolabris, GRAY, Ann. Nat. Hist. II, 1839, 292.
Tillqua spixii, Cocx. Tab. synopt. Scincoid. (Compt. rend. Acad. des Sc. IV, 1837.)
Eumeces spixii', DUM. & BIER. Erpet. gen. V, 1839, 642.
Mabouya ayilis, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 94.
OBSERV. — We will not dwell upon the peculiar characters of this
species, since it is the only one of its genus now at our command :
hence, unable to speak of it comparatively. The Exploring Expe-
66
262
S A U K I A.
dition, moreover, brought home but one single specimen, not exceed-
ing five inches in total length, and therefore, immature.
There is a feature amongst some of the plates on the sides of the
head which, not having been dwelt upon by other writers, we deem
it imperative to say a few words. We allude to the upper labials and
suborbitals : the upper labials being eight in number, the anterior six
constitute, as it were, a series by themselves, largest in the middle,
diminishing anteriorly and posteriorly, the sixth engaging under the
seventh ; the latter is much larger than the rest, elongated, occupy-
ing almost the entire suborbital region, forming the lower rim of the
orbit, projecting over the sixth, and constituting a separate series with
two or three small suborbitals, and a moderate anteorbital, all convex,
raised into a kind of ridge from the seventh labial to the loral region.
Now, on the loral region, between the orbit and the nasal, we observe
but two plates : the anteorbital, just alluded to, and another, which
may either be considered as a postnasal or a loral, properly so called.
The lower labials are narrow, longer than deep, subequal, except the
first, which is very small and subquadrangular ; the posterior one is
likewise smaller than those in the middle of the series. The symphy-
seal is larger than the rostral. The mental shields, the anterior odd
one as well as the three following pairs, are well developed, subquad-
rangular, transversely elongated; the shields of the anterior pair being
contiguous upon the middle line of the chin.
Loc. — Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
GENUS EMOA, GIRARD.
CHAR. GEN. — Corpore elongate, subfusiforme, plus minusve depresso,
squamis laevibus quamvis substriatis cob'perto. Capite subquadran-
gulo-pyramidaU ; scutis supranasalibus duobus ; parietalibus, cum
quibus scutum occipitale medianum interdum est conjunctum, in unum
codlescentibus ; postoccipitaUbus duobus. Dentibus maxillaribus brevi-
oribus et subconicis • palatinis nullis, Rilpebra inferiori disco pellu-
cido praedlta. Apertnra auditoria denticulala vel simpUci • tympano
profunde sito. Membris sat robustis ; palmis plantisque granulosis;
digitis utriusque membri quinque, compressis, inaequallbus, uncinatis ;
scutellis subdigitalibus numerosis, laevibus. Cauda elongata, minuente.
EMOA. 263
GEN. CHAR. — Body elongated, subfusiform, more or less depressed,
covered with smooth, though substriated scales. The head is sub-
quadrangulo-pyramidal. A pair of supranasal plates. Parietals
united into one. Middle occipital sometimes combined with the
united parietals. A pair of postoccipitals. Maxillary teeth rather
short and subconical. Palate toothless. Lower eyelid with a trans-
parent disk. Auricular aperture denticulated or simple; tympanum
deeply seated. Limbs well developed ; palms and soles granular ;
fingers and toes five in number, compressed, unequal, clawed. Sub-
digital plates numerous and smooth. Tail elongated, tapering.
SYN. — Emoa, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
Emo, in the language of the natives of the Pacific Islands.
OBSERV. — In addition to the four species enumerated further on,
this genus will include several others, specimens of which are not
contained in the collection made by the Exploring Expedition ; they
are the following:
1. EMOA CARTERETI. — Eumeces carteretii, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. V, 1839, 651.
— Malouya carteretii, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 95.
Loc. — New Zealand.
2. EMOA BATJDINI. — Eumeces baudinii, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. V, 1839, 653.
— Mabouya baudinii, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 95.
Loc. — New Guinea.
3. EMOA HIEROGLYPHICA. — Lygosoma hieroylyphicum, HoMBR. & JACQ. Voy. au
Pole Sud et dans 1'Oceanie, PI. v, fig. 1.— DUM. & A. DUM. Catal. meth. Kept. Mus.
d'hist. nat. ii, 1851, 166.
Loc. — Van Diemen's Land.
Emoa baudini appears more closely related to E. cyanura than to
any of the other species, inasmuch as the middle occipital plate is
combined with the united parietals.
Emoa Jiierocjlypliica exhibits characters intermediate between E.
samoensis and E. nigrita.
One feature is striking : in all the species of this genus, there is a
proclivity on the part of the parietals to unite into one plate, and also
to combine with the odd or middle occipital.
And then again, the genus is exclusively pelagic : all the species
belonging to the various islands of the Pacific Ocean.
O
[UNIVERSITY]
264
S A U R I A.
1. EMOA ATROCOSTATA, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Body slender, rather depressed. Scales small, disposed
upon fifty-six longitudinal series. Postfrontals separated. Middle
occipital plate distinct. Auricular aperture moderate, subcircular,
provided anteriorly with one or two erect scales. Tail subcylindri-
cal, somewhat compressed. Above bronzed, spotted with black ;
sides black, speckled with white. Beneath unicolor, occasionally
of a soiled hue.
SYN. — Scincus atrocostalus, LESS. Voy. Coq. Zool. II, I, 1830, 50, PI. IV, fig. 3.
Tlliqua freycinetii, Cocr. Tab. synopt. Scincoid. (Compt. rend. Acad. des Sc. IV,
1837.)
Eumeces freycinetii, BUM. & BIBB. Erpet. gen. V, 1839, 648.
Mabouya atrocostatus, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 95.
DESCR. — The body is slender, and quite depressed, broader than
deep, covered with rather small scales, compared to those of the other
species, hence, the longitudinal series which they constitute are much
more numerous. We observe about fifty-six of them : ten or twelve
on the dorsal region, arid fourteen or sixteen on the abdominal region.
Larger on the tail, they are subequal above and on the sides, whilst the
middle inferior series are transversely elongated, and much larger than
all the rest. The preanal series is larger than the adjoining ones.
The tail itself is but a little longer than the body and head combined,
subconical, posteriorly compressed, and, as usual, tapering. The fore
limbs, when stretched forwards, extend as far as the anterior rim of
the orbit ; the hind ones do not reach to the axillae, and the two
pairs cross each other for about the length of the carpus and tarsus.
The granulation of the palms and soles is rather coarse, and the plates
beneath the digits rather broad.
The head is depressed, wedge-shaped, anteriorly narrow. The post-
frontal plates are kept apart by the contiguity of the vertex plate with
the prefrontal. The supranasals are well developed, and widely sepa-
rated also. The auricular aperture is proportionally larger than in the
two following species ; its anterior margin exhibiting one well-deve-
loped, and two very small, erect scales.
The color above is either bronze or greenish-olive, speckled with black
and whitish ; the sides being made black by an interrupted streak of
EMOA SAMOENSIS. 265
that color, in the midst of which, may be seen elongated whitish spots.
The limbs and tail are variegated with black and olive. Beneath uni-
color, bluish, else of a soiled white.
Loc. — Feejee Archipelago. " Seems to keep mostly on the ground,
among stones." [Pickering.]
2. EMOA SAMOENSIS, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Body stoutish, rather deep. Scales moderate, constitut-
ing thirty-two or four longitudinal series. Postfrontal plates conti-
guous. Middle occipital distinct. Auricular aperture moderate, with
three small erect scales at the anterior margin. Four middle pre-
anal scales, largest. Tail subconical and long. Olivaceous above,
maculated with black ; beneath unicolor and lighter.
SYN. — Eumeces samoensis, HOMBR. & JACQ. Voy. au Pole Sud et dans 1'Oceanie. PI.
V; fig. 2. — DCM. & A. DUM. Catal. meth. Kept. Mus. d'hist. nat. ii, 1851, 157.
Emoa samoensis, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
DESCR. — The head is of moderate development, very much depressed,
slender, elongated, pointed towards the snout, which is subconical. The
rostral plate is large, depressed, owing to the declivous snout ; very con-
vex, almost protruding, though the jaws be even. The nostrils perfo-
rate about the middle of a single plate, situated upon the side of the
snout. An elongated supra- or internasal, lies almost horizontally over
the nasal plate; it is broadest anteriorly, where it is contiguous to the
rostral; tapering posteriorly, where it meets the postnasal. The pre-
frontal is large, subrhomboid, almost as broad as long, contiguous ante-
riorly to the rostral, thus keeping the nasals, as well as the internasals,
widely apart. The postfrontals are rather large, sublozenge-shaped,
contiguous upon the middle of the snout, thus preventing the vertex
plate from coming into contact with the prefrontal. The vertex plate
is moderate, elongated, subpentagonal, broadest anteriorly ; its ante-
rior angle engaging between the postfrontals. The parietal is unique,
broadest posteriorly, slightly notched at the summit to admit the ante-
rior and broadest extremity of the middle occipital, which is quite
small and spear-shaped. The latero-occipitals are well developed,
67
266 S A U R I A.
inclosing posteriorly the middle occipital, and contiguous anteriorly to
the parietal, the fourth supraocular, and the two upper postorbitals ;
laterally to the upper temporal shield, and posteriorly to the post-
occipitals, of which there is a contiguous pair, moderately developed,
meeting anteriorly the upper temporal shield. There are four well-
developed and subequal supraocular plates, differing in shape, though
subequal as regards the area which they cover. The anterior supra-
ciliary might occasionally be taken for a fifth small supraocular : then
the supraciliaries would number six only, all of which rather small ;
the posterior one being much more elongated than the middle ones,
since it extends along the whole margin of the last supraocular. The
postnasal (anterior loral) is elongated, subtrapezoid, narrowest poste-
riorly, contiguous above to the prefrontal and postfrontal, arid beneath
to the second labial. The loral is likewise subtrapezoid, narrowest
anteriorly, where it meets the postnasal, and, as a whole, somewhat
more developed than the latter; it is contiguous above to the post-
frontal and anterior supraocular, and resting upon the third labial.
There are three anteorbitals; the lower one being the smallest and
triangular, resting upon the fifth labial ; the upper one acutely trian-
gular, but slightly larger, and situated under the first supraocular,
whilst the middle one is subquadrangular and well developed, though
a small portion only enters into the orbit, resting, as it does, upon
the fourth labial, and thus occupying a portion of the loral region.
We observe no supralabial plates : the sixth and seventh upper labials
constituting the inferior rim of the orbit. There are five or six
very small postorbitals, irregularly disposed upon a series, and two
somewhat larger, immediately behind the former, and, as already
observed, contiguous to the latero-occipital plate. The surface of the
eyelid is granular, and the ciliary edge provided with numerous
small plates. The transparent disk of the lower eyelid is subcentral
and elliptical. Five or six temporal shields may be distinguished
from the adjoining scales : an upper, elongated one, contiguous to
the latero-occipital. The auricular aperture is moderate, subcircular,
provided anteriorly with one well-developed, and two small, erect
scales. The tympanum is deeply seated. The upper labials are
eight in number ; the two anterior rather narrow and elongated ; the
three following ones, subquadrangular, increasing gradually in size to
the sixth, which is the largest, and longer than deep ; the seventh
and eighth are the next in size, and nearly as deep as long. The
EMOA SAMOENSIS. 267
symphyseal is hemidiscoid, and as large as the rostral. The lower
labials are but five or six, narrow, longer than deep ; the first quite
small ; the rest increasing in size to the fifth and sixth, which is some-
times smaller than the preceding ones. The odd mental shield is
much larger than, the symphyseal ; the next pair is contiguous, and
still well developed ; the next two pairs diverge as well as diminish
in size.
The body is subfusiform, rounded upon the sides and back, which
are convex, whilst the abdominal region is quite flattened ; it is
covered with smooth, though striated scales, disposed upon thirty-two
or thirty-four longitudinal series, six of which belonging to the dorsal
region, ten to each side, and six or eight to the abdominal region. The
two middle dorsal series are the largest; the adjoining two series being
nearly equal to the abdominals, whilst the lateral ones are the smallest.
The preanal scales are somewhat larger than the adjoining series,
unequal : the middle one being the broadest. The tail is elongated and
tapering, depressed at the base, subconical posteriorly. Not being
entire upon the unique adult specimen before us, we cannot compare
its absolute length to that of the body and head combined. A young
individual has it very long, very slender, once and a half the length
of the body and head together. Its scales, sideways, are subequal ;
the upper and lower middle series are much larger, and transversely
elongated.
The limbs are slender and elongated ; the anterior pair, in being
brought forwards, extends as far as the nostrils. The fingers are
slender, compressed, unequal ; the third and fourth, longest. When
the posterior pair is extended forwards, the longest toe reaches the
axilla. The toes themselves are long, slender, and unequal ; the
fourth being the longest ; the third and fifth, nearly equal. The scales
upon the anterior aspect of both pairs of limbs are considerably larger
than on their posterior aspect. The palms and soles are covered with
flattened tubercles, and the inferior aspect of the fingers and toes, pro-
vided with transverse, very narrow, hence numerous, plates. The
nails are stoutish, and compressed at the base; acute, and curved upon
their extremities.
The color of the upper region is olivaceous-brown, maculated with
black, assuming irregular or else interrupted transverse fasciae, which
may be traced all along the tail ; the limbs being variegated with
black and greenish-olive, in transverse bands across the digits. A
268
S A U R I A.
dark patch may also be observed upon the temporal region. The
inferior region being yellowish and unicolor.
Sometimes the upper region is greenish-olive, with obsolete brown-
ish spots, disposed upon two series, on the posterior portion of the
back and on the tail ; the limbs being mottled with brown, and the
digits transversely barred. Beneath, unicolor and yellowish, or whitish.
Specimens of middle size may exhibit a golden hue, with a series of
black spots from the eye to the shoulder. The head, neck, and ante-
rior region of the trunk unicolor, whilst posteriorly the back, sides, and
limbs are speckled with black and greenish-olive.
Still smaller specimens may have a lateral black streak extending
from the orbit to the base of the tail, with a lighter line above it, and
a series of small black spots above the latter, leaving the middle region
of the back unicolor. The lower portion of the sides, the limbs, and
tail, speckled with black and greenish-olive.
Loc. — Navigator and Feejee Groups of Islands. " Frequently seen
about the trunks, and sometimes on the extreme branches of trees,
within a moderate height of the ground. Young very common in
the woods."
3. EMOA NIGRITA, Grd.
CHAR. SPEC. — Corpore robustiori, triginta octo seriebus squamarum am-
pliorum longitudinalibus cooperto. Scutis postfrontaUbus non conti-
guis ; scuto occipilali mediano distincto. Apertura auditoria modica,
subcirculari, simplici. Scutellis praeanalibus qmim reliquis majori-
bus. Cauda subcylindrica, mediocris longitudinis. Galore supra
fvsco-nigrescente, aequabili ; infra pallidiori.
SPEC. CHAR. — Body stoutish, covered with thirty-eight longitudinal
series of well-developed scales. Postfrontal plates not contiguous.
Middle occipital distinct. Auricular aperture moderate, subcircular,
and simple. Preanal scales larger than the rest. Tail subcylin-
drical, of moderate length. Uniform brownish-black above; lighter
beneath.
SYN. — Eumece nlgre, HoMBR. & JACQ. Voy. au Pole Sud et dans 1'Oceanie, PI. IV,
fig. 2.
Emoa niyrita, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
EMOA NIORITA. 269
OBSERV. — This species is closely allied to E. cartereti (Eumeces carte-
retii, Dum. & Bibr.) : first, by its system of coloration, which is of a
uniform hue, and secondly, by its physiognomy, as well as general
structure. It differs from it, however, by the absence of erect scales at
the anterior margin of the auricular aperture, and the separation of
the postfrontal plates (fronto-nasals), owing to the contiguity of the
vertex plate with the prefrontal.
In identifying this species, we have had for sole guidance the fine
figure which is given of it in the Atlas accompanying the " Voyage
au Pole Sud et dans 1'Oceanie," and in so doing, we have passed
over certain details exhibited thereon, ascribing them to the icono-
grapher, rather than to infer that the species before us was distinct.
It is a subject, however, into which we hope the naturalists of the
" Museum d'histoire naturelle," in Paris, will carefully look, comparing
the specimens, there preserved, with the description which we offer.
DESCR. — It is a stouter species than E. samoewis, provided with a
head much less depressed, a broader and thicker snout, and a shorter
tail. The postfrontal plates are separated by the extension of the
vertex plate to the prefrontal, which is sublozenge-shaped, nearly as
broad as long. The vertex plate is more elongated also. The auri-
cular aperture is simple, instead of being denticulated in front.
The scales are disposed upon thirty-eight longitudinal series, hence,
more numerous than in E. samoensw .- six dorsal series, ten abdominal
ones, and eleven on either side. The preanal scales of the external
series are larger than the rest. They are also larger on the tail, where
the middle series above and below are transversely elongated, simu-
lating the scutellae which are observed in other families. The base of
the tail itself is very broad, stout, and depressed, posteriorly conical,
and tapering into a compressed point. The palms and soles are
covered with more minute granules than in E. samoensis, and the
transverse plates under the digits somewhat broader.
The color is of a uniform brownish-black above, somewhat lighter
beneath.
Loc. — Samoa, Navigator Group. Very common.
" It is strong and active, biting very severely. Seems to keep chiefly
near the ground, among stones, being seldom seen ascending trunks of
trees."
68
270
S A U R I A.
4. EMOA CYANURA, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Body slender, rather depressed ; scales well developed,
disposed upon thirty longitudinal series. Postfrontals separated.
Middle occipital plate combined with the united parietals. Auri-
cular aperture moderate, subelliptical, with a few small erect scales
at the anterior margin. Two middle preanal scales larger than the
rest. Tail long and subconical. Above brown or black, with three
longitudinal light streaks, middle one extending from the apex of
the snout to the base of the tail ; beneath unicolor.
SYN. — Sdncus cyanurus, LESS. Voy. Coq. Zool. II, I, 1830, 49. PI. iv, fig. 2.
Scincus celestinus, Mus. LEYDEN. (Fide Dumeril & Bibron.)
Tiliqua cyanura, GRAY, Ann. Nat. Hist. II, 1839, 289.
Tiliqua lessonii, COCT. Tab. synopt. Scincoid. (Compt. rend. Acad. des Sc. IV, 1837.)
Tiliqua Menerii, COCT. Tab. synopt. Scincoid. (Compt. rend. Acad. des Sc. IV, 1837.)
Eumeces lessonii, DUM. & BIBR. Erp6t. gen. V, 1839, 654.
JMabouya cyanura, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 90.
DESCR. — This species is one of small size : its body is slender, sub-
cylindrical, covered with rather well-developed scales, if compared to
those of its congeners. They constitute thirty longitudinal series, a
good deal smaller on the sides than on the back and belly ; those of
the back being somewhat the largest, especially along the middle line.
The two middle preanal scales are a good deal larger than the rest.
The upper middle caudal series is quite large and transversely elon-
gated, and so is the lower middle series also ; sometimes one double
series of ordinary shape intervenes between them. On the sides of
the tail, they are nearly equal to those of the back.
The head is depressed ; the snout narrow and tapering, resembling
somewhat that of E. samoensis. The symphyseal plate is larger than
the rostral ; the supranasals and postfrontals are kept widely apart
by the prefrontal, which is contiguous anteriorly to the rostral, and
posteriorly to the vertex plate. The latter is quite elongated, spear-
shaped posteriorly. The combined parietals are furthermore united
to the middle occipital, forming together a large lozenge. The latero-
occipitals are well developed, as usual approximating posteriorly, as do
EMOA CYANUBA. 271
also the postoccipitals. There are but seven upper labials : the fifth
being the largest, and situated under the eye, forming the inferior rim
of the orbit; the four anterior are subquadrangular; the two posterior,
subrhomboid, deeper than long. The temporal shields are well deve-
loped. The auricular aperture is moderate, subelliptical, provided
anteriorly with small scales, which give to that margin a denticu-
lated appearance. The second pair of mental shields are the largest.
The color above is either of a blackish, chestnut-brown, or deep
greenish-coppery hue, with three longitudinal golden lines or streaks :
one beginning at the apex of the snout, follows the middle line of the
head, neck, and back to the base of the tail; two lateral ones originate
upon the snout, in contact with the middle streak, pass, one on each
side, over the upper edge of the orbit, hence along the sides of the
body to the origin of the tail. Sometimes, the black and the brown
hue of the ground color exist simultaneously, the black lining the
golden streak, and the brown intermediate between two black lines.
The sides, limbs, and tail are sometimes of a lighter brown or black,
uniform; at others, the centre of each scale has a golden reflect, whilst
its edge is darker. Beneath, the color is bluish, and the tail, occasion-
ally, exhibits an azure-blue tint, which is never observed upon speci-
mens preserved in alcohol. There are also instances where the tail
is of a greenish-grey above, with a longitudinal darker line, and whitish
beneath.
We have also observed some specimens of a blackish-brown tint
above, with dull and diffused streaks, and beneath greyish-white.
Loc. — The species appears to be very abundant, and widely diffused
over the islands of the Pacific Ocean, especially the coral islands. The
Expedition has met with it on King's Island, Peacock's Island, Taheiti,
Navigator and Feejee Groups, and Tongataboo. It is the commonest
Saurian of all these islands, occurring near the coast, as well as in the
interior land, in the woods and about the huts of the natives, by which
it is most probably carried from island to island, since these animals
appear to be absent from the uninhabited islands. The same species
was also met with at the Sandwich Islands, and the Philippine
Archipelago.
272 s A u R i A.
FAM. GEKKOTIDAE.
The representatives of this family are remarkable for their depressed
body, covered above with granular scales, giving them a salamandroid
aspect. On the belly, the scales are small, rhombic, and imbricated.
In a few genera, the sides of the abdomen are somewhat expanded
and fringed. The head is generally depressed and subtriangular,
covered with granular scales also. The tongue is thick, short, slightly
notched upon its extremity. The eyelids are circular; the pupil linear
and vertical, occasionally round : the eyes being adapted to nocturnal
vision. There are always two pairs of limbs ; the feet being adapted
to the walk. The toes are subequal, dilated, circular, subcircular, or
subelliptical, lamellated beneath.
STN.— Geckoides, OPPEL, Kept. Prodr. 1811, 22.
Geckotiens, Cuv. R6gn. Anim. II, 1817,44; &, 2d ed. II, 1829, 72.— DUM. & BIBR.
Erp6t. gen. Ill, 1836, '237.
Geckones, SPIX, Spec. nov. Lacert. Bras. 1825.
Ascalalotoidea, FITZ. Neue Class. Kept. 1826, 63.
Gekkonidae, BONAP. Sagg. Distr. Anim. Vertebr. 1831.
Ascalabotes, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. Ill, 1836, 237.
Geckotidae, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 142.
•
Nocturnal in habits, and avoiding the heat of the sun, the reptiles
of this family feed on insects and worms, which they swallow whole.
Their movements are swift and silent, the sound which they produce
being caused by the motion of the tongue against the palate, and has
suggested the name of Ge'kko, by which these animals are commonly
known.
GENUS GEHYRA, GRAY.
GEN. CHAR. — Fingers and toes free, depressed, oval, much dilated
towards the end, with transverse, entire plates beneath. Thumbs
clawless. Back with small, granular scales. Femoral pores present.
Tail rounded, provided with large scales beneath.
GEHYBA OCEAN ICA. 273
Srs.—Gfhyra, GRAY, Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond. II, 1834, 100; Zool. Misc. 1842, 57;
&, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mas. 1845, 162.
Perodactylus, FITZ. Svst. Kept. 1843, 103.
OBSERV. — In this genus, the scales which cover the dorsal region
are quite small, granular, and uniform, giving to that region a smooth
appearance. Upon the abdomen, they are larger than on the back,
and assume again the shape of genuine scales. The latter are smooth,
that is, not carinated. The pupil is vertically elliptical, so far as our
observations go. The last phalanx is slender, compressed, and curved,
terminated by a curved nail, and inserted above the expanded portion
of the digits. The thumbs are clawless.
1. GEHYRA OCEANICA, Gray.
SPEC. CHAR. — Digits rather elongated. Dorsal scales minute and
uniform. Abdominal scales subquadrangular on the middle of the
belly. Reddish-brown above, spotted with white ; whitish beneath.
SYS.— Gecko oceamcus, LESS. Voy. Coq. Zool. II, I, 1830, 42. PI. n, fig. 3.
Gehyra paciftca, GRAY, Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond. II, 1834, 100.
Gehyra oceanica, GRAY, Zool. Misc. 1842, 58 ; &, Catal. Lisz. Brit. Mas. 1845,
163.
Naultinus pnciftcus, GRAY, Zool. Misc. 1842, 58; Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mas. 1845, 169.
Gehyra yulnris, GRAY, MSS. Brit. Mus.
Hemidactylus ouatensi*, Dmi. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. Ill, 1836, 350. PI. xxvnr,
fig. 7.
Perodactylus oualensis, FITZ. Syst. Kept. 1843, 103.
OBSERV. — The upper labials are smaller than the lower, and the
rostral is larger than the symphyseal. We observe as many as twelve
upper, and twelve lower labials ; the upper ones, diminishing gradu-
ally in size, from the rostral to the angle of the mouth ; the third and
fourth lower labials are the largest ; the first is nearly equal to the
fifth ; the remaining ones diminish posteriorly. There are four pairs
of mental shields ; the middle pair being the longest, and the only one
conspicuously developed. Many small plates may be observed beneath
the lower labials, contrasting with the exceedingly minute granules
which cover the region of the throat. The granules of the upper sur-
69
274 SAURIA.
face of the head resemble those of the back, being but slightly larger
upon the snout. The upper labials are lined with a series of very small
plates. The upper surface of the limbs is granular also, except upon
the carpus and tarsus, where the granules give way to small scales.
The abdominal region is covered by genuine scales, larger upon the
middle of the abdomen, where they are subquadrangular, than on the
chest and pelvis, where they are subpyramidal in their outline ; they
are largest upon the middle femoral region, where, in the male, twenty
pores on either side constitute a curved series, with the extremities of
the scales contiguous upon the medial line. The scales upon the pre-
anal region are equal to those on the pelvic region, but on the posterior
portion of the thighs they assume a granular aspect. Under the leg.
properly so called, the scales are as large as on the middle femoral
region. The skin is exceedingly tender, and easily lacerated in the
attempt to capture these animals.
The tail is subconical, slightly depressed, provided, upon the infe-
rior mesial line, with a double series of rather large and somewhat
irregular scales or plates ; and, on each side of these, may be observed
small and polygonal scales, passing to granules as they approximate
the upper surface of that organ.
The upper regions are reddish-brown, spotted with white, and, occa-
sionally, exhibiting a few black markings. The inferior regions are
unicolor, of a whitish hue.
Loc. — Specimens of this species were collected on the Navigator
Islands, and at Taheiti also. They were "often seen about the trunk
of the trees, in the daytime, about the cocoanut tree, and also in the
interior forest."
2. GEHYRA VORAX, Grd.
(Plate XVI, figs. 1-8.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Digitis palmarum plantarumque amplis, brevissimis.
Squamis dorsualibus parvis, aequalibus ; dbdominalibm subpyra-
ml-dnlibus sen lanceolatis. Supra fasca vel fusco-cinerea, nigro macu-
lata ; infra albescente, nigro punctata.
GEHYRA VOKAX. 275
SPEC. CHAR. — Fingers and toes broad and rather short. Dorsal scales
small and uniform. Abdominal scales subpyramidal in outline.
Brown or greyish-brown above, maculated with black ; beneath
whitish, dotted with black.
SYN. — Gehyra vorax, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
Moco, FEEJEES.
OBSERV. — This species is closely allied to the preceding one, but
appears to grow to a much larger size. It is a stoutly built, strong
animal, of a voracious disposition. The naturalists of the Expedition,
who have observed it alive, state that it will even spring at a person,
who may approach it while in captivity, and inflict a very severe
bite.
DESCR. — The body is depressed, broader than deep, and thickest
upon its middle region. The granulation of the back is proportionally
coarser than in the preceding species : a fact easily ascertained by the
comparison of specimens of equal size of both species. The abdomi-'
nal scales, on the other hand, are smaller. The granules on the upper
surface of the head, neck, and temporal region are a good deal smaller
than on the back. The scales upon the carpus and tarsus are smaller
than in the preceding species, as are also those on the inferior surface of
the leg. The femoral scales are equal in size, and alike in outline to
the abdominal ones; the series of femoral pores, of either side, are con-
tiguous upon the mesial line : they are composed of nearly twice as
many pores as in the preceding species.
The tail is subconical, somewhat depressed, constituting about the
third, or rather more, of the total length. A single specimen has it
preserved. Its upper surface is covered with granular scales, larger
than those of the back, increasing in size laterally, becoming quite
large along the middle of the inferior surface, assuming the aspect of
scutellae, though irregular in outline, and variable in size.
The head is quite depressed, and, viewed from above, it is pyrami-
dal in its outline. The nostril is subpyriform, and situated immedi-
ately above the commissure between the rostral and the first labial
plate. Three small plates may be termed internasal, from their posi-
tion, one above each nostril, the third in a notch of the rostral, and
between the two just mentioned. There are fourteen upper labials,
276 SAURIA.
gradually diminishing in depth towards the angle of the mouth. The
lower labials are twelve in number, anteriorly more developed than
the upper ones, and likewise diminishing in size posteriorly : none of
them extending as far as the angle or the commissure of the mouth,
which, from beneath the pupil, is arched upwards, and bordered with
small scales, not distinguishable from those covering the rest of the
head. The syrnphyseal is much smaller than the rostral, and hardly
larger than the first lower labial. There is one pair of mental shields
of moderate development ; between each of which, and the labials,
may be seen four or five small plates, diminishing in size backwards.
The scales under the throat are reduced to minute granules.
The eye is large, and the orbit subcircular, bordered by a double
row of small subconical scales. The auricular aperture is of moderate
development, and distant from the angle of the mouth about one
ocular diameter.
The legs are stout and short, the extremities of the toes hardly
meeting one another when the posterior ones are bent forwards along
the side of the abdomen. The inner toe is clawless ; they are all
broad, subelliptical, bordered with a series of narrow and elongated
scales, minutely granular on their upper surface, and plated beneath,
each plate being gently undulated.
The ground color above is blackish-brown, with cloudlike patches
of black and greenish-white ; the sides of the abdomen, legs, and tail
exhibit conspicuous white spots, and a few black dots. Beneath, the
hue is of a greyish-olive. The toes themselves appear to be entirely
olivaceous. The labial plates being yellowish-olive.
The young are brown above, transversely and irregularly barred
with black ; beneath of a soiled white.
LOG. — Feejee and Raruka Islands. — It was often brought by the
natives to Dr. Pickering, who observed it also at large.
Plate XVI, fig. 1, represents Gehyra vorax, size of life.
Fig. 2, is an upper view of the head.
Fig. 3, an inferior view of the same region.
Fig. 4, the left leg.
Fig. 5, profile of a clawed toe.
Fig. 6, upper view of the same.
PEROPUS MUTILATUS. 277
Fig. 7, granulation of the back, somewhat magnified.
Fig. 8, abdominal scales, also slightly magnified.
GENUS PEROPUS, WIEGM.
GEX. CHAR. — Pupil vertical. Fingers and toes slightly palmated,
dilated upon their extremity, with transverse plates beneath,
divided by a mesial groove. Thumbs clawless. Back covered with
small, granular scales. Femoral pores present. Tail depressed,
provided with small scales beneath.
SYN. — Peropus, TViEGM. Act. Acad. nat. car. XVII, i, 1835, 238. — BUM. & BIBR.
Erpet. gen. Ill, 1836, 350.— GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 159.— FITZ. Syst.
Kept, 1843, 103.
OBSERV. — The chief difference between this genus and Gehyrn, con-
sists in the structure of the subdigital plates, which are divided by a
mesial groove, and obliquely disposed upon each half of the disk, so
as to assume a fanlike aspect. The tail itself is flattened or depressed,
whilst in Geliyra it is nearly cylindrical. As to the presence or absence
of a membrane uniting partially the toes at their base, it may be met
with in both genera.
1. PEROPUS MUTILATUS, Wiegm.
SPEC. CHAR. — Eyes moderate. Mental shields rather large and poly-
gonal. Tail laterally subserrated. Grey above, with small brown-
ish spots. Beneath whitish.
X. — Peropus nnttilatus, WIEGM. Act. Acad. nat. curios. XVII, r, 1835, 238. —
GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 159.— FITZ. Syst. Kept. 1843, 103.
ffemidaclt/lus mutilatus, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. Ill, 1836, 354.
OBSERV. — A specimen of this species, answering to the description
of the authors quoted above, was collected while the squadron explored
the Balabac Strait. It is two and two-thirds of an inch long, the
tail forming about the half of that length, in which the head enters
70
278 SAURIA.
six times and a half. It must be an animal of very delicate texture,
for it appears to be of difficult preservation.
The dorsal scales are smaller along the dorsal line than on the
sides of the body. The rostral plate is low, subhexagonal, the nos-
trils being situated laterally, immediately behind the upper angles of
the rostral plate. There are a few internasal, very small, plates ; the
fronto-nasal region exhibits somewhat larger, granular scales, than
the occipital region, where they are as small as on the middle line of
the back. The subgular scales are very small also. The mental
region, properly so called, is covered with rather large, polygonal
plates, disposed in pairs upon the mesial line. On the tail, the scales
are arranged upon circular series ; they are larger than on the back
and sides ; beneath that organ, they assume the same arrangement,
and are likewise larger than on the abdomen.
The ground color of the upper regions is grey, with small, brown,
irregularly dispersed spots. The inferior regions are whitish, uni-
color.
LOG. — Balabac Passage, Philippine Archipelago.
2. PEROPUS NEGLECTUS, Grd.
CHAB. SPEC. — Oculis magnis. Scutis mentalibus parvis, polyrjonalibus.
Cauda a latere serrata. /Supra fusco, nigro notato; infra unicolori,
SPEC. CHAR. — Eyes large. Mental shields small, and polygonal. Tail
laterally serrated. Above brown, with black markings. Beneath
unicolor.
SYN. — Peropus neglectus, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
OBSERV. — A single specimen of this species was collected. Its state
of keeping will not permit a full description to be drawn. Compared
to the preceding species, the eye is much larger, and the tail more
conspicuously serrated laterally. The granulation of the upper
regions, and the scales of the inferior regions, are larger than in P.
mulilatus.
DACTYLOPERUS. 279
The ground color of the upper regions is light or yellowish-brown,
with a few black dots, spots, or streaks, irregularly disposed. A con-
spicuous streak may be traced from the nostril to the eye, and from
behind the eye, across the auricular aperture, to the shoulder, or else
to the insertion of the anterior limbs. The inferior regions are uni-
color, of a soiled white.
LOG. — The label having been lost in the unpacking, the fatherland
of this species is not known to any degree of certainty. The speci-
men preserved is supposed to have been collected at Rio de Janeiro,
Brazil, from the recollection of the naturalists of the Expedition.
GENUS DACTYLOPERUS, FITZ.
GEN. CHAR. — Pupil circular or elliptical. Fingers and toes free,
dilated upon their whole length, with two series of diverging plates
beneath, divided by a groove. Thumbs wanting the last joint, and
clawless. Upper regions covered with small, nearly equal scales.
Femoral pores in the male. Tail depressed, provided beneath with
large scutellae.
o
s, FITZ. Syst. Kept. 1843, 103.
Peripia, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 158.
OBSERV. — This genus is closely allied to Peropus, from which it
differs by the shape of the pupil, the unwebbed toes, and the presence
of large plates or scutellae under the tail. To Boltalia it bears strong
analogies, if not affinities, for, the thumb exhibits the rudiment of the
last joint, which is adherent to the surface of the expanded digit, in-
stead of being free and simply inserted upon it. The claw is not
developed: a mere acute point being perceived at the apex of the rudi-
mentary joint. A fact like this cannot fail to have a weight in the
mind of some herpetologists, against the establishment of genera upon
characters apparently so slight as those upon which Boltalia, Dactylo
perus, and Peropus are based.
280
S A U R I A.
DACTYLOPERUS INSULENSIS, Grd.
CHAR. SPEC. — Squamis notaeis quam lateralibus ininoribus. Capite
caudaque supra granulatis. Scutis mentalibus quatuor in seriem
transversalem appositis. Supra fusco-cinereo, minimis punctis nigris
notato ; infra albescente.
SPEC. CHAR. — Scales along the middle region of the back .smaller than
on the sides. Upper surface of the head and tail granular. Four
mental shields, placed side by side. Greyish-brown above, minutely
speckled with black ; whitish beneath.
SYN. — Dactyloperus imulensis, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November,
1857.
DESCR. — In a specimen three inches and a half in total length, the
tail measures an inch and a half. The rostral plate is subpentagonal;
the nostril perforates a small plate situated sideways, in contiguity
with the rostral. There are two small internaso-rostral plates. The
upper surface and sides of the head being covered with granular
scales, of somewhat coarser appearance upon the fronto-nasal region,
than on the frontal and occipital regions. The orbit is circular and
rather large ; its diameter entering once and a half over the distance
between its anterior rim and the extremity of the muzzle or snout.
The auricular aperture is rather moderate, and distant from the orbit
by one of its diameter. The subgular scales are quite small, whilst
the mental shields are considerably developed. The middle pair is
very large and elongated, narrowest posteriorly, contiguous anteriorly
to the symphyseal and first labials. The adjacent pair is smaller than
the former, and, like it, contiguous to the labials. A few small plates
may be observed between the outer pair of mental shields and the
parallel labials.
The upper region of the body is covered with small subcircular
scales, a good deal smaller along the middle line of the back than on
the sides ; those protecting the abdomen are larger yet, and have a
much smoother appearance. The inferior surface of the thighs, in the
male, exhibit a continuous series of pores, about twenty in number, on
either side. The upper surface of the tail is covered with granular
CROSSTTRUS PLATYURUS. 281
scales, whilst on the under surface, may be observed large plates or
scutellae, the middle one being transversely elongated, constituting a
regular row, which extends near the extremity of that organ.
The specimens before us are somewhat discolored : a greyish-brown
hue seems to have pervaded the upper regions, with small and darker
spots irregularly dispersed over the head, body, limbs, and tail. The
labial plates are dark brown, with a light marginal fillet. The infe-
rior regions are whitish, either unicolor or provided with a minute
dark spot or dot upon each scale.
Loc. — Oahu and Kauai, Sandwich Islands.
GENUS CROSSURUS, WAGL.
GEN. CHAR. — Toes semipalmated, dilated upon their anterior extre-
mity, all provided with a nail ; plates, underneath, divided by a
median groove. No femoral pores. Tail depressed, provided beneath
with a series of large scutellae.
SYN.— Crossunis, WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 141. — GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit.
Mus. 1845, 158.
OBSERV. — In accordance with Gray, we restore the genus Crossunis
of Wagler, and place in it a second species, which has been referred
to the genus Hemidactyhis by modern writers; and, still more recently,
was made the type of a distinct genus under the name of Platyurus.
Femoral pores are ascribed to the male sex of the latter genus: "a fact
which would establish another difference between it and Doryura,
which it approximates quite closely. The web at the base of the
toes, the presence of a nail to the thumb as well as to the fingers, the
absence of femoral and anal pores, and the depressed tail, are as many
characters which commend the genus Crossurus to our attention.
CROSSURUS PLATYURUS, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Sides of body and thighs provided with an expanded
membrane. Tail flattened, laterally thin and fringed. Greyish,
with black streaks and spots.
Tl
282 SAURIA.
SYN. — Stellio platyurus, ScHN. Denks. Miinch. Akad. 1811, 30. Tab. i, fig. 3.
Lacerta Schneider iana, SHAW, Gen. Zool. Ill, 1802, 278.
Gekko platyurus, MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 41.
Gecko maryinatus, GRIFF, in Cuv. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 147.
Hemidactylm platyurus, WIEGM. Act. Acad. nat. cur. XVII, I, 1835, 238.
H. marginatus, Cuv. Re"gn. Anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 54; &, ed. illustr. Kept. 77. —
WIEGM. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 145. — GRAY, Synops. Kept, in Griff. Anim. Kingd.
IX, 1831, 51.— BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. Ill, 1836, 370. PI. xxx, fig. 2.
Platyurus schneiderianus, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 157.
OBSERV. — We do not see the propriety of adopting the genus Platy-
urus for the present species, as proposed by John Edward Gray, having
failed observing the characters which he assigns to it. The materials
at our command, however, are somewhat deficient ; and, we should
have considered it premature to discuss this subject to any greater
length.
Loo. — The solitary specimen in the collection is labelled " East
Indies."
GENUS HEMIDACTYLUS, Cuv.
GEN. CHAR.— ^Fingers and toes free, dilated towards their anterior
extremity, and all provided with a nail ; plates, underneath, in
two diverging series, divided by a mesial groove. Femoral pores
present. Body with a slight ridge on the lower part of the sides.
Tail subdepressed, provided beneath with large scales or scutellae.
SYN.— Hemidactylus, Cuv. Regn. Anim. II, 1817, 47; 2d ed. II, 1829, 54; &, ed. ill.
Kept. 77.— WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 142.— WIEGM. Herp. Mexic. 1834, 20.—
DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. g6n. Ill, 1836, 344.— GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 152.
OBSERV. — The genus Hemidactylus, as here understood, includes
some of the " Dactyloteles fissipedes," of Messrs. Dumeril & Bibron.
The limits ascribed to it by various writers appear to us a good deal
wider than will hereafter be found expedient, when the species shall
have been more thoroughly investigated.
HEMIDACTYLUS MABUIA. 283
1. HEMIDACTYLUS MABUIA, Cuv.
(Plate XXV, figs. 9-16.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Small, conical tubercles, disposed upon longitudinal
series along the upper region of body and tail. Femoral pores con-
stituting a continuous series in advance of the vent. Yellowish-
brown, with black spots across the back. Beneath unicolor.
SYN. — Hemidactyluss maluia, Ccv. Regn. Anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 54; &, ed. illustr.
Kept. 77. — GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 154.
Hemidactylus malouia, Du.M. & BiBR. Erpet, gen. Ill, 1836, 362.
Gecko maluia, MOR. DE JONN. Monogr. 1821. — GRIFF. Cuv. Anim. Kingd. IX,
1831, 146.— GRAY, Synops. in Grif. Anira. Kingd. IX, 1831, 51.
Gecko aculeatus, SPIX, Spec. nov. Lacert. Bras. 1825, 16. Tab. xvm, fig. 3.
G. incanescens, NEUW. Reise nach Bras. I, 1815, 106; Beitr. Naturg. Bras. I, 1825,
101 ; &, llec. PI. Col. d'Anim. PI. fig. 2.
G. armatus, XEUW. Reise nach Bras. 1811, 5, 106 ; Beitr. Naturg. Bras. 1, 1825, 104 ;
i, Rec. PI. Col. d'Anim. PI. fig. 3-6.
Thecadacfylus pollicaris, SPIX, Spec. nov. Lacert. Bras. 1825, 17. Tab. xvm, fig. 2.
Tachybates mabuya, FiTZ. Syst. Rept, 1843, 105.
OBSERV. — The upper surface of the head is minutely granular :
there being a few very small tubercles scattered over the occipital
region. The inferior surface of the head has likewise a granular
aspect, owing to the diminutiveness of the scales, and which contrast
very much with the large, subtriangular, mental shields, of which
there are two pairs, placed sideways of the symphyseal, and contigu-
ous to the lower labial plates. The tail is longer than the body and
head together, and tapering into a point. We perceive no preanal pores,
properly so called, but the femoral ones are very conspicuous, consti-
tuting a continuous series across the interfemoral region. The abdo-
minal scales are tiles-like ; on the femoral and postanal regions, they
are largest, the series under the tail excepted.
A colored sketch of this species having been made from a live speci-
men caught at Rio de Janeiro, in December, 1838, exhibits the upper
regions of the animal as being of a fulvous hue, or yellowish-brown.
The head is indistinctly spotted with dark brown, and along the back
may be seen five or six transverse, dark brown blotches, subpentagonal
284
S A U R I A.
in shape, posteriorly angular, and margined with whitish. Obsolete
brown bars are observed across the legs, fingers, and toes. The tail
has a serniannulated appearance : the same dark spots extending over
it in the form of transverse bands. Beneath, the coloration is uniform
yellowish-white.
Loc.— Several specimens were collected in the vicinity of Rio de
Janeiro, Brazil.
Plate XXV, fig. 9, represents Hemidactylus mabuia, size of life.
Fig. 10, is an upper view of the head;
Fig. 11, its profile; and,
Fig. 12, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 13, the left hand, from above;
Fig. 14, the same hand, from beneath.
Fig. 15, a group of dorsal scales;
Fig. 16, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 10-lb', are somewhat magnified.
2. HEMIDACTYLUS CYANODACTYLUS, Grd.
(Plate XXV, figs. 17-24.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Subtrihedral tubercles scattered over the upper regions
of the body. Digital disks rather narrow. Series of femoral pores
separated by one scale. Greyish above, marmorated with brown ;
beneath unicolor.
SYN. — Gecus cyanodactylus, RAFIN. Caratt. nuov. gen. &c. 1810, 9.
Hemidactylus verruculat.us, Cuv. R6gn. Anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 54; &, ed. illustr. Kept.
77.— BORY & BIBR. Exped. Sc. Moree. Ill, i, 1832, 68. Tab. xi, fig. 2 a b, 3e serie.
— DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. Ill, 1836, 360.— GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845,
154.
Hemidactylus granosus, RUPP. Atlas.'Rept. 1827, 17. PL V, fig. 1.
Gecko verruculatus, GRIFF. Cuv. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 146.
Hemidactylus verrucosus, GRAY, Synops. Rept. in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 50.
Hemidactylus triedrus, BoNAP. Faun. Ital. 1840. (Fig. 2.)
Hemidactylus lurtonii, GRAY, Brit. Mus. (Vid. Catal. Lizz.)
Le petit lizard yris et mouchete, EDW. Hist. Nat. Ois. Rar. 1751. PI. cciv.
D 0 R Y U R A. 285
OBSERV. — A few small tubercles are scattered over the occipital
region, the rest of the surface of the head being finely granular,
somewhat coarser, however, upon the fronto-nasal space. The scales
under the head are small, subgranuliform, preceded anteriorly by one
pair of quite large, subtriangular, mental shields, inclosing entirely
the symphyseal; and upon its sides, contiguous to the lower labial
plates, is a second pair of small mental shields or chin scales, as some-
times termed. The series of scales adjoining the lower labials are
somewhat elongated, and larger than the rest. The dorsal tubercles
do not extend over the arms and forearms, though they may be traced
along the hind legs as far as the tarsi. The series of femoral pores
of either side is separated from its fellow by an intervening scale.
The color of the upper region is greyish-red, marbled or rather inar-
morated with dark brown ; the tail is transversely spotted, assuming
a semi-annulated aspect. The inferior region is whitish, unicolor. A
drawing from life was made in October, 1838.
LOG. — Port Praya, San Jago, Cape de Verde Islands.
Plate XXV, fig. 17, represents Hemidactylus cyanodactylus, size of
life.
Fig. 18, is a view of the head from above;
Fig. 19, its profile; and,
Fig. 20, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 21, the left hand, from above;
Fig. 22, the same hand, from beneath.
Fig. 23, a group of dorsal scales;
Fig. 24, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 18-24, are somewhat magnified.
GENUS DORYURA, GRAY.
GEN. CHAR. — Fingers and toes free, dilated towards their anterior
extremity, and all provided with a nail or claw; plates, underneath,
in two diverging series, divided by a median groove. Femoral pores
absent. Back covered with minute, uniform, granular scales. Sides
of body and limbs, simple. Tail very much depressed, covered above
12
9gg S A U R I A.
with small scales, flattened beneath, with a sharp edge more or less
denticulated, and a central series of large plates or scutellae.
a, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 156.
OBSERV. _ This genus is perhaps more closely allied to Hemidactylus
than to any other of the same group, for, the chief differences consist
simply in the uniform granular scales which cover the upper surface of
the body, and in the shape and structure of the tail. The latter is
very much depressed, superiorly convex, with sharp lateral edges, often
denticulated, whilst its inferior surface is quite flattened, resembling
the same organ in Crossurus platyarus. The central series of large
plates, or scutellae, are met with in other genera. We find no femoral
pores upon the specimens now before us : so that if their absence
prove to be a constant fact, we shall have another character to dis-
tinguish Doryura from Hemidactylus.
DORTURA VULPECULA, Grd.
(Plate XXIV, figs. 17-24.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Capite depressiuscido, antice subacuto. Collo tumido.
Tergo granulis minimis aequalibus, et cauda parvis squamis, coopertis.
Scutis mentalibus in quadratum dispositis, antice labialibits contiguis.
Cauda minuente, a latere laevi. Supra cinerea vel fusco-flava ; infra
pallidescente ; nonnunquam albo punctata.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head quite depressed, and subacute anteriorly. Neck
swollen. Back covered with minute, equal granules, and tail with
small scales. Four mental shields, disposed upon a square, ante-
riorly contiguous to the labial plates. Tail tapering, nearly even
laterally. Grey or yellowish-brown, lighter beneath 'than above,
and occasionally spread over with pale dots.
SYN. — Doryura vulpecula, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
OBSERV. — By its coloration, this species reminds us of D. bowringi,
from which it chiefly differs by the presence, on the tail, of small
DORYURA VULPECULA. 287
scales, instead of "equal granules." From D. garnoti it differs by a
more pointed snout or muzzle, and by the sides of the tail not being
denticulated.
DESCR. — We have had an opportunity of examining several speci-
mens of both sexes, the largest of which measuring a little over four
inches in total length. The general appearance of the species is uni-
formly smooth : a trait more or less generic, we concede. The head
and body are slender ; both, quite depressed. The head especially is
very flat, wedge-shaped, slightly concave upon the middle line of the
frontal region. The snout is rather elongated, subacute. The nostril
is contiguous anteriorly to the rostral plate, and surrounded upon the
rest of its periphery by four very small plates: the inferior one resting
upon the first upper labial. The eye is large and circular ; the dia-
meter of the orbit entering nearly twice upon the space between its
anterior rim and the extremity of the snout. The auricular aperture is
small and subcircular. The upper surface of the head, like that of the
body, is covered with granular scales, somewhat larger on the fronto-
nasal region than on the back, and much smaller than the latter, on
the occipital and interocular regions. Under the head, over the hyoid
region, properly so called, the granules are equal in size to those along
the sides of the body, whilst the mental region exhibits four polygonal
shields, disposed upon a square in two pairs, one in advance of the
other : the anterior pair being contiguous to the symphyseal plate and
the first lower labials ; the posterior pair, somewhat smaller, conti-
guous to the former, but separated from the labials by a narrow space,
occupied by small scales, which may be traced all along the branch of
the lower jaw. The mental shields of the anterior pair are, more-
over, contiguous to each other upon the mesial line of the chin, whilst
those of the posterior pair are separated from each other, upon that same
mesial line, by a few small scales or granules. The sides of the neck
are quite swollen, and granular, like the body. At the lower portion of
the sides, may be seen a slight ridge, extending from near the axillae
to the groins. The abdomen is protected by smooth, subcircular scales,
disposed upon longitudinal series, smallest upon the chest, and largest
under the thighs, assuming a lanceolated shape upon the preanal region.
There are no femoral pores. The upper and posterior surfaces of the legs,
inferior surface of the arms and forearms, and upper surface of the toes,
are granular like the body, whilst small scales are to be observed upon
288
S A C R I A.
the anterior surface of the arm and forearm, and upon the inferior
surface of the thigh and leg, properly so called. The tail is a little
shorter than the body and head together; its upper surface is covered
with small, smooth, imbricated, posteriorly rounded scales; whilst its
inferior surface is protected by a central series of transversely elon-
gated plates or scutellae, more developed in the male than in the
female. The sides of that organ are sharp, though not otherwise
serrated or denticulated.
The color is sometimes greyish ; at others, yellowish-brown, and, as
usual, of a much lighter hue beneath than above. Pale dots may be
seen indiscriminately scattered all over, though, generally speaking,
more apparent upon the neck and anterior portion of the body ; in
very young specimens, these dots are apparently wanting, but the
upper surface of the tail exhibits pale, transverse, narrow streaks.
LOG. — Sandwich Islands.
Plate XXIV, fig. 17, represents Doryura mdpecula, size of life.
Fig. 18, is an upper view of the head;
Fig. 19, its profile; and,
Fig. 20, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 21, the left hand, from above;
Fig. 22, the same hand, from beneath.
Fig. 23, a group of dorsal granules.
Fig. 24, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 18-24, are somewhat magnified.
GENUS ASCALABOTES, Cuv.
GEN. CHAR. — Pupil vertical. Symphyseal plate elongated. Back
covered with granules and scale-like tubercles. Neither preanal
nor femoral pores. Tail rather depressed, subangular above, with
cross-rings of tubercular spines. Fingers and toes free, subequal,
protected by continuous transverse plates beneath; third and fourth,
with the last joint compressed, clawed; the rest, the thumb included,
without the last joint, and clawless.
SYN.— Ascatalotes, Cuv. Regn. Anim. II, 1817, 44; 2d ed. II, 1829, 51; &, ed.
illustr. Kept. 72.— FITZ. Neue Class. Kept. 1826, 13; &, Syst. Eept. 1843, 102.— BONAP.
Faun. Ital. II, 1832.
ASCALABOTES DELALANDIL 289
OBSERV. — There is no reason for suppressing entirely the name of
Ascalabotes, as applicable to a genus of the Gecko's family. It corre-
sponds to the Division A of the "Hete'role'pidotes fissipedes" or Dionyx,
of Dume"ril & Bibron, also to Tarentola, of John Edward Gray.
ASCALABOTES DELALANDII, Fitz.
(Plate XXV, figs. 1-8.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Tubercles of the back simple, oval, very slightly keeled ;
upon the sides, conical. Ground color pale or greyish-brown, with
irregular cross-bands, generally edged with white behind. Numer-
ous small spots of reddish-brown. Tail annulated with blackish-
brown.
/
STN. — Platydactylus, delalandii, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. Ill, 1836, 324. — GERV.
in Bull. Soc. Philom. 1839; &, in Well & Berth. Hist. nat. Canar. II, ii, 1836,
Kept. 5.
Ascalabotes delalandii, FITZ. Syst. Kept. 1843, 102.
Tarentola delalandii, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 165.
OBSERV. — One specimen, collected at Cape de Verde Islands, was
drawn and colored from life. We are glad that such a valuable acqui-
sition to herpetology should have found a place on the Atlas accompa-
nying this Report.
The ground color of the upper regions is greyish-brown, darker
along the middle line of the back and top of the head than on the
sides. Small reddish-brown spots are disposed upon longitudinal
series on the body, irregularly scattered upon the legs and toes, and
arranged upon the tail according to the structure of that organ. The
irregular cross-bands are quite obsolete; the white edges, if they
existed, are no longer seen. Beneath, the color is whitish or straw-
colored, maculated with reddish-brown.
Loc. — San Jago, Cape de Verde Islands.
Plate XXV, fig. 1, represents Ascalabotes delalandii, size of life.
Fig. 2, is an upper view of the head ;
73
290 SAURIA.
Fig. 3, its profile; and, — fig. 4, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 5, the left hand, from above;— fig. 6, the same, from beneath.
Fig. 7, a group of dorsal scales.
Fig. 8, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 2-8, are somewhat magnified.
GENUS GEKKO, LAUR.
GEN. CHAR. — Pupil vertical. Back scaly, with scattered larger tuber-
cles. Femoral pores, but no preanal ones. Tail subquadrangular.
Fingers and toes free, unequal, dilated towards their extremity, pro-
tected beneath with continuous, transverse plates ; the last joint short,
compressed, inflexed, clawed. Thumbs without the last joint, hence
clawless.
SYN. — Gekko, LAUR. Synops. Kept. 1768, 43. — MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820,
39.
Gecko, BAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. IV, 1802, 105.— OPPEL, Kept. Prodr. 1811, 23. —
Cuv. Regn. Anim. II, 1817, 44.— GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 160.
OBSERV. — This genus corresponds, to a certain degree, to the
Division B, " Heterolepidotes fissipedes, Tetronyx" which Messrs.
Dum£ril & Bibron have established in their genus Platydadylus^
1. GEKKO INDICUS, Grd.
(Plate XVI, figs. 9-16.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Longitudinal rows of large and distant tubercles on the
back, with imbricated, quadrangular, and smooth scales. A series
of hexagonal, large gular shields in front, under the lower labials.
Color greyish-blue, spotted with orange-red.
SYN. — Salamandra indica, BONT. in Piso: Ind. utr. re nat. et med. 17 . . , 57.
Gekko ctylonicus, SEBA, Thes. Nat. I, 1734, 170. Tab. CVIII, fig. 1-9.
Lacerta gecko, LINN. Mus. Adolph. Fred. I, 1754, 46; &, Syst. Nat. I, ed. XII", 1766,
365.— GM. Linn. Syst. Nat. ed. XIII", 1788, 1068.— SHAW, Gen. Zool. Ill, 1802, 264.
PI. LXXVII.
L. yuttata, HERMANN, Obs. Zool. Posth. 1804, 156.
Gekko teres, LAUR. Synops. Kept. 1768, 44.
GEKKO INDICUS. 291
Gekko verticillatus, LAUR. Synops. Kept. 1768, 44.
Gecko guttatus, DAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. IV, 1802, 122. PI. XLIX. — Cuv. Regn.
Anim. II, 1817, 46; 2d ed. II, 1829, 53; &, ed. illustr. Kept. 75.
Gekko veru», MERE. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 42.
Geclco vents, GRAY, Zool. Journ. HI, 1827, 223; &, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 160.
G. annulatug, KUHL, Beitr. Zool. u. vergl. Anat. 1820, 132.
Platydactylus guttatus, DUM. & BIBE. Erpet. gen. Ill, 1836, 328. PI. xxvm, fig. 4.
— GUER. Iconogr. Regn. Anim. 1834. PI. xm.
Salamandrt on Gecko de Linneus, KNORR, Delic. Nat. II, 1767. Tab. LVI, fig. 3.
Gecko d youttelettes, DAUD. ; — Cuv.
OBSERV. — This species having been so often described, and so badly
illustrated, herpetologists will welcome the accompanying figure, drawn
from life in February, 1842.
After introducing such figures as are given on Plate XVI, any
further description becomes superfluous. The large eye, the well-
developed auricular aperture, the aspect of the upper surface of the
head, the series of large gular shields lining the lower labial plates,
the preanal pores, the upper and lower surface of the digits, and the
scales of the back and of the belly, are represented as truthfully as art
could attain. The inferior surface of the head and that of the tail,
alone, are not exhibited in a structural point of view : the former is
covered with small, subcircular, or polygonal scales, and the latter,
provided with a median series of larger plates.
As to the coloration, the authors are somewhat at variance. The
specimen before us exhibits a greyish-blue ground on the upper surface
of the head, body, limbs, and tail, with a few small patches of a deeper
blue along the back, and spotted all over with orange-red : the spots
on the head uniting occasionally into sinuous lines. The dorsal region
is lighter. The tail is semi-annulated with the same tint. The upper
surface of the toes is of a light saffron-yellow, transversely barred
with orange. The inferior surface of the animal is of a uniform
whitish-yellow.
Loc. — From a small island in Balabac Strait, near China Seas,
Plate XVI, fig. 9, represents Geltko indicm, size of life.
Fig. 10, is an upper view of the head ;
Fig. 11, a lower view of the same.
Fig. 12, the vent, in order to show the preanal pores.
Fig. 13, upper surface of the second toe ;
292
S A U R I A.
Fig. 14, lower surface of the same.
Fig. 15, a group of dorsal scales.
Fig. 16, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 13-16 are somewhat magnified.
2. GEKKO MONABCHUS, Gray.
SPEC. CHAR. — Numerous conical tubercles on the back, and small, flat,
polygonal scales. Ground color brown, with two longitudinal dorsal
series of black spots. Beneath white.
STN. — Platydactylws monarchus, SCHLEG. Mus. Leyd. — DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen.
Ill, 1836, 335.
Gecko monarchus, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 161.
OBSERV. — The head is quite depressed, nearly wedge-shaped, sub-
conical anteriorly, and quite broad across the temporal regions. There
are two elongated mental shields, constituting one pair, on each side
of which may be seen two or three hexagonal small plates ; the sub-
gular scales adjoining being also somewhat larger than the rest. The
auricular aperture is vertically oblong, and rather large. The sides of
the neck exhibit several irregular folds. The upper surface of the
body and limbs is covered with very small, smooth and polygonal
scales, and numerous small conical tubercles irregularly dispersed
over the body and limbs, whilst on the tail, they are disposed upon
verticils : here the polygonal scales are likewise larger. A fold
of the skin extends from the axillae to the groins, separating the
dorsal from the abdominal region. Here the scales are much larger
than on the back, subquadrangular, or rather lozenge-shaped, nearly
equal : those on the chest being somewhat smaller ; under the throat,
they are smaller still, and under the head, almost granular ; under
the arm and in the axilla, granular also, increasing somewhat under
the forearm ; under the thighs and legs, they maintain good propor-
tions, in the midst of which, a series of sixteen or eighteen pores dis-
tinctly appears along each thigh, not continuous upon the interfemoral
region. On the posterior surface of the thigh, the scales assume a
granular aspect.
The tail itself is longer than the body and head together, subquad-
rangular upon its base, conical, and tapering posteriorly. A series of
HOPLODACTYLUS. 293
transversely elongated plates or scutellae may be observed along its
under surface.
The color of the upper regions is brown, with two longitudinal series
of black spots, one on each side of the dorsal line, and which may be
traced along the tail, the spots combining into one patch upon the
conical portion of the same organ, giving to it a semi-annulated appear-
ance. One or more, indistinct series of smaller spots, may be observed
along the sides of the back, extending even over the limbs, where they
have a tendency to assume a transverse arrangement. The inferior
regions are unicolor, of a dull whitish hue.
Loc. — Singapore.
GENUS HOPLODACTYLUS, FITZ.
GEN. CHAR. — Body elongated, rather slender, and depressed. Back
minutely granular ; abdomen protected by small and smooth scales.
Head depressed, subconical anteriorly, granular. Pupil vertical.
Nostrils lateral. Auricular aperture large, simple. Labial plates
diminishing posteriorly, extending as far as the posterior ritn of the
orbit. No mental shields. Chin covered with small plates ; throat
minutely granular. Limbs moderately developed. Palms and soles
minutely scaly. Fingers and toes, five, unequal, dilated, with trans-
verse and simple plates beneath; last joint compressed, inflexed, in-
serted above the dilated edge of the antepenultimate joint. Tail of
moderate development, subcylindrical, tapering, provided, on each
side of the base, with spine-like scales. A patch of interfemoral
pores disposed upon several ogees. Femoral pores wanting.
Sw.—Hoplodactylus, FITZ. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 100.
Pentadactylus, GKAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 160.
OBSERV. — The history of this genus is more or less interwoven with
that of Naultinus. J. E. Gray does not appear to have understood
these genera, though both of them are of his own creation. We are
compelled, however, to substitute Fitzinger's name for Gray's, as having
priority. They bear to each other close affinities in many structural
points ; the chief difference between the two resides in the structure
of the toes.
74
0ITI7BRSIT7
294
S A'U'RI A.
The genus includes a portion of the " Homolepidotes fissipedes,
Pentonyx" of Dume'ril & Bibron : their Platydactylus duvaucelii belongs
to it. Naultinus pacificus, of Gray (Zool. Misc. 1842, 58), is a true
Gehyra ; the species referred to under the same name in Dieffenbach's
" Travels into New Zealand, II, 1843, 203," and subsequently called
N, granulatus,* may, after all, prove to be identical with the species
described below, but since its identity cannot be established upon the
published documents, we had to resort to a new name to record the
latter. Naultinus brevidactylus, Gray, and N. maculatus, Gray, place
us in the same perplexity towards the species we are going to describe,
the toes of which being anything but short. At any rate, all the
species named by J. E. Gray, and referred to the group of brown colors
in his genus Naultinus, belong to the genus Hoplodadylus, which is a
Platydactylian.
As to Gecko pacificus, Gray (Brit. Mus.), we cannot otherwise ac-
count for except as a synonym to Naultinus pacificus, of the same
writer, and hence goes to Gehyra also.
HOPLODACTYLUS POMARII, Grd.
(Plate XVIII, figs. 10-16.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Scutis mentalibus nullis, et in loco eorum scutellis mini-
mis. Squamis dbdominalibus minutissimis, subcircularibus vel sub-
rhomboidalibus. Supra fusco-rubro, cum maculis atris elongatis,
plus minusve confluentibus, in series longitudinales ordinatis; infra
dnereo, unicolori.
SPEC. CHAR. — No mental shields, instead of which some very small
plates. Abdominal scales very small, subcircular, or subrhomboid.
Upper regions of a dark reddish ground, over which are arranged,
longitudinally elongated, black blotches, more or less confluent.
Beneath greyish, unicolor.
STN. — Hoplodactylus pomarii, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November,
1857.
DESCR. — The head is well developed, elongated, depressed, subcon-
* Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 273.
HOPLODACTYLUS POMARII. 295
cave upon the middle, and, when seen from above, has the shape of
an acute triangle rounded at the summit. Its upper surface is minutely
granular upon the posterior region ; the granules being somewhat
larger on the frontal and rostral regions. The internasal space is
covered with ten or twelve small hexagonal plates : the middle ones
being a little larger than the peripheric. The nostrils are conspicu-
ous, lateral, situated immediately behind the rostral plate and above
the first labial. The rostral plate itself is rather large, parallelo-
gramic, nearly twice as long as deep, subconcave upon its upper edge.
The upper labials are thirteen on either side, anteriorly deeper than
long, and diminishing gradually backwards to the last one, which is a
minute plate. The symphyseal is smaller than the rostral, subtrian-
gular in shape, and entirely inclosed by the first pair of lower labials,
of which there are eleven or twelve pairs equally diminishing back-
wards, so as to make of the last a very small plate ; they extend a
little further back than the upper labials; the anterior two are much
deeper than long : the third being nearly subquadrangular ; the rest
diminish suddenly from the fourth, besides tapering off posteriorly.
There are no mental shields, properly so called : the chin is protected
by very small, subhexagonal plates. The rest of the under surface of
the head, the throat, and neck is minutely granulated. The sides of the
neck exhibit a few oblique folds, being covered, as well as its upper
surface, with minute granules, like those of the posterior region of
the head. The auricular aperture is rather large, and obliquely sub-
elliptical. The eyes are large and circular, the eyelid being provided
with small, subconical, erect, granular scales : the pupil is vertical.
The body is elongated, subcylindrical, depressed, covered above
with small granules, slightly larger than on the posterior portion of
the head and neck. The pectoral and abdominal regions exhibit very
small, equal, subrhomboid, or subcircular scales, somewhat larger upon
the interfemoral region, where they are perforated : the pores being
disposed upon five ogees, closely set together, and fitting into one an-
other : the exterior one, the largest, being composed of fourteen pores.
The limbs are well developed, though slender ; the anterior pair
extending over two-thirds of the distance towards the groins, when
stretched backwards alongside the body ; and the posterior pair
three-fourths, towards the axillae, when dealt with in an analogous
manner. The supero-posterior surface of the arms, forearms, legs,
thighs, and tarsi, is granular, whilst their antero-inferior surface, as
296 S A U R I A.
also that of the carpi, palms, and soles, are covered with very small
scales. The fingers and toes are slender, unequal, covered above with
small scales, and protected beneath with transverse, slightly curved,
undivided plates. The last joint, in all, is slender and compressed,
scaly, and terminated by a small, acute, and curved nail.
The tail, in the specimen before us, is reproduced, so that its abso-
lute length cannot be determined with certainty ; it is thickish, and
depressed at the base, conical, and tapering off posteriorly ; its base,
above and sideways, is granular, whilst inferiorly may be observed
small rhomboid scales, as well as three conical, spine-like processes,
forming a group on either side, the points directed backwards ; the
rest of the organ appears to be covered with verticils of small, elongated,
and narrow scales.
The upper regions exhibit a dark reddish-orange ground, over which
are distributed, black, elongated patches, contiguous upon their ex-
tremities, so as to simulate longitudinal bands or series; these spots
are likewise contiguous upon their sides, so as to give somewhat the
appearance of transverse interrupted bands. The head and limbs are
marmorated with black. Beneath, the color is of a uniform greyish-
red or brown. The small spines on the sides of the tail are : the two
uppermost, white; the lowermost, black.
LOG. — Brought on board by King Pomare, in March, 1840, while
the Expedition was tarrying at the Bay of Islands, New Zealand.
Plate XVIII, fig. 10, represents Hoplodactylus pomarii, size of life.
Fig. 11, is the upper surface of the head.
Fig. 12, an inferior view of the same region.
Fig. 13, one toe, seen from above ;
Fig. 14, the same, seen from beneath.
Fig. 15, a group of dorsal granules ;
Fig. 16, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 13-16, are somewhat magnified.
GBNUS DIPLODACTYLUS, GRAY.
GEN. CHAR. — Back and belly granular. Fingers and toes five, all
clawed, truncated at the tip ; under surface with a few broad or
DIPLODACTYLUS VITTATUS. 297
roundish plates ; with two oval, convex, rather thick ones at the
extremity. Tail round or fusiform, with rings of small scales, simi-
lar above and below. No femoral or interfemoral pores.
STN. — Diplodactylus, GRAY, Proc. of Comm. of Sc. and Corres. of Zool. Soc. Lond.
II, 1832, 40; &, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 148.— FITZ. Syst. Kept. 1843, 94.—
TSCH. Faun. Peruan. 1845, 37.
OBSERV. — Allied to Phyllodactylua by the general structure and
conformation of its fingers and toes. This genus differs from the one
just alluded to by the absence of large tubercles, intermingled with
the dorsal granules, by its cylindrical tail, instead of being depressed,
also by the uniformity of its scales above and below. The absence of
mental shields is also a feature not to be overlooked when both of these
genera are compared together.
DIPLODACTTLUS VITTATUS, Gray.
(Plate XXIV, figs. 9-16.)
SPEC. CHAR. — No mental shields. Three anterior lower labial plates
very large ; the rest very small. Symphyseal not inclosed by the
adjoining labials. An oblique series of three or four small tubercles
on each side of the base of the tail. Brown, with a pale dorsal
band ; sides of the body, limbs, and tail, yellow-spotted. Beneath
uniform dull white.
STN. — Diplodactylus vittatus, GRAY, Proc. of Comm. of Sc. and Corresp. of Zool.
Soc. Lond. II, 1832, 40 ; &, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 148.— FITZ. Syst. Kept.
1843, 94.
Phyllodactylus vittatus, BUM. & BiBR. Erpet. gen. Ill, 1836, 400.
DESCR. — We have before us one specimen of this species, admirably
preserved, measuring about three inches and a half from the apex of
the snout to the tip of the tail : the head and neck together giving
nearly an inch, and the tail, an inch and a quarter.
The head itself is broader than deep posteriorly ; the snout taper-
ing into an acute angle, rounded at the summit. The temples are
rounded, and the occipital region subconvex, whilst the interocular
space is depressed or subconcave, and the snout very declivous side-
75
298
S A U E I A.
ways, as well as anteriorly, giving the portion in advance of the eye
a rather wedge-shaped appearance. The mouth is deeply cleft ; the
gape raised posteriorly, where it approximates the orbits. The eye
is large and subcircular : the pupil being likewise circular and very
large. The longest, or horizontal diameter of the eye, enters once and
a half along the space between the orbit and the extremity of the
snout, and twice upon the middle of the interocular region. The
auricular aperture is very small and circular.
The rostral plate is subquadrangular, somewhat longer than deep.
There are two small and angular internasal plates, in contact with
the rostral. The nostrils are lateral, and situated in a recess formed
by the first labial plate, the rostral, and the internasal. The upper
labial plates are subquadrangular, diminishing gradually in size from
the anterior one to the ninth, which is situated opposite the middle of
the -pupil ; these are followed by three or more small subelliptical
plates tapering into granules. The symphyseal, somewhat smaller
than the rostral, is triangular, with its summit truncated ; it is not
entirely inclosed by the first pair of lower labials. The latter, number
twelve on either side : the three anterior pairs being considerably larger
than the rest, which diminish gradually towards the angles of the
mouth. There are no mental shields, properly so called : the area
adjoining the labial plates exhibits very small, hexagonal, or poly-
gonal plates, whilst the rest of the under surface of the head is
minutely granular. The upper surface of the head, between the eyes
and the apex of the rostrum, is protected by small, hexagonal, or
polygonal plates, whilst the posterior region is minutely granular.
The sides and upper surface of the neck are covered with still smaller
granules than the head itself.
The body is subcylindrical, apparently deeper than broad, and
granular : along the dorsal region, the granules are slightly larger
than laterally, increasing somewhat in size along the lumbar region,
where they assume the aspect of small polygonal plates. The abdo-
men exhibits small, hexagonal, or rhombic, granule-like scales, largest
upon the interfemoral region.
The limbs are quite slender : the anterior pair still more so than
the posterior pair ; their upper surface, to the very tip of the toes, is
covered with granules similar to those of the body ; and, their inferior
surface, the fingers and toes not included, exhibit the same granule-
like scales observed on the abdomen. The fingers and toes are
DISCODACTYLUS. 299
unequal ; the inner ones smallest, truncated upon their extremity,
where a slender and curved nail may be seen, situated in a small
groove. All along the middle of their inferior surface are distributed
small, transversely elongated, or subcircular plates, two of which,
rather thick and convex, occupying symmetrically the extremity, one
on each side of the nail. These subdigital plates are more or less
regularly arranged, with intervening minute granules.
The tail is subcylindrical, fusiform, tapering into a point, and
covered with small, angular, polygonal scales, disposed upon circular
series, subequal and similar above and below.
The color is brown above, with a dorsal pale or yellowish band or
streak, subbifurcated upon the occiput, where broadest, and extending
to the base of the tail. A stripe of rather dark brown, extends from
the sides of the head along the margin of the dorsal streak. The rest
of the sides of the body and upper surface of the limbs is dotted with
yellow. The upper surface of the tail exhibits a double series of pale
spots surrounded with black dots. Beneath, the color is of a uniform
dull white, or light olive.
Loc. — Southeastern Australia.
Plate XXIV, fig. 9, represents Diplodactylm vittatus, size of life.
Fig. 10, is an upper view of the head ;
Fig. 11, its profile ; and,
Fig. 12, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 13, is the left hand, from above ;
Fig. 14, the same hand, from below.
Fig. 15, a group of dorsal granules;
Fig. 16, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 10-16, are somewhat magnified.
GENUS DISCODACTYLUS, FITZ.
GEN. CHAR. — Fingers and toes five, free, subcylindrical, clawed, with
one series of small plates beneath, and dilated at the apex into a
double disk, separated beneath by a groove, in which the claw is
situated. Palms and soles granular. Body moderately elongated ;
limbs well developed. Neither femoral nor preanal pores. Tail
300
S A U R I A.
more or less elongated. Back covered with granules and tubercles.
Abdomen scaly.
gTN. — Discodactylut, FITZ. Syst. Kept. 1, 1843, 95. — TSCH. Faun. Peruan. 1845, 38.
OBSEEV. — The species of this genus are still united with those of
Phyllodactylus by some modern writers. If the generic characters
attributed to them are constant, there is no reason why Disoodactyliis
should not be adopted.
DlSCODACTTLUS PHACOPHORUS, Tsch.
(Plate XXV, figs. 25-32.)
SPEC. CHAR. — -Upper surface of head granular. Two small, internasal,
tubercular plates, not contiguous upon the medial line of the rostrum.
Mental shields small. Twelve dorsal series of small tubercles : six
on either side. Ground color olive-green, above marmorated with
black; beneath lighter, and unicolor.
SYN. — Discodactylus phacophorus, TSCH. Faun. Peruan. Herp. 1845, 38.
DESCR. — The species is apparently one of small size : the largest
specimen which we have examined measuring but one inch and three-
fourths, from the tip of the snout to the vent : the tail being about
equal to the head and trunk combined. The head is proportionally
large, elongated, depressed, tapering anteriorly into an acute, triangu-
lar, wedge-shaped snout. The neck is somewhat contracted, and the
body depressed, convex above, and flat beneath. The upper surface
of the head is subdepressed along its middle, and granular, more
coarsely so than the body. Upon the region in advance of the eyes,
the granules are larger still than on the occiput, interocular region,
and temples. The nostrils are lateral, situated just above the com-
missure between the rostral plate and first labial ; and, superiorly,
upon the internasal space, may be seen two small, tubercular plates,
one above each nostril, and contiguous to the rostral plate, but
sometimes separated from each other upon the middle region of the
snout, especially in the adult. Immediately behind the nostrils, are
DISCODACTYLUS PHACOPHORUS. 3Q1
one or two granules, occasionally a little larger than the rest. The
rostral plate is but moderately developed, somewhat longer than deep,
superiorly convex, and incised upon its middle, which corresponds to
the depression of the cephalic region at large. Nine upper labial
plates may be observed on either side, longer than deep, subquadran-
gular in shape, diminishing gradually to the sixth : the three last
being quite diminutive. The symphyseal plate is larger than the
rostral, prolonged beneath the chin, beyond the first pair of labials,
and therefore not inclosed by the latter ; it is either pentagonal or
hexagonal, under the general shape of an acute triangle whose summit
is directed backwards. The lower labials are seven on either side :
the three anterior considerably larger than the rest ; all diminishing
in size posteriorly; the anterior two pairs being deeper than long ; the
rest, longer than deep. Two small, angular, mental shields, may be
observed, one on each side of the symphyseal, contiguous to the labials ;
there may be an odd small plate connecting the two, in contact with
the apex of the symphyseal. Lining the labials and mental shields,
are some very small plates irregularly arranged, whilst the rest of the
inferior surface of the head is covered with minute granular scales.
The eyes are subcircular and well developed, with a vertical pupil.
The auricular apertures are very small, and vertically elliptical.
The surface of the neck and body is minutely granular, with twelve
longitudinal series of small, subtriangular, depressed, and carinated
tubercles, extending from the occiput to the base of the tail. The
chest and abdomen are protected by subelliptical, smooth scales, of
moderate development, arranged upon regular series, and scarcely
larger upon the interfemoral region, which exhibits no pores at all.
The limbs are quite slender, though proportionally long ; they are
covered with small, somewhat irregular scales to the very extremity
of the fingers and toes, except on the posterior aspect of the arms,
thighs, over the palms and soles, which are granular. The inferior sur-
face of the fingers and toes is provided with a series of small, tuber-
cular plates, either circular or transversely elliptical ; at their dilated
extremity are two thin, dilated, longitudinally subelliptical plates, be-
tween which is a notch or groove, where a minute and inconspicuous
nail is inserted. The tail is conical, slender, simple, and tapering into
a point, protected by small, subrhomboid, conspicuously carinated,
and verticillated scales: the keel stretching beyond their posterior
margin.
76
302 SAURIA.
The colors, as preserved in alcohol, are: deep brown markings, upon
a light brown ground. A sketch made from life, in July, 1839,
exhibits an olive-green ground, a streak of which may be traced along
the middle of the back. The head, the body, and the limbs are vari-
ously mottled with black : in sinuous lines on the head ; simulating
transverse bands, posteriorly tipped or edged with white, along the
back ; in longitudinal broken-up streaks on the sides of the head and
lateral region of the body; in transverse bars upon the limbs; and, in
obsolete half rings along the tail. A conspicuous black streak is
observed from the posterior rim of the orbit to the upper edge of the
auricular aperture. The labial plates are dotted with white, as also
the upper portion of the eyelid. White dots seem likewise to exist
on the sides of the body. Beneath, the hue is lighter and unicolor.
LOG. — Found under stones, on the Amancaes Mountains, Peru.
Plate XXV, fig. 25, represents Discodactylus phacophorus, size of life.
Fig. 26, is an upper view of the head ;
Fig. 27, a profile ; and,
Fig. 28, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 29, is the left hand, from above ;
Fig. 30, the same hand, from beneath.
Fig. 31, a group of dorsal granules and tubercles;
Fig. 32, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 26-32, are somewhat magnified.
GENUS PHYLLURUS, Cuv.
GEN. CHAR. — Back and tail granular, with scattered, larger tubercles;
belly covered with very small scales. No preanal or femoral pores.
Sides with a slight fold of the skin. A few small, internasal plates.
No mental shields. Limbs long and slender. Fingers and toes
slender, unequal, subcircular, compressed, all clawed, with bent
joints, and cross-plates beneath. Tail broad, depressed, contracted
at the base, tapering towards the tip.
PHYLLURUS PLATURUS. 303
.— Phyllurus, Cuv. Regn. Anim. II, 1817, 50; 2d ed. II, 1829, 58; &, ed. illustr.
Kept. 81.— FITZ. Syst. Kept. 1843, 92. — GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 176.
OBSERV. — This genus is not generally admitted by naturalists, who
combine its species with Gymnodactylus. The configuration of the
tail was taken as its chief distinguishing feature by Cuvier, who pro-
posed it. There are other traits now to be adduced in favor of retain-
ing it in the system, and accordingly, we think it ought to be rein-
stated.
PHYLLURUS PLATURUS, Cuv.
SPEC. CHAR. — Nostrils lateral, not contiguous with either the rostral
or labial plates. Two small supero-nasal plates : the anterior one
contiguous to the rostral. Internasal space covered with small,
granular, subhexagonal plates. Upper surface of head granular
and tubei'cular ; under surface of head minutely granular. Tail
smooth beneath, with small, subhexagonal scales. Olivaceous-
brown, lighter beneath than above.
SY.\.— Lacerta platura, SHAW, in White's Journ. Voy. to N. S. Wales, 1790, 246.
PI. xxxni, fig. 2; Nat. Miscell. II, 1791. PI. LXV; &, Gen. Zool. Ill, 1802, 247.
Stellio phyllurus, SCHN. Amphib. Physiol. Spec. II, 1790, 31.
StelUo platurus, BAUD. Hist. Kept. IV, 1802, 24.
Agama platyura, MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 51.
Agama discositra, MERE. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 51.
Phyllurus platurus, Cuv. Regn. Anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 58; &, ed. illuatr. Kept. 81.
PI. xx bis, fig. 2.— GUER. Iconogr. Regn. Anim. I, 1834. PI. xiv, fig. 1.— GRIFF.
Cuv. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 151.— FITZ. Syst. Rept. 1843, 92.— GRAY, Catal. Lizz.
Brit. Mus. 1845, 176.
Gymnodaclylus platurus, WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 144.
Cyrtodactylus platurus, GRAY, Synops. Rept. in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 52.
Gecko platicaudus, SCHINZ. Xaturg. Abbild. Rept. 1833, 75. Tab. xvu.
Gymnodactylus phyllurus, DUM. & BIBB. Erpet. gen. Ill, 1836,428. — Journ. Navig.
Thetis & Esper. 1837, PL XLIH.
Phyllurus cuvieri, BORY, Diet. Class, d'hist. nat. VII, 1825, 183 (fig.).
Lezard discosure, LACEP. Ann. Mus. d'hist. nat. IV, 1804, 191.
OBSERV. — This species, owing to its uncommon aspect, has often
attracted the attention of naturalists and iconographists, so that we
may say that it is pretty generally well known. It is well repre-
304
S A U R I A.
sented in the Atlas of the "Journal de la Navigation Autour du Monde
de la fregate la Th6tis et de la corvette 1'Esperance, by Captain Bou-
gainville," as also in several other works, referred to in the synonymy,
in which its description may likewise be found. We might enlarge
upon this subject, had we had at our command Phyllurus inermis and
P. miliusii, both belonging, apparently, to the same genus.
LOG. — Specimens were procured in Southeast Australia : they were
found about rocks, in the Botanic Garden of Sydney.
GENUS GONIODACTYLUS, KUHL.
GEN. CHAR. — Back granular, with scattered or serial tubercles. Belly
covered with six-sided or elliptical, smooth scales. Males with two
parallel longitudinal rows of interfemoral pores. One pair of mental
shields. Lower labials numerous. Fingers and toes very slender,
much compressed, elongated, with cross-plates beneath. Tail cylin-
drical, tapering, ringed, with cross-series of tubercles.
.— Goniodactylus, KUHL, MS.— WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph.1830, 144.— SCHLEO.
Abbild. Amph. 1838.— FITZ. Syst. Kept. 1843, 92 & 93.
OBSERV. — The limits here assigned to this genus do not appear to
us altogether satisfactory, the scarcity of materials not having per-
mitted extending our investigations.
GONIODACTTLTJS MARMORATUS, Kuhl.
SPEC. CHAR. — Nostrils lateral, situated above the first labial plate.
Two pairs of internasals : anterior one largest, and interposed
between the rostral and the nostril. Small tubercles scattered over
the posterior part of the head, back, sides, limbs, and tail. A tri-
angular symphyseal, inclosed by a pair of subtrapezoid mental
shields. Brown, marmorated above with black ; beneath unicolor.
HETERONOTA. 305
SYN. — Goniodactylus marmoratm, KUHL. MS. — SCHLEG. Abbild. Amph. 1838.
Tab. ii.
Cyrtodactylus marmoratus, GRAY, Synops. Kept, in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831,
51 ; &, Catal. Lixz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 173.
Gymnodactylus marmoratus, DDM. & BlBR. Erp4t. gen. HI, 1836, 426.
OBSERV. — The unique specimen of this species which we have had
an opportunity of examining, measures an inch and a half, the tail not
included : it is therefore immature. The adult has been well illus-
trated by Schlegel.
The rostral plate is small and subpyramidal ; immediately behind it,
is a pair of subquadrangular internasals, contiguous upon their medial
line, and extending also in advance of the nostrils, so as to officiate as
prenasals, preventing the nostrils from approaching the rostral. A
quite small pair of flattened supero-nasals may be observed, separated
on the middle line of the rostrum, though contiguous to the anterior
pair. A small, odd plate may also be observed at the commissure of
the large internasals. There are ten upper labials on either side, quad-
rangular, longer than deep, and diminishing gradually posteriorly.
The symphyseal is small and subtriangular, inclosed posteriorly by a
pair of subtrapezoid, mental shields. Small, slender, elongated plates
may be seen lining the lower labials, which are ten or eleven on each
side, diminishing backwards; the five anterior considerably larger
than the rest.
With the above few remarks we must dismiss this species, regret-
ting that we had no adult specimen to enable us giving an elabo-
rate description of it.
LOG. — Mangsi Island, Philippine Group.
GBNUS HETERONOTA, GRAY.
GEN. CHAR. — Symphyseal plate very large, and two small, mental
shields. Back granular, with longitudinal series of angular tuber-
cles. Belly protected by small, ovate, and keeled scales. Males
with minute, interfemoral pores, disposed upon an arched series.
Fingers and toes unequal, very slender, compressed, versatile, with
cross-plates beneath. Tail subcylindrical, tapering, with cross-series
of keeled scales.
77
306 S A U R I A.
SYN. — Heteronota, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mas. 1845, 174.
OBSERV. — This genus is closely allied to Cyrtodactylus, from which
it differs by the presence of keeled scales on the abdomen and around
the tail. The great development of the symphyseal plate was con-
sidered as its chief feature by John Edward Gray, by whom it was
instituted.
HETERONOTA PELAGICA, Grd.
(Plate XXIV, figs. 25-32.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Naribus lateralibus, super commissuram inter scutum ros-
tralem et primum labialem sitis. /Scutis internasalibus duobus, quad-
rangularibus et contiguis; scuto postnasali minima, tubercidifonui.
Scutis mentalibus duobus, parvis. Tuberculis dorsucdibus in duode-
viginti series longitudinals ordinatis. Supra fusca, nigro maculata ;
infra unicolori.
SPEC. CHAR. — Nostrils lateral, situated above the commissure between
the rostral plate and the first labial. One pair of quadrangular inter-
nasals, contiguous, and a small, tubercular postnasal. One pair
of small mental shields. Eighteen longitudinal series of tubercles.
Brown, maculated above with black ; beneath unicolor.
SYN. — Heteronota pelagica, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
DESCR. — The head is depressed, subovoid when viewed from above ;
the neck is contracted, and the body depressed also, broader than deep.
The tail is elongated, subcylindrical, tapering into a point, and nearly
as long as the body and head together. The rostral plate is subquad-
rangular, slightly longer than deep, subconcave upon the middle of its
upper edge ; the nostrils are situated in a little depression, immedi-
ately behind its upper angle, contiguous beneath to the commissure of
the first labial ; above, it is limited first, by a pair of subquadrangular
internasal plates, which are contiguous upon the middle line of the
rostrum, and secondly by a quite small, tubercular postnasal, which
is contiguous to the internasal. There are ten upper labials, longer
HETERONOTA PELAGICA. 3Q7
than deep : the five anterior are well developed ; all diminishing in
size posteriorly. The symphyseal is much larger than the rostral,
subpentagonal or subtriangular, and produced under the chin, beyond
the labials ; its posterior extremity is not surrounded by any plate.
Two very small mental shields may be observed, one on each side,
and not contiguous to the labials, from which they are separated by
the minute and uniform granules observed all over the inferior surface
of the head. The lower labials are eight on either side : the first pair
being a little smaller than the second and third ; the four anterior
pairs considerably larger than the rest, are longer than deep. The eyes
are subelliptical and well developed, whilst the auricular aperture is
small and subcircular. The upper surface of the head is granular,
finely so upon its posterior portion, including the temples, and over
which the tubercles extend, and more coarsely anteriorly, where the
granules become scale-like, exhibiting at the same time, traces of
carination. Similar, carinated, scale-like granules may be observed
upon the cheeks, between the eye and the ear, and under the jaws and
neck also. The sides of the upper surface of the neck are granular and
tubercular. The granules over the back and sides are pretty uniform,
mayhap, not quite so crowded upon the sides, and somewhat smaller.
The tubercles themselves are nearly equal, except towards the head
and neck, where they are somewhat smaller; they constitute eighteen
longitudinal series, nine on either side, across the middle region of
the body ; they diminish in number as they approximate the tail,
beyond the base of which they do not extend. In shape, they are
subconical or subtriangular, their surface being distinctly striated.
The granules themselves appear striated. The chest and belly are
covered with uniform ovate scales, with a few larger ones upon the
interfemoral region, all distinctly keeled.
The limbs are slender ; their surface is covered with small, scale-
like, and keeled granules, with scattered tubercles over the posterior
pair. The axillae, groins, palins, and soles are finely granular. The
posterior aspect of the thighs exhibits these tubercles in the midst of
minute granules. The upper surface of the fingers and toes is
minutely granular; their under surface being provided with transverse
thickish plates.
The tail is protected by subhexagonal and conspicuously keeled
scales, larger than on the abdomen, and arranged upon circular series,
else subverticillated.
S A U R I A.
The ground color is of a deep brown, maculated with black, so as to
simulate transverse, undulating, dark bands over the back and limbs,
longitudinal .streaks over the head and neck, and half rings over the
tail : the posterior margin of these dark bands or patches being light-
lined. The commissures of the labial plates are whitish, as well as the
upper aspect of the phalanges. Beneath, the color is uniformly brown.
Loc. — Feejee and Navigator Islands.
Plate XXIV, fig. 25, represents Heteronota pelayica, size of life.
Fig. 26, is the head seen from above ;
Fig. 27, its profile; and,
Fig. 28, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 29, the left hand, from above;
Fig. 30, the same hand, from below.
Fig. 31, a group of dorsal granules.
Fig. 32, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 26-32, are somewhat magnified.
GENUS NAULTINUS, GRAY.
GEN. CHAR. — Body of moderate length, stoutish, and depressed. Back
granular or subgranular ; abdomen protected by very small and
smooth scales. Head depressed, rather broad posteriorly, and granu-
lar, subconical anteriorly, and covered with small, roundish, or sub-
hexagonal plates. Pupil vertical. Nostrils lateral, subterminal.
Auricular aperture moderate, simple. Labial plates diminishing
posteriorly, not extending to the angle of the mouth. No mental
shields. Chin and throat minutely granular. Limbs moderately
developed. Fingers and toes five, unequal, tapering, clawed, de-
pressed, except the last joint, which is compressed; protected beneath
by transverse and simple plates. Tail well developed, subcylindri-
cal, depressed, posteriorly tapering, superiorly granular, scaly beneath,
provided, on each side of its base, with two or four spine-like scales.
Femoral pores disposed upon one or two series ; interfemoral pores in
patches or ogees.
NAULTINUS PUNCTATUS. 3Q9
STN.— XaHltinus, GRAY, Zool. Misc. 1842, 72; in Die/. Trav. into N. Zeal. II, 1843,
202 ; &, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mas. 1845, 169.
Kakariki, Natives of Xew Zealand.
OBSEBV. — Whether Naultinus elegans and N. graii are really dis-
tinct from one another, as well as from the species described further
on, we are not prepared to tell from direct observations. They are,
at any rate, very closely allied, all of which being, so far as known,
natives of New Zealand. Their coloration assumes various shades of
green, sometimes purplish or pinkish, with paler spots.
The brown species alluded to in the " Catalogue of Specimens of
Lizards in the Collection of the British Museum," have been trans-
ferred to the genus Hoplodactylus.
The genus Naultinus is a Stenodactylian : hence, widely distinct
from Hoplodactylus, which, as already stated, is a Platydactylian.
NAULTINUS PUXCTATUS, Gray.
(Plate XVI, figs. 17-26.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Femoral pores disposed upon a double series; inter-
femoral pores, upon a large patch. Four ovate, subconical scales, on
either side of the base of the tail, arranged upon an oblique series.
Bright green, with very small, scattered, black specks.
SYX. — XaultiiiKs punctatus, GRAY, in Die/. Trav. into N. Zeal. II, 1842, 204 ; &,
Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 170.
DESCR. — The general aspect of this species is rather short and thick-
ish, than slender and elongated. The head is very much depressed,
very broad across the temporal regions, tapering towards the snout,
under the shape of an acute triangle when viewed from above. The
neck is somewhat contracted, and the body depressed, much broader
than deep, especially in full-grown specimens. The legs are stoutish,
though rather short ; the anterior pair being nearly as large as the
posterior pair. The tail is elongated, subcouical, slightly depressed,
and longer than the body and head together.
73
310
S A U R I A.
The rostral plate is quite low, much longer than deep, incised upon
its upper margin, and occasionally entirely subdivided into two labial-
like plates. The upper labials, themselves, are from eleven to thirteen
on either side, deeper than long, subconvex upon their upper edge, and
diminishing gradually in size posteriorly, the last one corresponding to
a vertical line drawn within the posterior rim of the orbit. The ante-
rior pair is a little lower than the second and third, as though the position
of the nostril, immediately above its upper edge, encroached somewhat
upon it. The nostril itself is subcircular, directed obliquely backwards
and outwards, and, since it rests upon the anterior labial, needless to
say that it is lateral. A small, subtrapezoid prenasal, interposes itself
between said aperture and the rostral, extending likewise to the inter-
nasal space, without, however, coming into contact with its fellow,
from which it is separated by a small hexagonal plate. A few, very
small, and irregular plates, complete the rim of the nostril superiorly
and posteriorly. Upon the fronto-nasal space may be observed small,
generally hexagonal plates, extending also laterally to the loral region,
forming sometimes a larger series along the canthus rostralis. The
eye is subcircular, of moderate size, its pupil being vertical, and the
eyelid constituting a complete circular ridge, covered with small gra-
nules. The symphj-seal plate is nearly equal to the rostral in size,
though deeper and narrower upon its buccal margin. The lower labials
are eleven or twelve on either side, shaped like the upper ones,
though more developed, deeper than long, and diminishing gradually
posteriorly : the anterior pair does not extend iuferiorly beyond the
symphyseal, which is not inclosed by them ; the posterior pair corre-
sponds to the last upper labial. There are no mental shields, properly
so called. A few small, subhexagonal plates may be observed under
the chin. The inferior surface of the head is covered with subequal,
granular scales ; the upper surface of the head is likewise granular,
but the granules are unequal, and coarser than on the body. The
sides of the neck appear to be obscurely and irregularly folded, and
finely granular all around. The auricular aperture is rather small
and subcircular. The surface of the body is protected by subequal
granules, subconvex along the dorsal region, and flattened upon the
sides. The belly exhibits small, subrhomboid, or angular scales. A
double series of femoral pores may be traced along the thighs, merging
into an interfemoral group, transversely elongated, but not triangular.
The scales perforated by these pores are somewhat larger than the
NAULTINUS PUNCTATUS. 3H
rest. The limbs are covered with scale-like granules, or granular scales,
as the case may be : and the upper surface of the fingers and toes, with
subimbricated small scales ; whilst their under surface is protected by
transverse, thin, and narrow plates : their margins appear denticulated
or serrated by the raising of the scales adjoining the plates. Four
ovate, subconical scales, are disposed upon an oblique series on each
side of the base of the tail. The tail itself is granular above, like the
back, and scaly beneath, like the belly.
The color of the largest specimen is bright green above (dark green in
spirits), and yellowish-green beneath, with very small, black specks, one
upon the centre of the granules or scales, as the case may be, though
not upon each one. and more conspicuous on the belly than on the
back. A somewhat smaller specimen (altered) is pinkish above, and
pale beneath, with a white streak on each side of the crown. Other
specimens, still smaller (altered), are likewise pinkish above, and pale
beneath, exhibit, on each side of the back, three or four distant, ovate,
white spots, besides the white streaks over the crown. The side of
the head is also of a pale hue.
Loc. — Bay of Islands, New Zealand. Brought on board by the
natives ; hence the inference that the animal is rather rare.
Plate XVI, fig. 17, represents Xaulttnus punctatua, size of life.
Fig. 18, is an upper view of the head ;
Fig. 19, an inferior view of the same.
Fig. 20, a finger, seen from above ;
Fig. 21, the same, seen from beneath.
Fig. 22, a toe, seen from above ;
Fig. 23, the same, seen from beneath.
Fig. 24, the caudal group of conical scales.
Fig. 25, a group of dorsal granules.
Fig. 26, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 18-26, are somewhat magnified.
SAURIA.
FAM. IGUAXIDAE.
The °roup of which we are now to speak, is one which embraces
numerous genera and species, largely represented in the collection
made by the Expedition.
The characters by which it may be distinguished from the other
Saurians, consist in the exclusive presence of scales, either smooth or
carinated, imbricated or not imbricated, covering the entire body,
limbs, and tail, and, in most cases, provided with a dorsal crest, more
or less developed : the abdomen being protected by scales similar in
shape and structure to those of the back, instead of those large, sub-
quadrangular plates, or scutellae, observed in the Crocodiles, Varanids,
and others. The body itself is either compressed or depressed. The
upper surface of the head exhibits small, polygonal plates, instead of
large shields, or small, granular scales. The maxillary teeth are not
driven into the bones, but placed either in a groove or common socket,
else soldered to the edge of the bones themselves. The palate is
either toothed or toothless. The tongue is thick, depressed, fungous ;
its surface is velvet-laced, its apex free, and not retractile into a
sheath ; the eyes being large, protected by movable lids. The auricu-
lar apertures are generally present, and wanting in a few genera. The
fingers and toes are always free, distinct, not palmated, all of which
provided with a claw or nail.
SYN. — lyuanoides, OPPEL, Reptil. Prodr. 1811.
Iguaniens, Cuv. Regn. Anim. II, 1817, 29 ; 2d ed. II, 1829, &, ed. illustr. Kept.
46.— BUM. & BIBR. Erpe-t. gen. IV, 1827, 1.
Iguanina, BONAP. Sagg. Distr. Anim. Vertebr. 1830.
Stellionina, BONAP. Saggio, Dist. Anim. Vertebr. 1830.
Stellionidae, BONAP. Sagg. Distr. Anim. Vertebr. 1830.
lyuanidae, GRAY, Synops. Brit. Mus. 1840 ; &, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 178.
Eunotes, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 1.
Stelliones, FITZ. Syst. Kept. I, 1843.
The family of Iguanids, as above characterized, is subdivided into
two natural groups or subfamilies, according as to whether the teeth
are received into a common groove upon the edge of the jaws, or else
strongly soldered to these very bones : the representatives of the
former inhabit the Old World ; those of the latter, the New World.
MICROLOPHUS. 313
SUBFAM. PLEURODONTES.
The teeth are inserted upon the inner edge of a groove carved in
the jaw bones. The body is either depressed, broader than deep, or
compressed, and deeper than broad. Some genera are provided with
a dorsal crest, which is wanting in others. The same is true with the
palatine teeth, which are present in some, and absent in others.
Svy.—Pleurodonles, WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 147.— DUM. & BIBR. Erpet.
gen. IV, 1837, 33 & 46— DCM. & A. DUM. Catal. rneth. Kept. Mus. d'hist. nat. i,
1851, 54.
OBSERV. — The genera of this group are differently distributed in the
method by the authors just quoted, although they essentially agree upon
the structural character above referred to : the difference arising from
the fact that Wagler subordinates the dentition to the general shape
of the body, which is either broader than deep or depressed (Platy-
cormae), or deeper than broad or compressed (Stenocormae) . Now, we
will find that there are Pleurodonts and Acrodonts amongst both the
Platycorms and Stenocorms.
GENUS MICROLOPHUS, DUM. & BIBR.
GEN. CHAR. — Head subpyramidal, subquadrangular, depressed, covered
with unequal, smooth plates. Occipital plate well developed ; supra-
ocular plates large. Nostrils lateral, rather tubular, situated above
the canthus rostralis. Palatine teeth extant. Auricular aper-
ture denticulated in front. Several cross-folds under the neck, and
an arched fold before each shoulder, meeting on the chest. Body
elongated, subdepressed, rather rounded, with two longitudinal
folds on either side. Scales small, subimbricated, slightly keeled,
or smooth on the back ; larger, imbricated, and smooth on the belly.
Nape, back, and tail with a very low, serrated, or tubercular crest.
Tail long, subconical, covered with subverticillated, carinated, and
rather large scales. No femoral pores. Five fingers and five toes,
unequal, clawed.
79
314
S A TJ R I A.
Svx.—Microlophus, BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 334.— GRAY, Catal. Lizz.
Brit. Mus. 1845, 221.— GUICH. in Gay, Hist, de Chile, Zool. II, 1848, 47.— BUM. &
A. DCM. Catal. meth. Kept. Mus. d'List. nat. i, 1851, 80.
Steirolepis, FITZ. Syst. Kept. 1843, 72.— TSCH. Faun. Peruan. Herp. 1845, 29.
OBSERV. — This genus represents, as it were, in the New World, that
of Brachyloplius, of the Old : both belonging rather to the Austral,
than Boreal Hemisphere. The species it is intended to include not
having been satisfactorily examined, there is some controversy as to
their actual number. Fitzinger adopts six species, three from Peru,
and three from Brazil. We have not had an opportunity to examine
any specimens of the Brazilian species ; of the Peruvian ones, the
Expedition brought home a series of individuals, all identical with
Stellio peruvianus of Lesson. Dum^ril & Bibron admit the existence
of but one species in Peru. Tschudi, himself, who, of all herpetolo-
gists, was most likely to have given us accurate information in that
respect, renders their history still more confused by establishing four
other species upon the coloration alone, under the names of Steirolepis
xanthostigma, S. tigris, S. thoracica, and S. quadrivittata, all from the
coast of Peru.
MICROLOPHUS PERUVIANS, Gray.
SPEC. CHAR. — Scales' on the dorsal region somewhat larger than late-
rally. Nostrils approximating the apex of the snout. Iiiframaxil-
lar shields well developed. Tail longer than the body and head
together. Color olivaceous, speckled, and variegated with black ;
a white or black lateral streak. Under surface of head black, else
exhibiting angular black lines ; rest of the under surface, unicolor.
SYN. — Stellio peruvianus, LESS. Voy. de la Coq. Zool. II, i, 1830, 40. PI. n, fig. 2.
Tropidurus heterolepis, WIEGM. Act. Acad. Nat. Cur. XVII, I, 1835, 225. PI.
XVii, fig. 1.
Microlophus lessonii (in part), BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 336 — GUICH.
in Gay, Hist, de Chile, Zool. II, 1848, 48.
Steirolepis peruvianus, FITZ. Syst. Kept. 1843, 73. — BUM. & A. DUM. Catal. rnetb.
Kept. Mus. d'hist. nat. i, 1851, 81.
Microlophus peruvianus, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 221.
OBSERV. — It is stated, by some systematic writers, that this species
is subjected to variations, not only in its mode of coloration, but even
MICROLOPHUS PERUVIAN US. 315
in several of its structural peculiarities, such as the cephalic plates,
which would be either smooth and not imbricated, or slightly carinated
and subiinbricated, and also the dorsal crest, which would nearly dis-
appear from the middle region of the body. We have examined four
specimens, young and adult, all agreeing in the following particulars :
DESCR. — The cephalic plates are smooth, subconvex, polygonal, un-
equal, and not imbricated; the largest ones (the occipital excepted),
may be seen upon the frontal and supraocular regions ; transversely
elongated upon the latter region, from four to six in number, and dis-
posed upon a curvilinear series ; upon the frontal region, they are
more or less symmetrically arranged, right and left, and irregular in
their outlines. The occipital plate is quite large and conspicuous.
A curvilinear series of moderate plates is observed on each side of the
occipital, extending from the posterior upper angle of the orbit to the
frontal region, passing between the eyes, where they meet, occupying
all the interocular region. The occipital, posteriorly and sideways, is
surrounded by small plates, constituting but one series behind, whilst
laterally, the same small scales extend over the temporal regions, and
a group of them may even be observed anteriorly, in a subtriangular
area, formed by the curvilinear series just alluded to. A similar cur-
vilinear series of small plates borders interiorly the supraocularSj
already mentioned, whilst the anterior and exterior areas of the supra-
ocular region, not occupied by the large plates, are covered with simi-
lar small plates. The supraciliary plates are narrow and elongated,
five or six in number, smallest anteriorly. The nasal plates are of
moderate development : those which the nostrils perforate are the
most conspicuous, and situated near the apex of the snout, just above
a line which would be the prolongation of the supraciliary ridge, and
separated from the rostral by a circle of minute plates. The nostrils
themselves are tubular, and directed outwardly backwards. As to
the rostral plate it is quite low, horizontally elongated, and convex or
subconvex above. The upper labials are narrow and elongated, ten
in number : the seven anterior increasing in size backwards, and fol-
lowed by three quite small and irregular ones, beneath which a series
of minute plates is observed. One series of supralabials is likewise to
be seen, resembling the labials, diminishing backwards, though not
extending beyond the anterior third of the orbit. The phrenic region
is protected by a few plates of moderate development. The sub-
316
S A U R I A.
orbital ridge is composed of an anterior small plate, of a second, long
. and curvilinear, occupying most of the region beneath the eye ; then
come two very small plates, which end the series, nearly opposite the
posterior edge of the orbit. Upon the surface and on the edge of the
eyelids, the plates assume a granular aspect. The auricular apertures
are large and subtriangular: their anterior margin being provided with
projecting and slender scales, which give to it a denticulated or ser-
rated appearance. The inferior surface of the head is covered with
small, subequal, elliptical, and smooth scales. The lower labials
are somewhat larger than the upper, otherwise similar in form and
disposition. The symphyseal is subtriangular or subpentagonal,
deeper, though a good deal shorter, than the rostral. The mental
shields are numerous and well developed, constituting two diverging
series, one under the branch of each jaw ; they diminish in size back-
wards. Between the lower labials and mental shields, may be observed
one or more series of infralabials. Upon the transverse folds of the
neck, the scales are granular, whilst upon the angular pectoral fold,
they are flat, subrhombic, resembling those of the abdominal region.
The body is elongated, somewhat depressed, and rounded. Two
longitudinal folds of the skin may be seen on each side : the upper-
most extending from the auricular aperture to the base of the tail ;
the lower one, from the axilla to the groin. The upper surface and
sides of the neck, the lateral regions of the body, and the posterior
surface of the arms and thighs, are covered with crowded granular
scales. Upon the dorsal region, properly so called, there is a longi-
tudinal area, where the scales, though very small, are flattened, sub-
circular or subrhombic, slightly or conspicuously carinated, disposed
on each side of the dorsal crest, itself composed of small, convex, sub-
equal, and carinated scales, extending from the nape to the anterior
third of the tail, smaller on the nape, and gradually increasing poste-
riorly. The abdominal scales are subequal and smooth, larger on the
middle region than on the sides, towards which they gradually
diminish; they are subrhombic anteriorly, and subcircular posteriorly,
disposed upon transverse series.
The anterior limbs are rather small and slender ; when stretched
alongside the body and bent backwards, the extremities of the fingers
hardly reach the groins. The posterior limbs are more developed, and,
when brought forwards, the extremity of the longest toe may reach the
orbit ; their upper surface is covered with subrhombic and carinated
TARAGUIRA. 317
scales, a good deal larger than those of the dorsal region, larger also
around the forearm and leg than on the arm and thigh ; they are
nearly alike on the carpus and tarsus, palm of the hands, and sole of
the feet ; the only differences observed consist in being more or less
elongated and more or less developed : they are conspicuously smaller
on the palm of the hands. Under the thighs and legs, the scales
resemble in shape those of the abdominal region, as well as in being
smooth ; they are very small upon the interfemoral region and about
the vent also. The fingers and toes are subcircular or subcompressed,
scaly all around, crested beneath, owing to the projection of the keels
beyond the edge of the scales. The nails are compressed, curved, and
acute. The tail is elongated, subconical, and tapering into a point,
somewhat depressed anteriorly. It is protected by rather large, sub-
verticillated, and conspicuously carinated scales, except under its ante-
rior third, where they are smooth; rhombic or subrhombic at the base,
they become subtrapezoid posteriorly, and finely lanceolated towards
the last third of its length.
As to the coloration, we observe that the upper regions, in the male,
are of a very dark olive, without scarcely any spots or other markings,
whilst in the female, the ground hue is a good deal lighter, and over
which are scattered black and white specks, largest upon the limbs
and tail : the upper surface of the head being unicolor. The inferior
regions are of a uniform light tint, except under the head, where
angular dark lines are observed, conspicuous and distinct in the female,
confluent in the male, so as to give to that region an almost uniform
dark appearance. The zone between the lateral folds of the body, is
posteriorly jet-black in some specimens, and yellow or white in others.
Loc. — Peru. " Small specimens were taken as far in the interior
as the hills about Lima ; but, we found it most common, and the
largest and finest specimens, about the stones on the top of the beach,
near the mouth of the Rimac. Lima specimens had oval spots on the
back."
GEXUS TARAGUIRA, GRAY.
GEN. CHAR. — Head depressed, subtriangular from above, covered with
unequal plates, with a rather large occipital, and moderate supra-
oculars. Nostrils lateral, situated immediately above the rostral
ridge, and directed outwardly backwards. A transverse fold under
80
318
S A U R I A.
the neck, and one in advance of the shoulders. Teeth on the palate.
Auricular aperture anteriorly serrated ; tympanum visible. Body
elongated, depressed, without lateral folds, and covered with small,
imbricated scales, keeled on the back, and disposed upon series con-
verging towards the dorsal line, which is not crested. Abdominal
scales smooth. Tail elongated, stout at the base, where depressed,
conical posteriorly, protected by rather large, keeled scales : the
medial series being slightly crested. Limbs of moderate develop-
ment ; fingers and toes unequal. No femoral pores.
.— Tarayuira, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 219.
Ecphymotes, Cuv. (non FITZ.), Regn. Anim. 2d cd. II, 1829, 47. — DUM. & BIBR.
Erpe't. gen. IV, 1837, 342.— DUM. & A. DUM. Catal. meth. Kept. Mus. d'hist. nat. i,
1851, 81.
OBSERV. — Since Ecphymotes, of Fitzinger and Cuvier, appear to be
distinct genera, and that the former author has the priority over the
latter, we must necessarily adopt Taraguira, in order to preserve an
intelligible nomenclature.
TARAGUIRA TORQUATA, Gray.
SPEC. CHAR. — Either olive or greenish-brown above, spotted with
black or olive ; a pale streak on each side of the back, more or less
apparent. A white-edged, black, vertical band in advance of the
shoulder. Chin variegated with irregular dark lines or spots, upon
a light ground. Throat generally blackish. Belly and under sur-
face of limbs and tail unicolor, yellowish, except in the male sex,
in which a zone of small, black spots, may be seen under the thighs ;
each scale bearing one of these spots.
SYN. — Stellio torquatus, MAXIM. Naturh. Reise, in Bras. I, 1817, 139 ; &, Beytr.
Naturg. Bras. I, 1825, 39.
Tropidurus torquatus, MAXIM. Rec. PI. Col. Anim. Bres. 1822. — FITZ. Neue Clas.
Kept. 1826, 49.— WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 147.— GRAY, Synops. Rept. in
Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 41.— WIEGM. Herp. Mex. 1834, 18.— GRAVENH. in
Act. Nat. Cur. XVIII, n, 1838, 754. PI. LVI, figs. 13-16.
Agama tulerculata, SPIX, Spec. nov. Lacert. Bras. 1825, 12. Tab. xv, fig. 1.
Agama hispida, SPIX, Spec. nov. Lacert. Bras. 1825, 12. Tab. xv, fig. 2.
Ayama niyricollaris, Srix, Spec. nov. Lacert. Bras. 1825, 13. Tab. xvi, fig. 2. •
Agama cydura, SPIX, Spec. nov. Lacert. Bras. 1825, 14. Tab. xvii, fig. 1.
TARAGUIRA TORQUATA. 319
. Ecphymotes tuberculatus, Cuv. R&gn. Anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 47. — GUER. Iconogr.
Ri-gn. Auim.
Ayama taraguira, LlCHT. Verz. Doubl. Berl. Mus. 1823, 101.
Tropidurus tuberculatus, GRAY, Synops. Rept. in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 42.
Opiums torquatus, SCHINZ. Nuturg. u. Abbild. Rept. 1833, 89. Tab. XXix, fig. 1.
Et-phymotet torquatus, DtTM. & BlBR. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 344.
Tarayuira torquata, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. AIus. 1845, 220.
DESCR. — The bead is depressed, rather broad behind, and, when
seen from above, appears subtriangular. The occipital region is some-
what depressed, whilst the snout is declivous forwards, though convex.
The cephalic plates are small, unequal, polygonal, and smooth, or
nearly so, there being numerous punctures over their surface ; they
are slightly larger upon the frontal region than on the nasal and
interocular regions, and smallest upon the occipital region, with the
exception of the occipital plate, properly so called, which is well deve-
loped, subpyriform, or polygonal. Two curvilinear series occupy the
interocular region, proceeding from the posterior edge of the orbit, and
losing themselves upon the frontal region. Upon the supraocular
region, we observe two curvilinear series, an internal one, composed
of very small plates, and a second series, of nine transversely elongated
ones, of moderate size, and subhexagonal in shape. The area inclosed
by the latter series and the supraciliaries exhibits five longitudinal
series of much smaller plates, decreasing in size outwardly, smallest
upon their contiguity with the supraciliaries which are six in number :
the five anterior imbricated, diminishing in size posteriorly. The auri-
cular aperture is of moderate size, vertically subelliptical, bordered ante-
riorly by seven spear-shaped, slender scales, simulating a serrated edge.
The temporal region is covered with subrhombic, slightly keeled
scales. The nasal plates are quite conspicuous, contiguous to the
rostral, being situated immediately above the phrenal ridge : the
nostril, which perforates their posterior portion, is directed outwardly
backwards. The rostral is transversely elongated, convex above, and
depressed. The phrenal ridge is composed of three plates : the ante-
rior one being situated under the nasal, and separated from the labials
by the supralabials. The phrenic region itself is protected by a few
irregular plates of moderate size. The suborbital ridge is formed by
four plates : the anterior one being quite small; the second very long,
occupying most of the inferior rim of the orbit, whilst the two poste-
rior are so small as to be scarcely distinguishable from the scales of
320
S A U R I A.
the temporal region. The eyelid is covered with crowded granules,
assuming a pavement-like aspect upon the lower one, on the middle
of which is observed a transparent area. There is but one series of
elongated and unequal supralabials, the middle ones being wider than
the upper labials. The latter, six on either side, are elongated, increas-
ing in size posteriorly to the penultimate one; the seventh being equal
to the first or second : it is followed by three or four, very small, which
are lost in the midst of the scales about the angle of the mouth.
The symphyseal is triangular. The lower labials, six on either side,
are largest anteriorly, gradually decreasing posteriorly ; they are like-
wise followed by three quite small plates, resembling the adjacent
scales. The mental shields are conspicuous ; they consitute two
diverging series, from the symphyseal and the first labial, to which
the anterior shield is contiguous : the former being entirely inclosed
posteriorly by the first pair of these shields, which decrease rapidly in
size backwards, so as to disappear amongst the scales; as many as five
pairs may be distinctly counted. The scales under the head are small,
elongated, and slender anteriorly, sublozenge-shaped posteriorly, and
very small immediately under the throat, where a cross fold of the
skin may be observed. Two oblique and conspicuous folds are seen
on each side of the neck : the posterior one situated immediately in
advance of the shoulder. The scales on these folds are quite small,
granular, and subgranular.
The body is elongated, depressed : the back being subconvex, and
the belly flat. There is no dorsal crest or ridge. The dorsal scales
are small, carinated, imbricated, subrhombic, or sublozenge-shaped,
disposed, along the dorsal region, upon longitudinal series, converging
towards the medial line of the back ; they diminish in size towards
the flanks, upon the lower portion of which they constitute trans-
verse series, becoming granular about the axillae and groins. The
flanks, themselves, exhibit no longitudinal fold of the skin. The
abdominal scales are smooth, disposed upon transverse and oblique
series; subrhombic upon the chest and under the pelvis, subtrapezoid
on the abdomen, properly so called ; in size nearly equal to those of
the medial region of the back, except on the chest and in advance of
the shoulders, where they are somewhat larger.
The limbs are of moderate development : the anterior pair, when
extended backwards alongside the body, reach the groins with the
extremities of the longest fingers, while the posterior pair, similarly
TARAGUIRA TORQUATA. 321
extended forwards, reaches the orbit with the extremities of the longest
toe only. The arms and forearms are covered with scales, similar in
shape and structure to those of the dorsal region, larger above than
below, and somewhat larger also on the arms than on the forearms;
the carination becoming obsolete upon the carpi, while their poste-
rior margin is either bicuspid or emarginated. On the palm of the
hands, the scales are small and subtuberculous. The fingers are
unequal, compressed, protected by imbricated scales, slightly keeled
above, and strongly ridged beneath : a double ridge being observed
at their base, and one only towards their extremity. The nails are
compressed, acute, and curved. The scales on the upper surface of
the thighs and legs are likewise similar in shape and structure to the
dorsal ones, and somewhat larger on the legs than on the thighs ; on
the posterior aspect of the latter, they are quite small, almost granular;
beneath, they are smooth, rather rounded, entire under the thighs,
subrhombic and bicuspid under the legs, where they are also some-
what larger than under the thighs. The femoral pores are wanting.
On the tarsi, the scales are conspicuously carinated still, while on the
sole of the feet, they assume a subtubercular aspect, owing to the keel
existing at their extremity only : besides, being quite reduced in size.
The toes are unequal, compressed, surrounded with imbricated and
keeled scales, strongly unicarinated beneath. The nails having the
*ame shape as at the fingers.
The tail is elongated, quite stout, and depressed at the base, sub-
conical, slightly compressed, and tapering posteriorly. It is sur-
rounded with rather large scales, subrhombic above, sublanceolated
beneath, all strongly keeled, the keel projecting beyond their edge,
except upon the postanal region, where they are smooth and tricuspid;
at the base and depressed portion, they constitute longitudinal series,
converging upwards, whilst on the compressed portion, they are subver-
ticillated: the upper medial series being provided with a more conspicu-
ous keel, giving that region of the tail a ridged or subcrested appear-
ance.
The ground color above is either brownish-olive or greenish-brown,
spotted with black or light olive. A pale streak, more or less appa-
rent, may be observed on either side of the back ; and, on the sides of
the neck, immediately in advance of the shoulder, there exists a black,
white-lined, vertical band. The chin is variegated with irregular
dark lines or spots, upon a rather light yellowish or whitish ground.
81
322
S A U R I A.
The throat itself is generally blackish. The abdomen, the limbs, and
tail beneath, are yellowish, unicolor, except in the male sex, in which
the under surface of the thigh exhibits an elongated, black area, the
result of crowded, small spots, one of which may be seen upon each
scale.
Loc. — Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
GENUS SACCODEIRA, GIRARD.
CHAR. GEN. — Scutis cephalitis minoribm, multicarinatis. Naribus late-
ralibus, super porcam supraciliarem sitis. Squamis tempora libus
carinatis et imbricatis. Aurium margine anteriore denticulate. Collo
a lateribus perulis munito, et squamis parvulis cooperto ; per tills
infra granulatis. Plicatura scapulari vertico-obliqua. /Squamis
dorsualibus modicis, conspicue carinatis, acuminatis ; serie dorsuali
mediana, cristae humili similitudinem praebente: abdominalibus laevi-
bus et integris. Paris femoralibus et praeanalibus nidlis. Cauda
ampla, ad basim compressa, postice mimtente. Digitis palmarum
plantarumque gracilibus, inaequalibus.
GEN. CHAR. — Cephalic plates rather small, multicarinated. Nostrils
lateral, placed immediately above the supraciliary crest. Temporal
scales carinated and imbricated. Auricular aperture denticulated
in front. Sides of the neck pouched, covered with small scales
and granules within the pouches. A vertico-oblique fold in advance
of the shoulder. Dorsal scales moderate, conspicuously carinated,
acuminated ; central dorsal series simulating a low crest. Abdo-
minal scales smooth and entire. Femoral and preanal pores none.
Tail broad at the base, compressed, and tapering posteriorly. Fingers
and toes slender, unequal.
SYN. — Saccodeira, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
OBSERV. — The relationships of this genus are with Microloplms,
Holotropis, or Leioceplialus, and Proctotretus, and its congeners. It has
neither femoral nor preanal pores, and the middle dorsal series of
scales exhibits an inconspicuous crest or ridge, formed by somewhat
more- developed keels than those of the adjoining series. By its cari-
nated cephalic plates and dorsal crest it approximates Proctotretus
proper, binding the Steirolepids to the Heterotropids.
SACCODEIRA ORNATISSIMA. 323
SACCODEIKA ORNATISSIMA, Grd.
(Plate XXVIII, figs. 1-8.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Scutis cepTialicis m ///////-Wjm«, fere aeqnalibus ; supra-
labialibus, qnam super labiales gracilioribus et minoribus, in unicam
seriem dtspositis. Squamis temporalibu* parvis. Apertura auditoria
mayna. Squamis subaequalibus ; dorsualibux et lateralibus sublanceo-
latis et carinatis ; abdominal ibi is postice rotundatis. Tota femorum
facie posteriori in in nfi**ime granulosa. Supra fusco-cinerea, cum
dupla dorsuali eerie nigro-fuscarum maeidarum subtriangular um.
Cruribm maculati*. Facie capitis superiori nigrescente ; (jus late'
ribus et facie inferiori albescentibus, et parvis atri-8 maculis notatis.
iii 'me jiavescente, un icolon .
SPEC. CHAR. — Cephalic plates very small, and nearly equal-sized.
Supralabials in one series, slenderer and smaller than the upper
labials. Temporal scales quite small. Auricular aperture large.
Scales subequal; dorsal and lateral ones sublanceolated and cari-
nated ; abdominal ones posteriorly rounded. Posterior aspect of
thighs minutely and wholly granular. Greyish-brown above, with
a double series of dark brown, subtriangular spots along the dorsal
region. Limbs maculated. Upper surface of head blackish ; sides
and under surface whitish, with small jet-black spots. Abdomen
dull yellow, unicolor.
X. — SarcoJeira ornatusima, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November,
1857.
DESCR. — The head is elongated, of moderate development, depressed,
and, when seen from above, ovoid in its outline. The cephalic plates
are unequal, polygonal, subtuberculous, or moderately multicarinated.
The largest are observed on the occipital region, though the occipital
plate, properly so called, is small, acutely subtriangular, with the
summit of the triangle directed backwards. The fronto-nasal region
exhibits two pairs of plates, nearly equal in size to the ones just alluded
to. The interocular plates, of which there are two series, are slightly
smaller than the preceding. The supraocular plates are smaller yet ;
they constitute two curvilinear, and two longitudinal and parallel series,
324
S A U R I A.
the latter being composed of very small plates, situated between the
supraciliary ridge and the curvilinear series, the inner of which is
composed of the largest plates of that region. A series of four or five
flattened scales may be observed above the posterior portion of the
supraciliary ridge, which extends conspicuously as far as the nostril.
The supraciliary ridge itself is composed of five thin and elongated
plates, and two or three short ones above the posterior rim of the
orbit. Its continuation along the face takes place through the means
of two very convex plates. The nostril is situated just above this
ridge, perforating a small oblong plate, separated from the rostral by a
narrow prenasal and the first supralabials. The suborbital plate is
quite developed, narrowest upon its middle, and dilated at both extre-
mities. An anteorbital of moderate development closes the suborbi-
tal chain by coming into contact with the supraciliary ridge. There
a re "but two loral plates, the anterior being the smallest, and contiguous
to the nasal. Four narrow and elongated plates constitute a series of
supralabials, extending from the nasal to a small distance beyond the
middle of the eye. The rostral is low, convex above, and transversely
elongated. There are six upper labial plates on either side, elongated
and narrow, somewhat broader, however, than the supralabials, and in-
creasing in length from the anterior one to the fourth, then abruptly
decreasing. The symphyseal is quite conspicuous and subelliptical ;
the lower labials, five on either side, are larger also than the upper: the
second, third, and fourth are subequal, the first and fifth being some-
what smaller. Three pairs of rather large mental shields may be seen
diverging from the symphyseal ; the remaining pairs are scarcely dis-
tinguishable from the scales at the angle of the mouth, one series of
which extending forwards, between the lower labials and the mental
shields, a little beyond the posterior edge of the first labial and first
mental shield, though not reaching the symphyseal. The scales under
the head are smooth, subequal, subrhombic, increasing in size towards
the chest, where they are largest. The temporal region is protected
by small, scale-like, keeled plates. The auricular aperture is propor-
tionally large, provided, upon its infero-anterior edge, with two pro-
jecting scales. The tympanum is somewhat sunk, though still visible.
The neck is but slightly contracted, and exhibits sideways a sub-
horizontal and conspicuous fold, under which is a small pouch ;
another, much smaller fold, may be observed immediately in advance
of the shoulder. The scales are small, elongated, or sublanceolated,
SACCODEIRA ORNATISSIMA. 325
and keeled, assuming a granular aspect just behind the auricular
aperture, and upon a very small area too.
The body is rounded, somewhat depressed ; the back slightly con-
vex, and the belly flat. It is covered above with subequal, rhombic,
conspicuously keeled scales, disposed upon longitudinal series, some-
what oblique upwards along the sides, where they are likewise smaller.
The abdominal scales are subequal, somewhat smaller also than on
the dorsal region, subrhomboid or sublozengiform, smooth, some of
them emarginated or bicuspid posteriorly ; diminishing in size as they
approximate the sides, showing, at the same time, a slight keel ;
about the axillae and groins, they are either very small or else
granular.
The limbs are slender, and of moderate development : the anterior
pair, when bent backwards alongside the body, does not extend to the
groins; and, when the posterior pair is brought forwards in a similar
manner, the tip of the longest toe reaches the auricular aperture; their
upper surface is covered with rhombic scales, carinated as far as the
tip of the toes, as usual, largest upon the arras and legs than on the
forearms and thighs, and smallest on the carpi and tarsi, and lower
surface of the fore pair ; under the thighs and legs, they resemble the
abdominal ones in shape and structure. The fingers and toes are
unequal, compressed, and bicarinated beneath. The nails are slender,
compressed, curved, and acute.
The tail is once and a half as long as the head and body combined ;
it is slender and tapering, thick, and depressed at the base; then slightly
compressed and conical posteriorly. The scales of its upper surface are
equal to those of the back, keeled, and disposed upon longitudinal series;
beneath, they are elongated, sublanceolated, equally keeled, and dis-
posed upon longitudinal series. On the posterior third, the scales are
verticillated, and those of the upper surface are likewise elongated and
lanceolated.
The ground color is greyish-brown above, and, during life, rather of
an olivaceous hue, along the upper portion of the flanks. A double
series of blackish-brown, light-margined, subtriangular spots may be
observed along the back, with their bases parallel to the dorsal line :
the spots of either series alternating on the anterior portion of the
body, whilst they are opposite each other posteriorly, where they
assume the aspect of a continuous transverse band, broadest in the
middle, and tapering towards each side. These spots or bands may be
82
326
S A U R I A.
traced along the upper surface of the tail to its tip. The limbs are
transversely barred with blackish-brown : the bands being likewise
margined with yellowish-olive, though, on the anterior pair, the latter
hue invades all the intervening spaces between the dark bands, leaving
no room for the ground color to appear. The sides of the body are
black-speckled, as also the hands and feet. The upper surface of the
head is almost of a uniform blackish-brown : the supraciliary ridge
and the rostral plate being light straw-color, of which a few specks
may occasionally be seen on the cephalic and occipital regions. The
sides of the head and neck are variegated with jet-black and yellowish-
white. The chin, throat, and a portion of the chest are whitish, over
which are interspersed small jet-black spots, of various shapes. The
abdomen and under surface of the tail are dull yellow, unicolor.
In the female sex, the ground is paler, and a jet-black longitudinal
band may be observed from the temporal region, across the ear, to the
axilla : the abdomen being clouded with greyish meanders.
Loc. — The male specimen figured, and which was sketched from
life, was obtained in the Lower Cordilleras, just below Obrajillo. A
female specimen, of about the same size, was caught in the neighbor-
hood of Yanga, Republic of Peru.
Plate XXVIIT, fig. 1, represents Saccodeira ornatissima, size of life.
Fig. 2, is an upper view of the head ;
Fig. 3, its profile ; and,
Fig. 4, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 5, the left hand, from above ;
Fig. 6, the same, from beneath.
Fig. 7, exhibits a group of dorsal scales ;
Fig. 8, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 2-8, are somewhat magnified views.
GENUS PROCTOTRETUS, DUM. & BIBR.
GEN. CHAR. — Maxillary teeth simple and subconical. Palate toothed.
An external auricular aperture. Dorsal scales keeled. Neck and
back, properly speaking, not crested. Abdominal scales generally
smooth. Sides of the neck variously folded, with a few exceptions.
PROCTOTRETUS. 327
No gular fold. No femoral pores ; preanal pores in the male sex.
Tail tapering, simple. Fingers and toes five, simple.
SYN.— Proctotretus, BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 266.— BELL, Zool. Voy.
Beagle, V, 1843, 1.— FITZ. Sjst.Kept. 1843, 74.— GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mas. 1845,
216.— GUICH. in Gay, Hist, de Chile, Zool. II, 1848, 23.— GRD. in Gllliss U. S. N.
Astr. Exped. S. Hemisph. II, 1855, 217.
OBSERV. — This group is characterized by the presence of preanal
pores in the male sex, and in the total absence of femoral pores. The
body is rounded off, somewhat depressed, covered with imbricated
scales, varying considerably in size and shape : the dorsal ones, and
often the lateral also, are carinated : the keels being more or less deve-
loped, either projecting beyond the posterior edge of the scale, which
is then acuminated or lanceolated, else not extending quite to the
margin of the same, which, in that case, is rounded or subrhomboid.
The lateral scales being either equal to the dorsal ones, subequal, or
smaller. The abdominal scales are larger than the lateral ones, gene-
rally smooth, rounded, and entire posteriorly, sometimes acuminated,
subciliated, or emarginated. The dorsal region is generally even or
without crest : in a few instances, pectinated ridges may be observed.
The head, which is more or less depressed, is subquadrangulo-pyra-
midal, narrow, rounded, or subtruncated anteriorly. The cephalic
plates are of small, or of moderate size, polygonal or lanceolated, either
imbricated and carinated, else unimbricated and smooth. There are
teeth, more or less conspicuous, on the palatine or pterygoid bones.
The temporal scales are smooth or carinated, imbricated or not. The
auricular aperture is either denticulated, tubercular, or granular in
front, else simple : the tympanum being situated somewhat below the
surface of its orifice. The sides of the neck are either even, without
fold of any kind, or an indistinct longitudinal one is observed ; some-
times, a vertico-oblique, scapular fold is observed with an indistinct
longitudinal one ; at others, it is multifolded or rumpled. Scales simi-
lar in shape and structure to those of the back or sides, may extend
over its surface or folds, or the latter may be entirely granular. There
is no gular fold or collar.
The body is supported by four limbs, terminated by five fingers and
five toes, simple and clawed; their upper surface is covered with scales
similar in shape and structure to those protecting the body. The in-
ferior aspect of the arms and posterior aspect of the thighs, are either
328
S A U R I A.
covered with minute scales or granules : te thighs being either wholly
granular or else exhibiting a patch of small scales near the base of the
tail.
The tail itself is either long or moderate, depressed at the base, coni-
cal posteriorly, and tapering into a point, protected by carinated and
subverticillated scales, of various forms, though even aspect.
The species which come under the above heading having become
quite numerous, writers have felt the necessity of subdividing the
genus into minor groups or subgenera, according to secondary traits
of organization, or rather zoological structure.
Being cast, as it were, in the same mould, their structural characters
are multifold, and considerably interwoven, as is generally the case, at
large. The association of these characters will not allow an absolute
line of demarcation to be drawn between all the minor groups. Some-
times one series of characters and sometimes another series is to guide
the zoologist in the divisions he is about to establish.
In the following systematic arrangement, we have endeavored to
remain faithful to the natural method, and, we hope, not without
success. Certain species on the confine of their division may some-
times appear as though entitled to enter one group as readily as
another, but we are satisfied that when the species shall have been
better investigated in that respect, the characters which we assign to
each division will only gain in strength and permanency. New species
may be added, requiring the establishment of new divisions, without
invalidating those which are now proposed.
Whether the subgenus Sauridis, of Tschudi,* is really distinct from
those hereinafter treated of, we are not prepared to tell. The absence
of palatine teeth would, in itself, be a valuable character, should it be
proved that they exist under all circumstances elsewhere in the same
group. The rest of its diagnosis alludes to nothing peculiarly distinct
from characters assigned to other genera. By the folds of its neck, it
reminds us of either Ptyclwdeira or Rhytidodeira, and by its cephalic
plates, mayhap, somewhat Eulaemus. As to S. tnodestus, the only
species so far referred to it, being described simply in its coloration, it
would be idle to attempt tracing out its affinities with the numerous
species of the group we are now to pass in review. Tschudi seems to
hold it closely related to Tropidurus oxyceplicdus, of Wiegmann : hence,
the affinities of Sauridis would be with Rhytidodeira.
* Faun. Peruan. Herp. 1845, 34.
PROCTOTRETUS SPLEXDIDUS. 329
SUBGENUS PROCTOTRETUS (Dusi. & BIBR.), GRD.
GEN. CHAR. — Cephalic plates small, subequal, imbricated, and cari-
nated ; one or two series of supralabials. Nostrils lateral, in a line
with the supraciliary crest. Temporal scales moderate, carinated,
not acuminated. Auricular aperture small or moderate, denticu-
lated in front. Sides of neck with a slight longitudinal fold, and
a vertico-oblique one in advance of the shoulder, covered with
scales similar to those of the back. Dorsal and lateral scales large,
subequal, subrhomboid, or sublanceolated, conspicuously carinated,
and acuminated. Abdominal scales sublanceolated, and bifid pos-
teriorly. Posterior aspect of thighs minutely scaly. Colors : lon-
gitudinally light-streaked, with intervening series of dark spots.
OBSERV. — The small, imbricated, and keeled cephalic plates, will
easily distinguish this group from its natural allies. Even the abdo-
minal scales seem to be more deeply emarginated than in the follow-
ing subgeneric groups.
According to Fitzinger, Liolaemus marmoratus, of Gravenhorst
(Nov. Act. Acad. nat. cur. XVIII, ii, 1838, 728, PL LIV, fig. 11), would
belong to this genus.
1. PROCTOTRETUS SPLENDIDUS, Grd.
(Plate XVII, figs. 1-7.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Scutis labialibus exiguis, elongatis, et paulo majoribiw
quam supralabiales, qui in seriem duplicem disponuntur. Squamis
temporalibus imbricatis. Apertura auditoria parva. TJnica serie
scutorum infralabiaHum, exiguiorum quam labiates inferiores. Scu-
torum mentaUum tribus paribus. Cristis pectinatis tribus, una se-
cundum dorsalem regionem medianam et ana in utroque tergi latere.
Supra smaragdino-viridi, cum quinque seriebus macularum subova-
tarum, fusco-castanearum, et nigro marginatarum. Cristis pectinatis
lateralibus aureis. Facie capitis superiori transverse aureo Uneata.
Lateribus corporis et cruribus fulvoflavis, fusco variegatis. Infra
albescente.
83
330
S A U R I A.
SPEC. CHAR. — Labial plates narrow and long, somewhat larger than
the supralabials, which are disposed upon two series. Temporal
scales imbricated. Auricular aperture small. One series of infra-
labials, narrower than the lower labials. Three pairs of mental
shields. Three pectinated crests, one along the dorsal line, and
one on each side of the back. Emerald-green above, with five series
of subovate, chestnut-brown, black-margined spots. The lateral
pectinated crest of a bright yellow. Head transversely streaked
with bright yellow, also. Sides and limbs variegated with brown,
upon a fawn-yellow ground. Beneath whitish.
SYN. — Proctotretus pectinatus, BELL, Zool. of Beagle, V, Kept. 1843, 18. PI. ix,
fig. 2.
Ptygoderus pectinatus, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 216.
Proctotretus splendidus, GRD. in Proc. Aead. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857.
DESCR. — The general appearance of this species is rather short and
thickish. The body is depressed, wider than deep. The head, which
is separated from the body by a somewhat contracted neck, is depressed
also, though convex upon its upper surface, and very much declivous from
the orbital region forwards, giving to the snout a wedge-shaped appear-
ance : the jaws being even. The cleft of the mouth, in advance of the
orbit, is subconcave, and its angle nearly horizontal. The auricular
aperture is small, subcircular, or vertically subovoid, overlapped ante-
riorly and superiorly by a conspicuous, subconical scale. The limbs
are moderate in their development : the anterior being more slender
than the posterior, and, when brought backwards in a line with the
body, the tips of the fingers are far from reaching the groins. On the
other hand, in bringing forwards the posterior limbs, the tip of the
longest toe is made to reach the axilla. The tail is very thick, and
depressed upon its base, but very soon diminishes posteriorly, where
it tapers into a conical point, being altogether longer than the body
and head combined.
The upper surface of the head is covered with small, subrhomboid,
imbricated, and carinated plates : the largest may be observed upon
the occipital region, then, along the line of the vertex, towards the
frontal region ; they being smallest above the eyes. The supraciliary
ridge is conspicuous, composed of six or seven elongated and thin plates,
except the anterior one, which is stout and short. The nostrils are
situated upon the prolongation of that ridge, mayhap, slightly inwardly,
PROCTOTRETUS SPLENDIDUS. 331
but still, apparently belonging to the sides of the head ; their opening
is very conspicuous, perforating the posterior edge of a single, subellip-
tic plate, separated from the rostral by two much smaller plates. The
rostral itself is low, and broad upon its base, having the shape of a
very much depressed cone. The upper labials are four in number,
elongated, and narrow. There are two rows of supralabials : the lower
one composed of three plates only, elongated, and narrower than the
labials themselves ; the upper row is composed of six elongated, quite
conspicuous plates. The loral region is occupied by a half dozen of
small, subquadrangular plates. There are three suborbitals : the
middle one very large and elongated. The temporal region is covered
with rhomboid and carinated scales, similar to those which may be
seen on the occiput. The surface of the eyelid is granular, whilst its
edge is provided with a double row of small, quadrangular plates. We
observe six elongated, nearly equal, lower labials, not quite so narrow
as the upper ones. The symphyseal is well developed, laterally con-
cave at the commissure of the first labial, and rounded posteriorly.
Three pairs of mental shields may be seen, diverging from it. The
remaining portion of the throat is covered with quite large, sublanceo-
lated, and smooth scales, notched upon their posterior margin.
The scales on the upper surface of the body are large, subrhomboid,
conspicuously carinated, and posteriorly acuminated. A series on
either side may be observed extending from the posterior suborbital,
along the sides of the neck to the depressed portion of the tail, quite
raised above the other, constituting a lateral crest : these inclose a
dorsal area of nine series of scales. The middle dorsal series exhibits
a more prominent keel than the two adjoining series ; the keels on
the third series again are more conspicuous than on the fourth series :
thus, we have, as it were, a tendency to five longitudinal crests, more
or less prominent. The sides of the neck are covered with well-deve-
loped and carinated scales. A vertical fold of the skin may be observed
a little way in advance of the shoulder, directed somewhat obliquely
backwards. Between the auricular aperture and the fold just men-
tioned, may be seen a series of somewhat raised scales, simulating a
horizontal fold. About the axillae, the scales are very small, but cari-
nated still. On the upper part of the flank, they are like those of the
back, similarly carinated, obliquely disposed, and more acute at their
posterior extremity. About the groins, they are larger than about the
axillae, and likewise keeled. On the broad and depressed portion of
332
S A U R I A.
the tail, the scales resemble those of the back, whilst they are shorter
on the conical and tapering portion, and keeled to the very tip, towards
which they become quite slender. The abdominal scales are well deve-
loped and smooth, sublanceolated, notched or bifid posteriorly ; they are
smaller and irregular upon the preanal region, but the preanal margin
is provided with a row of conspicuously larger ones; their size is quite
reduced upon the postanal region, but soon increase in size along the
inferior surface of the tail, exhibiting a bifid or notched posterior
extremity, as on the abdomen. The upper surface of the fore limbs
is covered with scales, smaller than those of the back, though keeled,
and more acute posteriorly ; they become quite- small, but still carinated,
upon the posterior and inferior aspects of the forearm and palm of the
hands ; they are larger and rather smooth upon the anterior aspect of
the arm and carpus, and carinated upon the posterior aspect of the
same organs. The fingers are surrounded with four series of carinated
scales, one above, two sideways, and one beneath ; the inner or first
finger is the smallest ; the fifth or outer one is the next in length ;
then, the second, fourth, and third, which is the longest. The naila
are well developed, compressed upon their base, conical, curved, and
acute at the apex. The upper surface of the hind limbs is likewise
covered with carinated scales, smaller than those of the back ; they
are smaller on the tarsus than on the leg proper, and smaller on the
leg than on the thigh. On the inferior surface of the thigh and leg,
the scales are well developed, sublanceolated, and smooth, whilst they
are small and carinated on the soles of the feet ; they are very small,
subgranular on the posterior aspect of the thighs. The squamation of
the toes is similar to that of the fingers, there being an upper series,
a lateral, and an inferior series : the latter provided with a double
keel. The first or inner toe is the longest ; the second the next in
length ; then, the fifth or outermost follows the third and fourth, which
is the longest of all.
The ground color is of a dusky yellow : the lateral series of raised
scales being bright yellow. The dorsal space inclosed by these streaks
is marked with three series of chestnut-brown, black-margined spots.
The spots of the middle series are larger than those of the adjoining
series; they all are elongated and subovoid. The upper surface of the
head exhibits several transverse spots or bai's of bright yellow. Two
other series of spots may likewise be observed along the flanks, imme-
diately beneath the yellow streak ; they are smaller than on the back,
PROCTOTRETUS PECTIXATUS. 333
and occasionally blended together. The space between these brown
spots is of an emerald-green in adult individuals : a tint which is
liable to turn into blue by immersion in alcohol. The upper surface
of the limbs is irregularly spotted with brown. The sides of the neck
is mottled with rusty yellow and blackish-brown. Beneath, the color
is of a uniform white or dull yellow.
LOG. — Specimens of this species were collected on the banks of the
Rio Negro, in Patagonia, being quite abundant among the sandhills.
A colored sketch of one of them was made, at the time, by Mr.
Drayton.
Plate XIX, fig. 1, represents Proctotretus splendidus, in profile, and
size of life.
Fig. 2. exhibits the inferior surface of the same animal.
Fig. 3, the upper surface of the head ;
Fig. 4, a front view of the same.
Fig. 5, the left hand, from above.
Fig. 6, a group of dorsal scales ;
Fig. 7, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 3-7, are somewhat magnified.
2. PROCTOTRETUS PECTINATUS, Dum. & Bibr.
SPEC. CHAR. — Labial plates exceedingly narrow and elongated ; one
series of supralabials. Auricular aperture moderate, with two or
three erect scales in front. A pectinated crest on each side of the
body, formed by somewhat narrower and more erect scales. Grey-
ish-fawn above, with three series of large, ovate, blackish, white-
margined spots. The pectinated crest is white. Three yellowish
or whitish streaks across the head. Beneath white.
Sr.v. — Proclolretus pectinatus, DuM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 292. — GUICH.
in Gay, Hist, de Chile, Zool. II, 1848, 44.
Liolaemus (Proctotretus) pectinatus, FITZ. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 74.
OBSERV. — This species, though closely allied to the preceding one,
•will appear sufficiently distinct from it, since there is but one pecti-
84
334 S A U R I A.
nated crest on each side, and three series of black spots along the
upper region of the body. The presence of but one series of supra-
labials is another trait none the less characteristic.
Loc. — Chile.
SUBQENUS LIOLAEMUS, WIEOM.
GEN. CHAR. — Cephalic plates well developed, smooth ; one series of
supralabials. Nostrils in a line with the supraciliary crest. Tem-
poral scales moderate, carinated, not acuminated. Auricular aper-
ture large, denticulated in front. Sides of neck not folded with
scales like those of the back ; no vertico-oblique fold nor scapular
pouch. Dorsal and lateral scales large, subrhomboid, conspicuously
carinated, and acuminated ; abdominal scales large, smooth, poste-
riorly rounded and entire. Posterior aspect of thighs granular.
Colors : transverse dark fasciae, upon a lighter ground, or else uni-
color.
.— Liolaemus, WIEGM. in Nov. Act. nat. cur. XVII, i, 1835, 221 & 227. —
GRAVENH. in Nov. Act. nat. cur. XVIII, ir, 1838, 717.— FITZ. Syst. Kept. 1843, 74 —
GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 213.— TSCH. Faun. Peruan. Herp. 1845, 33.
OBSERV. — -We are not prepared to tell whether Liolaemus bellii,
GRAY (Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 212), L. unicolor, GRAVENH. (Nov.
Act. nat. cur. XVIII, ii, 1838, 728), both from Chile, belong to this
section or to Liodeira; they not being sufficiently described to permit
classification in regard to the genera or subgenera, as here circum-
scribed. Liolaemus elegans, TSCH. (Faun. Peruan. Herp. 1845, 33),
from the coast of Peru, falls into the same category.
LIOLAEMUS NITIDUS, Gravenh.
(Plate XXVIII, figs. 17-24.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Scales subequal. Nasal plate contiguous to the rostral.
Supralabials moderate, somewhat narrower than the labials. Four
pairs of mental shields. Tail stoutish, longer than the body and
LIOLAEMUS NITIDUS. 335
head together, depressed at the base, subconical, and tapering poste-
riorly. Olive-brown above, with narrow, transverse, black bands ;
head varied with black. Beneath yellowish ; chin and throat irre-
gularly lineated with black ; belly and tail unicolor.
SYN. — Tropidurus nitidus, WIEOM. in Nov. Act. nat. cur. XVII, I, 1835, 234.
Tab. xvn, fig. 2 (young).
Liolaemus nitidus, GRAVENH. in Nov. Act. nat. cur. XVIII, II, 1838, 727. PI. LIV,
figs. 8-10.
Liolaemus lineatus, GRAVENH. in Nov. Act. nat. cur. XVIII, II, 1838, 723. PI.
LIV, figs. 1-7.—? GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 213.
DESCR. — The head is quite depressed, gradually declivous from the
occiput to the snout, otherwise, subpyramidal, rather obtuse anteriorly.
The neck is almost continuous with the posterior part of the head, being
but slightly contracted upon the gular region ; and, as to the body, it
is subcyliudrical, rounded above, flattened beneath, diminishing some-
what posteriorly, being rather depressed upon the pelvic region, hence
passing gradually to the subconical and tapering tail, which is much
longer than the other regions of the animal taken together. The
limbs are moderate in length : the anterior ones are slender, not
extending to the groins, when stretched in that direction ; the poste-
rior ones are stouter, and, when extended forwards, the tip of the
longest toe may approximate the auricular aperture.
The cephalic plates are well developed, and arranged with great
regularity and symmetrical beauty upon the specimen now before us.
We first observe an anterior pair of transversely elongated and exigu-
ous internasals, contiguous upon the middle line of the snout, and
laterally each to the nasal plate ; then, a posterior pair, subpenta-
gonal, longitudinally, and somewhat obliquely situated upon the
middle of the internasal region, contiguous anteriorly to the pair just
alluded to. Five fronto-nasals come next, placed upon a crescent-
shaped figure : a middle one, hexagonal and elongated, is situated
immediately behind the commissure of the posterior pair of inter-
nasals, and between which its anterior angle somewhat engages, whilst
its posterior angle is slightly engaged between the commissure of the
prefrontals ; the adjoining two, subpentagonal in shape, are placed
one on each side of the middle one, with their longest diameter
directed obliquely outwards ; the remaining two are elongated, exigu-
ous, posteriorly acute, situated between the outer angle of the prefron-
SAURIA.
tals and the supraciliary ridge. A pair of elliptically polygonal pre-
frontal plates, the largest amongst the cephalic ones, may be seen
immediately behind the fronto-nasals, inclosing, upon the posterior-
half of their commissure, a small and odd cordiform plate. A post-
frontal pair fills up the area between the prefrontals, the supraoculars,
and the vertex plate. The latter is elongated, subhexagonal, and
rather broader anteriorly than posteriorly. Four pairs of subequal
and quadrangular parietals form, on each side of the occipitals, a
curved series, concave towards the supraocular region : the plates of
the anterior pair are contiguous upon their inner edge; the others
are inclosed, on one side by the occipitals, and on the other, by the
supraoculars. The middle occipital is rather small, subpentagonal,
posteriorly acuminated, and engaging between the rather more deve-
loped contiguous postoccipitals. Two exiguous pairs of latero-occipi-
tals, situated side by side, exteriorly to the postorbitals, close that long
series of cephalic plates.
We have yet to allude to the supraoculars : three, somewhat more
developed than the rest, though unequal, occupy the posterior and
middle space of that region ; while a semicircular series, of rather
small and irregular ones, separates them from the parietals, the vertex,
and the frontal plates, and a longitudinal series of similarly irregular
and small plates isolates them from the supraciliary series. The ante-
rior remaining portion of the supraocular region, inclosed by the two
series just alluded to, is covered with small, irregular plates. The
supraciliary series is composed of five or six, unequal, thin, tiled
laminae, occupying the region immediately above the orbits. Its con-
tinuation forwards along the line of the canthus rostralis, exhibits but
two more plates, the foremost of which being the smallest. In advance
of that ridge is situated the nasal plate, perforated by the nostril, con-
tiguous anteriorly to the rostral, inferiorly to the anterior supralabial,
superiorly to an exiguous supranasal, and posteriorly to three unequal
postnasals : the middle one being very small ; the uppermost exiguous
and curved ; the lowermost subtriangular and moderate. A second
and small upper postnasal may be observed, between the lateral naso-
frontals, the uppermost postnasal, the naso-frontal, and the anterior of
the supraciliary ridge. The loral region is occupied by three plates :
a small one may be seen under the anterior extremity of the supra-
ciliary ridge, and immediately behind the inferior postnasal; the other
two are larger, angular, subequal, placed one in advance of the other,
LIOLAEMUS NITIDUS. 337
under the sub- and anteorbitals. The inferior rim of the orbit is almost
exclusively formed by an elongated, curved, and ridged plate, with a
small one anteriorly, the anteorbital, and a thin diminutive one pos-
teriorly, the postorbital. The rest of the posterior rim is formed by
very small plates, passing gradually to the moderate, keeled, poste-
riorly obtuse scales which cover the temporal region.
The rostral plate is quite narrow, and transversely elongated. It is
followed, on either side, by five upper, narrow, and elongated labials,
increasing in size to the fourth, which is the largest : the fifth being
the smallest, subtriangular, and somewhat overlapped by the fourth.
There is but one series of supralabials, composed of six narrow and
elongated plates, somewhat smaller than the labials, increasing in size
to the fifth, which is the largest : the sixth being nearly equal to the
first, though shorter and broader. The symphyseal is hemidiscoid,
and larger than the rostral. The lower labials, five on either side,
are elongated and narrow, largest anteriorly (larger also than the
upper labials), and gradually diminishing to the fifth, which is exigu-
ous. Four pairs of mental shields may be observed : the shields of
the anterior pair, contiguous upon their inner edge, and adjoining
the symphyseal and first lower labial, whilst the remaining pairs are
diverging posteriorly. An irregular double series of elongated infra-
labial scales exists between the mental shields and the lower labials.
The scales on the chin and throat are well developed, posteriorly
rounded, subequal, and nearly as large as the abdominal ones.
The auricular aperture is large, vertically subovate, provided ante-
riorly with projecting scales, giving to that edge a denticulated appear-
ance. The scales on the sides of the neck are well developed, sub-
acuminated and keeled, and nearly equal to those of the upper surface
of the same region. The scales adjoining the occipital plates are
somewhat smaller than the following ones. Those of the upper region
of the body are subequal, conspicuously keeled, and acuminated, con-
stituting longitudinal series : the lateral ones converging upwards
towards the pelvic region and base of the tail, where they are still
more acute posteriorly. Upon the inferior region, they are smooth,
subequal, rounded posteriorly, being likewise smooth and subequal
under the hind limbs, keeled and subacuminated above, and nearly
as large as on the back. The posterior aspect of the thigh is wholly
granular, somewhat more coarsely inferiorly. The axilla is minutely
granular, whilst small and obtuse scales exist under the arm, some-
85
338
S A U B I A.
what larger, and slightly keeled under the forearm. The scales on
the upper surface of the fore limbs being conspicuously keeled, some-
what acuminated, though smaller than on the back. The palms of the
hands and soles of the feet are densely covered with small, acute, and
keeled -scales, giving these surfaces quite a rough appearance. The
fingers and toes are scaly above and sideways, and transversely plated
beneath, the fingers being nearly smooth above, whilst the toes are cari-
nated: the inferior aspect of both fingers and toes being multicarinated.
The nails are compressed, curved, and acute. The scales on the infe-
rior surface of the tail are somewhat smaller than on its upper surface,
more lanceolated, and less conspicuously keeled.
The color of the adult is olivaceous-brown above, with narrow,
transverse, blackish bands across the back, covering but one scale,
margined with a lighter hue. The head is variegated with black; the
limbs and tail are unicolor. Beneath, the tint is yellowish ; the chin
and throat exhibiting interrupted, longitudinal, black lines.
The young, as colored from life in May, 1839, exhibits a greyish-
brown hue along the dorsal region, with four longitudinal series of
small, subtriangular, brownish-black spots, with their bases directed
forwards, and contiguous sideways, so as to constitute, as it were,
transverse bands or fasciae ; three series of white, intervening spots
are also observed behind and contiguous to the dark ones. A lateral
series of brownish, much less distinct spots, extends along the upper
portion of the flanks, which otherwise exhibit a light greyish hue,
variegated with brown and pink. The base of the tail is transversely
barred with blackish-brown, whilst it is unicolor posteriorly. The
upper surface of the limbs is greyish, transversely barred or macu-
lated with darker blotches. The upper surface of the head is reddish-
brown ; its lower surface is whitish, with meandriform lines of black.
The belly is yellowish-white, obscurely maculated : the spots fading
away over the chest ; the belly, limbs, and tail being unicolor. The
posterior aspect of the thighs is variegated with black and whitish
spots.
Loc. — Very common in the environs of Valparaiso, Chile.
Plate XXVIII, fig. 17, represents Liolaemus nitidus, size of life ;
It is the type of Gravenhorst's L. lineatus.
LIODEIRA. 339
Fig. 18, is an upper view of the head ;
Fig. 19, a profile ; and,
Fig. 20, a view from beneath of the same region.
Fig. 21, the left hand, from above ;
Fig. 22, the same, from beneath.
Fig. 23, exhibits a group of dorsal scales ;
Fig. 24, a group of abdominal scales.
Fig. 25, represents the young of the same species, originally de-
scribed by Wiegmann as Tropidurus nitidus.
SUBGENUS LIODEIRA (DcM. & BIBR.), FITZ.
GEN*. CHAR. — Cephalic plates moderate, not imbricated, smooth ; one
series of supralabials. Nostrils lateral. Temporal scales carinated,
imbricated. Auricular aperture denticulated in front. Sides of
neck not folded ; a vertico-oblique fold in advance of the shoulder ;
covered with scales similar to those of the back. Dorsal and lateral
scales large, rhomboid, conspicuously carinated, and acuminated.
Abdominal scales posteriorly rounded, entire, or bifid. Posterior
aspect of thighs minutely scaly or granular. Colors : longitudinal
or transverse series of dark spots, upon a lighter ground.
SYN.— Lefocilreg, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. g£n. IV, 1837, 269.— BUM. & A. DOM.
Catal. Kept. Mus. d'hist. nat. i, 1851, 71.
Liodelra, FITZ. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 17 & 74.
Leiodtra, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mas. 1845, 210.
OBSERV. — Differs from Liolaemus, which it most resembles, by a
vertico-oblique fold in advance of the shoulder, simulating a diminu-
tive pouch.
In the absence of specimens and accurate information regarding
Leiodera gravenhorsti, GRAY (Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 211), we are
unable to furnish a diagnosis of the specific characters of that species,
which is a native of Chile, and considered by Thos. Bell as a mere
variety of L. cMlensis.
Liolaemus inconspicuus, GRAY (Brit. Mus. 1836; &, Catal. Lizz. Brit.
Mus. 1845, 213), appears to us more closely related to the species of
Liodeira than those of Liolaemus, though the scanty information we
possess will not allow us deciding that question.
340
S A U R I A.
LIODEIRA CHILENSIS (Dum. & Bibr.), Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head rather short ; snout obtuse and rounded. Supra-
labial plates very narrow and elongated. Two series of infralabials.
Three pairs of mental shields. Temporal scales moderate, equal,
keeled. Scales on the sides of the neck thin and rhomboid ; lateral
and abdominal scales smaller than the dorsal ones, and posteriorly
entire ; on the flanks keeled and acuminated ; on the belly smooth.
Posterior aspect of thighs uniformly and minutely scaly or sub-
granular. Color of a uniform bronze hue, or transversely undulated
with brown, or variegated with yellow ; else, fawn-yellow, with two
longitudinal brownish bands : a similar streak over the temples, and
a forked one upon the nape.
SYN.— Calotes chilensis, LESS. Voy. Coq. Zool. II, i, 1830, 36. PI. I, fig. 2.
Tropidurus chilensis, WiEOM. in Nov. Act. nat. cur. XVII, I, 1835, 233 & 268.
Tropidurus olivaceits, WIEGM. in Nov. Act. nat. cur. XVII, I, 1835, 268.
ProcColretus chilensis, DDM. & BIBR. Erpet. g6n. IV, 1837, 269. — BELL, Zool. Voy.
Beagle, V, 1843, 2. PI. i, fig. 1.— GUICH. in Gay, Hist,, de Chile, Zool. II, 1848,
24. PI. n, fig. 1.— DUM. Voy. Venus, Zool. 1855, 288. PI. i, figs. 1 & 2.
Liolacmus chilensis, FITZ. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 75.
Leiodera chilensis, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 210.
Liolaemus olivaceus (WiEGM.), TSCH. Faun. Peruan. Herp. 1845, 33.
OBSERV. — This species, though common in Chile, was not brought
home by the Expedition. It has been admirably well figured in the
French Voyages quoted in the synonymy, especially in the " Voyage
de la Venus."
SUBGENUS PTYCHODEIRA (Dust. & BIBR.), FITZ.
GEN. CHAR. — Head subovate, anteriorly narrow. Cephalic plates
moderate, not carinated ; one series of supralabials. Nostrils late-
ral. Temporal scales imbricated and carinated. Auricular aper-
ture simple, subgranular, or denticulated. Sides of neck longitu-
dinally folded, covered with small, sublanceolated, carinated, and
imbricated scales ; no vertico-oblique scapular fold. Scales sub-
PTYCHODEIRA GRACILIS. 341
equal ; dorsal and lateral ones large, subrhomboid, conspicuously
carinated, and acuminated. Abdominal scales posteriorly entire.
Posterior aspect of thighs wholly granular. Coloration : one or two
longitudinal light streaks on each side, with or without intervening
series of black spots.
S?x.—Pti/<jot7cres, DOM. & BifcR. Erpet, gen. IV, 1837, 273.— DOM. & A. DOM.
Catal. meth. Kept. Mus. d'hist. nat. i, 1851, 72.
Ptychotleira, Fixz. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 17 & 73.
Pyyoderus, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 216.
OBSERV. — In this subgeneric division the neck exhibits longitudinal
folds, more or less distinct, but has no scapular fold, thus standing
in close relations to Liodeira and Liolaemus, especially if we bear in
mind that the sides of the neck are covered with scales similar to
those of the body, though smaller. The imbricated and keeled tem-
poral scales constitute another relative feature in this genus.
The species which it includes are more numerous, though further
researches may reduce their actual number, and show some of them
to be mere varieties of either one or the other.
1. PTYCHODEIRA GRACILIS, Grd.
(Plate XVII, figs. 22-28.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Cephalic plates smooth. Auricular aperture large,
minutely denticulated. Supralabials nearly equal to the labials.
Temporal scales moderate. Sides of neck but slightly wrinkled.
Dorsal and lateral scales subequal. Abdominal scales smooth, sub-
lanceolated. Tail very long and slender. Olivaceous-brown, with
two longitudinal streaks on each side : uppermost superiorly lined
with black. Sides speckled with black. Beneath pale, unicolor,
except the chin and throat, which exhibit sometimes interrupted
black lines.
STN.— Proctotretus ffracilis, BELL, Zool. Voy. Beagle, V, 1843, 4. PI. I, fig. 2.
Leiodera gracilis, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mas. 1845, 211.
OBSERV. — The resemblance of this species, in its general aspect, to
P. stantoni is very striking, and still more so, when we consider its
coloration, which is most similar.
86
342
S A U R I A.
DESCR. — The head is very much depressed, declivous from the occi-
put to the snout, hence, wedge-shaped in its general appearance ; seen
from above, its outline is subovoid. The cephalic plates, polygonal as
usual, smooth or subnodulous, are proportionally well developed. The
frontals are the most conspicuous; they are symmetrically arranged in
three pairs, the middle pair of which is the largest, inclosing two cen-
tral odd plates upon the vertex. The vertex plate proper, however,
does not come into contact with the latter, since the posterior frontals
are contiguous upon their inner margin. Three occipitals constitute
another conspicuous group, though more angular each than the fron-
tals ; the occipital pit is not conspicuous, but may be detected, as usual,
upon the middle of the central plate. The group just alluded to is
surrounded by a chain of smaller plates. Two or tln'ee supraoculars
are considerably larger than the rest, the smallest of which constitute
a subconcentric series, along the occipital, vertico-frontal, and supra-
ciliary lines. Others, equally small, occupy the anterior external
third of the supraocular region, either irregularly disposed, or arranged
upon three oblique series. There are two pairs of fronto-nasals : the
anterior pair being the smallest, subquadrangular, and in contact with
the rostral ; the posterior pair is subquadrangular also. We likewise
observe two minute interfronto-nasals. The nasal, situated upon the
prolongation of the supraciliary ridge, is pyriform; its narrowest extre-
mity coming into contact with the rostral. The nostril is large and
circular, situated near to its posterior margin. The rostral is trans-
versely elongated, very low, and slightly convex upon its upper edge.
We observe five elongated upper labials, largest upon the middle of
the series. There is but one row of elongated and very exiguous
supralabials, about five in number. Three angular and small plates
occupy the loral region. There are but two suborbitals, a posterior,
very small, scale-like, and a very elongated one, forming almost exclu-
sively the inferior rim of the orbit. The surface of the eyelid is granu-
lar ; its margin exhibits a double row of subquadrate, small plates.
The temporal scales are well developed, and subcarinated or smooth.
The symphyseal is very large, rounded upon its maxillary edge, other-
wise angular. The lower labials are broader than the upper ones, but
not quite so long : the fifth is very small ; the succeeding ones can
hardly be distinguished from the adjoining scales covering the throat,
two series of which may be observed between the labials and the men-
tal shields. The latter are quite developed, constituting four diverg-
PTYCHODEIRA GRACILIS. 343
ing pairs, diminishing in size posteriorly. The scales on the inferior
surface of the head are subrhomboid, smooth, and entire upon their
posterior margin. The neck is slightly contracted, and slightly
wrinkled. The auricular aperture is large, vertically elliptical, pro-
vided with very small scales upon its anterior margin.
The body is slender and depressed. The limbs are slender also :
the anterior, when stretched backwards alongside the body, overlap
the two-thirds of the distance to the groins, whilst the posterior ones,
when similarly brought forwards, will extend their longest toe beyond
the shoulder. The tail is long and very slender, subconical, and
tapering into a point, being more than twice the length of the body.
The dorsal scales are well developed, larger posteriorly than ante-
riorly, rhomboid or sublanceolated, and conspicuously carinated ; on
the tail, they are elongated, and disposed upon verticils, being cari-
nated below as well as above. Upon the lower half of the sides, the
scales are smooth, as well as on the abdomen ; their shape is sub-
rhomboid, and their posterior margin entire, not differing on the pre-
anal region, except that they are smaller upon its periphery. The
upper and anterior aspects of the fore-limbs are covered with carinated
scales, similar to those on the anterior portion of the body. The axilla
is granular. The posterior and inferior aspects of the forearm are pro-
vided with small and smooth scales. The latter are keeled under the
arm, over the palm of the hand, and under the fingers ; on the carpus,
they are quite large and smooth, as also upon the fingers. The fingers
are very slender, whilst the nails are moderate-sized. The inferior
surface of the hind limbs is covered with large and smooth scales ; on
the upper surface, the scales are keeled, resembling those of the back.
The groin and posterior aspect of the thigh are granular in appearance,
so very minute are the scales which cover these regions. On the tarsus
and upper surface of the toes, the scales are carinated, as well as be-
neath, and on the soles of the feet.
The upper regions, in the male, are uniform blackish-brown, with
two light lateral streaks : the inferior regions being uniform yellowish-
brown. In the female, the lateral streaks are whitish ; the upper
streak lined superiorly with a black fillet ; there is also a dorsal series
of small blackish spots, intervening between the two streaks. A
whitish line may likewise be observed over the posterior aspect of the
thigh, which is, at the same time, dotted with black. The inferior
S A U R I A.
regions are whitish or yellowish, with elongated brownish or blackish
spots under the head and throat.
a _ The species is exceedingly abundant among the sandhills on
the coast of Patagonia, where specimens were collected in February,
1839, when a colored sketch of the female was made by Mr. Drayton.
Plate XVII, fig. 22, represents the profile of the female of Ptycho-
deira gracilis, size of life.
Fig. 23, exhibits the same specimen, from beneath.
Fig. 24, is an upper view of the head ;
Fig. 25, a front view of the same.
Fig. 26, the left hand, seen from above.
Fig. 27, a group of dorsal scales ;
Fig. 28, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 24-28, are somewhat magnified.
2. PTYCHODEIRA FEMORATA, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Cephalic plates rugose. Auricular aperture moderate,
denticulated. Supralabials much narrower than the labials. Tem-
poral scales moderate. Sides of the neck slightly wrinkled. Dorsal
scales diminishing in size towards the sides. Abdominal scales
smooth, posteriorly rounded. Tail elongated and slender. Brown-
ish, with two parallel light streaks on each side, and two series of
black spots. Abdomen whitish, unicolor. Inferior surface of head
exhibiting interrupted greyish lines.
SYN. — Proctotretus femoratus, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VII, 1854,
227 j &, in Gillit, U. S. N. Astr. Exped. S. Hemisph. II, 1855, 219. PI. XL, figs. 5-12.
DESCR. — The head is depressed, and quite declivous from the fron-
tal region towards the snout ; viewed from above, it is subtriangular,
subtruncated anteriorly. The cephalic plates are of moderate deve-
lopment, exhibiting, upon their surface, sinuating, subtubercular ridges,
which give to that region a rugose appearance. The vertex plate, a
pair of postoccipitals, and two pairs of postfrontals may be distin-
guished, amid their number, as larger than the rest. Three post-inter-
PTYCHODEIRA FEM GRATA. 345
nal supraoculars hold the same relations towards their analogues as the
former : a concentric chain being observed upon the inner margin of
the supraocular region. The nostril perforates one single plate, more
towards its posterior, or inferior edge, than the anterior. The loral
region being considerably reduced by the declivity of the frontal
region, there are but one or two loral plates. The suborbital chain is
composed of three narrow and elongated plates, provided internally
with a conspicuous and sharp ridge or crest ; the longest occupying
the inferior rim of the orbit ; the other two, its anterior rim ; whilst
the posterior rim is formed by the anterior temporal scales. The su-
praciliary ridge is composed of five or six obliquely superposed plates,
smallest posteriorly. The surface of the eyelid is granular: its margin
being provided with a series of very small plates. The rostral is trans-
versely elongated and very low. The upper labials are elongated and
narrow, six in number, increasing in size from the first to the fourth,
which is the longest, then diminishing again posteriorly. The supra-
labial series is composed of about an equal number of similar, though
narrower, plates. The symphyseal is larger than the rostral, and
especially broader upon its middle region. The lower labials, six or
seven in number, are broader than the upper, diminishing gradually
backwards. There are four pairs of mental shields : the anterior pair
is the largest, contiguous upon their inner margins, whilst the other
pairs diverge as well as diminish in size posteriorly. A series of infra-
labials may be traced from the angle of the mouth to between part of
the first lower labial and the anterior mental shield. The temporal
scales are well developed, particularly the uppermost ; they are poste-
riorly obtuse, imbricated, and distinctly carinated. The sides of the
neck, which exhibit a very obsolete fold, are covered with small,
acute, and carinated scales. The posterior margin of the auricular
aperture, and the scapular region, are minutely granular. The scales
are rather large upon the back, diminishing in size towards the middle
of the flanks, being carinated and acute posteriorly. The inferior
half of the flanks is covered with scales similar to those which exist
on the belly, being only somewhat smaller, and obsoletely carinated.
The abdominal scales are smooth, posteriorly obtuse, and rather
smaller than the dorsal ones ; on the chin and throat, they do not
differ materially from the abdominal ones, though somewhat larger on
the chin than on the throat ; their posterior margin is entire : if an
obsolete notch is to be observed at all, it is in such as occupy the flanks.
87
346
SAURIA.
That notch, however, is owing to the fact that the keels, which are
obsolete there, do not always extend to the posterior margin of the
scales. The upper surface of the anterior limbs is covered with scales,
similar to, but smaller than those on the back, obtuse and smooth upon
their anterior aspect and on the carpus ; under the forearm they are
very small and smooth, increasing in size under the arm, and again
diminishing towards the palm of the hand, which is entirely covered
with them, and not only carinated and posteriorly acerated, but pro-
vided also with a lateral acute process, particularly developed upon the
metacarpal region. The fingers are plated and smooth above ; they
are provided beneath with small scales, carinated, acerated, and dis-
posed upon regular transverse series. The hind limbs and the feet
are covered above with scales similar but smaller than those on the
back, and larger than on the fore-limbs, carinated even over the feet.
The anterior aspect of the tibia and metatarsus exhibits very small,
almost granular scales. The posterior aspect of the thighs is granular,
whilst their inferior aspect is covered anteriorly with scales similar to
those of the abdomen, and posteriorly with three or four series of sub-
carinated scales, somewhat acute, and projecting beyond the surface
of these organs, the external series being the most developed. On the
soles of the feet, the scales are quite small, acute, and more distinctly
keeled. . The toes are surrounded with small subverticillated scales,
more uniform and more distinctly keeled beneath than above. The
scales are somewhat larger at the base of the tail than on the back.
The ground color is olivaceous-brown or blackish. The upper sur-
face of the head is either unicolor or dotted with blackish ; its sides
generally exhibit two or three oblique and black lines, extending from
beneath the orbit towards either the margin, or the angle of the mouth.
The suborbital ridge may be black also. There are two parallel light
streaks, on the sides of the body : the uppermost extending from the
supraciliary ridge to a portion of the tail ; the lower one extends from
the temporal region across the upper edge of the auricular aperture,
and above the insertion of the fore-limb, to the groin. The dorsal re-
gion sometimes is lighter than the sides, having then the appearance of
a broad streak. There are two series of black, transversely elongated
spots, with a light margin : the intervening space being dark brown.
The first series follows the inner edge of the upper streak ; the
second is inclosed between the two streaks. The lower half of the
flanks, beneath the lower streak, is covered with irregularly vertical,
PTYCHODEIRA CYAXOGASTER. 347
or rounded black spots. Beneath, the body is unicolor, whitish, or
greyish ; numerous interrupted series of linear spots are observed under
the head. A black, irregular spot may be seen at the insertion of the
fore-limbs. The series of dorsal spots extends along the upper surface
and sides of the tail ; the latter is maculated beneath with greyish.
The limbs above are transversely barred, and beneath of the same hue
as the abdomen.
In some, probably male specimens, the streaks and spots- are less
distinct, immerging into the ground color. The sides of the abdomen
being of a reddish metallic hue, with black and bluish small spots.
Loc.— One specimen was collected at Valparaiso, Chile,
3. PTYCHODEIRA STANTONI, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Cephalic plates rugose. Auricular aperture moderate,
subdenticulated. Supralabials exiguous, elongated. Temporal scales
large. Sides of neck slightly wrinkled. Dorsal and lateral scales
subequal. Abdominal scales slightly keeled, posteriorly rounded.
Tail elongated and slender. Deep reddish-brown posteriorly, with
two light streaks on each side ; beneath unicolor.
SYN. — Proctotretus stantoni, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VII, 1854, 227 ;
&, in Gill is*, U. S. N. Astron. Exped. S. Hemisph. II, 1855, 221, PL XL, figs. 13-20.
OBSERV. — No specimens of this species having been collected by the
naturalists of the Expedition, we have simply recalled its characteristic
features to serve here as terms of comparison.
Loc. — Has been observed in the neighborhood of Santiago, Chile.
4. PTYCHODEIRA CYANOGASTER, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Cephalic plates smooth or slightly wrinkled (rumpled) .
Supralabials quadrilateral, oblong. Temporal scales moderate.
Auricular aperture large, simple. Sides of neck conspicuously
SAURIA.
wrinkled, granular within the folds, and scaly exteriorly. Dorsal
and lateral scales subequal. Abdominal scales smooth, subelliptical,
posteriorly rounded. Tail very long, thick, and depressed at the
base, conical and tapering posteriorly. Greenish-brown or coppery,
with a yellow streak on each side of the back ; beneath bluish, uni-
color.
. — Proctotretus cyanogaster, DtJM. & BIER. Erp6t. gen. IV, 1837, 273. — BELL,
Zool. Voy. Beagle, V, 1843, 12. PI. V, fig. 2.— GUICH. in Gay, Hist, de Chile, Zool.
II, 1848, 28. Lam. n, fig. 2.— DUM. Voy. Venus, Zool. 1855, 292. PI. n, fig. 2.
Liolaemus (Liodeira) cyanogatter, FITZ. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 74.
Liolaemus cyanogaster, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 212.
OBSERV. — This species, like the preceding one, is not represented in
the collection made by the U. S. Exploring Expedition : hence, a
fuller description is not deemed here in place.
LOG. — Observed upon various points in Chile.
5. PTTCHODEIRA INTERMEDIA, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Supralabials well developed, One series and a half of
infralabial plates. Mental shields very numerous. Auricular aper-
ture large, and simple in front. Temporal scales large. Abdominal
scales rather broad, and rounded posteriorly. Tail long and slender.
Dorsal region and flanks blackish-brown, with two longitudinal yel-
lowish-brown streaks, one along the upper portion of the flanks, from
the orbit to some distance along the tail, the other from the auricu-
lar aperture to the groin. Tipper surface of head, limbs, and tail
olivaceous-brown. Beneath unicolor.
SYN. — Proctotretus intermedia, BUM. Voy. Venus, Zool. 1855, 290. PI. II, fig. 1.
OBSERV. — This species resembles P. cyanogaster, to which it is closely
related. It differs mainly by the proportional development of its cepha-
lic and loral plates, and a more extended series of mental shields, which
may be traced almost to the throat. Its abdominal scales are likewise
broader posteriorly, being subrhomboid in their outlines. In the " Cata-
logue methodique de la Collection de Reptiles du Museum d'histoire
RHYTIDODEIRA. • 349
naturelle, 1851, 72," P. intermedia was erroneously considered as iden-
tical with P. mosaica. It is admirably figured in " Du Petit Thouars'
Voyage de la Venus," but not described as fully as might be desirable
in the present state of our Knowledge.
LOG. — Republic of Chile.
6. PTYCHODEIRA MOSAICA, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Labials much larger than the supralabials. Two large
lorals, and two small postnasals. Five or six pairs of mental shields.
Temporal scales moderate. Auricular aperture subtubercular. Ab-
dominal scales posteriorly rounded. Dark brown; middle region of
the back light brown; two light streaks, and two series of black sub-
quadrate spots, on each side.
SYN. — Proclotretus mosaicut, HOMER. & JACQ. Voy. au Pole Sud et dans 1'Oce-
anie. Rept. Sauriens. PI. rr, fig. 1. — GUICH. in Gay, Hist, de Chile, ZooL II,
1848, 26.— DUM. & A. DUM. Catal. meth. Rept. Mus. d'hist. nat. i, 1851, 72.
OBSERV. — In the " Catalogue methodique des Reptiles du Museum
d'histoire naturelle," Messrs. Dumeril consider this species as identical
with P. intermedia, subsequently, however, given as a distinct species.
The latter is more closely allied to P. cyanogaster than to any other
we are so far acquainted with.
Loc. — Republic of Chile.
SUBGENUS RHYTIDODEIRA, GIRARD.
CHAR. GEN*. — Seutis cephalicis modicis, amplioribus, non imbricatis,
laevibus. Unica serie sctttorum supralabialium. Naribus latera-
libus. Squamis .temporalibus imbricatis, laevibus, vel subcarinatis.
Aurium margine anteriore granuloso, tuberculato, vel subdenticulato.
Colli lateribiis plicatis, granulosis ; plicatura scapulari vertico-ob-
liqua nulla. Squamis dorsualibus rhomboideis, carinatis, acumina-
tis; abdominalibus rhomboideis, laevibus, postice plerumque integris.
88
350
S A U R I A.
Femorum facie posteriori vel omnino granulosa, vel squamis parvis
imbricatis, prope basim caudae, tecta. Corpore vittis lonyitudinalibm
varii colons, quibus macularum series permiscuntur, notato ; interdum
tamen transverse fasciato.
GEN. CHAR. — Cephalic plates moderate, rather well developed, not im-
bricated, smooth ; one series of supralabials. Nostrils lateral. Tem-
poral scales imbricated, smooth, or subcarinated. Auricular aper-
ture granular, tubercular, or subdenticulated in front. Sides of neck
wrinkled, granular; no vertico-oblique scapular fold. Dorsal scales
rhomboid, carinated, acuminated ; abdominal scales rhomboid,
smooth, generally entire posteriorly. Posterior aspect of thighs
either wholly granular or provided with a patch of small scales near
the tail. Coloration : longitudinal streaks of various hues, with
intervening series of spots, occasionally, however, transversely
banded, instead of being streaked.
SYN. — Rhytidodeira, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857, 198.
OBSERV. — Differs from Ptycliodeira, its nearest relative, by smooth
temporal scales, and the presence, on the sides of the neck, of
granules, instead of small scales, such as are observed on the body.
The folds or wrinkles are also more conspicuously developed in Rhyti-
dodeira than in Ptycliodeira.
1. RHYTIDODEIRA KINGI, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Body robust and full. Head short and thick ; snout
rounded. Supralabial plates oval, moderate-sized. Temporal scales
moderate-sized, somewhat raised. Auricular aperture large, oval,
granular, or subdenticulated in front. Dorsal and lateral scales
subequal, moderate ; abdominal ones posteriorly rounded and
entire. Posterior aspect of thighs granular, with a patch of small
scales near the tail. Rich dark brown above, with transverse,
whitish, black-margined bands and spots. Beneath yellowish-white,
with dark spots ; throat bluish-grey, with white spots.
SYN.— Proctotretus kingii, BELL, Zool. Voy. Beagle, V, 1843, 13. PI. vi, fig. 1.
Liolaemus kingii, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 215.
BHYTIDODEIRA MAGELLANICA, 351
Rhytidodeira kingii, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857, 198.
OBSERV. — Not met with by the U. S. Exploring Expedition, and
having no specimens at our command, it is not deemed expedient to
enlarge upon this species.
Loc. — Port Desire, Patagonia.
2. RHYTIDODEIRA MAGELLANICA, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — General form thickish and short. Head rather small ;
snout short and obtuse. Cephalic plates somewhat convex; supra-
labials smaller than the labials. Five very small lorals, and two
small postnasals. One series of infralabials. Four pairs of mental
shields. Temporal scales small and smooth. Auricular aperture
small, bituberculated in front. Abdominal scales posteriorly
rounded. Posterior aspect of thighs wholly granular. Tail rather
short. Blackish-brown above, with five longitudinal white streaks,
between which may be observed series of irregularly quadrangular,
jet-black spots, anteriorly and posteriorly margined with white.
SYN. — Proctotretus magellanicus, HOMBR. & JACQ. Voy. au Pole Sud et dans
I'Oceanie. PI. n, fig. 2 ; &, B b b'.— GUICH. in Gay, Hist, de Chile, Zool. II, 1848,
46.— DUM. & A. DUM. Catal. meth. Kept. Mus d'hist. nat. i, 1851, 75.
Proctotretus kingii, BELL, Zool. Voy. Beagle, V, 1843. PL vi, fig. 2.
Rhytidodeira magellanica, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857,
198.
OBSERV. — This is a very handsome species, next to P. splen&idus
in beauty, though of a very different style. Here, no metallic reflec-
tions, no glittering of iridescent hues, but simply the white and black,
so distributed as to produce a most pleasing effect to the eye. It is
admirably figured in the "Voyage au Pole Sud et dans I'Oceanie."
It was not secured by the Exploring Expedition, which, during its stay
at Tierra del Fuego, " met no reptile of any kind."
Loc. — Pecket Harbor, Strait of Magellan, and Port Desire", Pata-
gonia.
352
S A IT R I A.
3. RHYTIDODEIKA BIBRONI, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Body subfusiform, moderately slender. Head rather
short, obtuse, covered with rather well-developed, convex plates.
Supralabials elongated, quadrangular, nearly equal to the labials.
Auricular aperture moderate, oval, unidentated. Temporal scales
rounded. Dorsal and lateral scales subequal, large; abdominal
ones rounded and entire. Posterior aspect of thighs wholly granu-
lar. Brownish-grey, with a black longitudinal line along the middle
of the back and tail. Two series of black spots on each side, and a
small interrupted fascia, of the same color, from the shoulder to the
thigh. Limbs maculated with black. Belly of a uniform dirty
white.
SYN. — Proctotretus bibronii, BELL, Zool. Voy. Beagle, V, 1843, 6. PI. in, fig. 1.
Liolaemus bibronii, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 212.
Rhytidodeira bibroni, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857, 198.
OBSERV. — Of this vejy characteristic species, no specimens were
obtained by the U. S. Exploring Expedition.
Loc. — Port Desire", Patagonia.
4. RHYTIDODEIRA WIEGMANNI, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head rather short ; snout obtuse and rounded. Two
series of supralabial plates, smaller than the labials. Auricular
aperture moderate, granular in front. Dorsal and lateral scales
subequal, moderate ; abdominal ones rounded and entire. Poste-
rior aspect of thighs granular, with a patch of scales near the tail.
Above greyish, with a fawn band on each side, situated between
two series of angular black spots. A black streak, margined with
white, along the thigh.
SYN. — Proctotretus wieymannii, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 284. — GUICH.
in Gay, Hist, de Chile, Zool. II, 1848, 36.— DUM. Voy. Venus, Zool. 1855, 295. PI.
in, fig. 2.
Plychodeira wiegmanni, FITZ. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 73.
Rhytidodeira wiegmanni, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857, 198.
RHYTIDODEIRA OXYCEPHALA. 353
OBSERV. — Not among the reptiles collected by the U. S. Exploring
Expedition.
Loc. — Republic of Chile.
5. RHYTIDODEIRA NIGROMACULATA, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head short ; snout rounded and obtuse. Supralabial
plates quadrangular and well developed. Temporal scales large,
superiorly keeled, inferiorly smooth. Scales, on sides of neck, thick
and rhomboid; lateral and abdominal scales smaller than the dorsal
ones, and posteriorly emarginated. Posterior aspect of thighs wholly
granular. Tail rather short. Greyish-fawn, with two series of
angular black spots on each side ; a large scapular black patch ;
thighs posteriorly black-dotted.
STN. — Tropidurus niyromaculatus, WIEGM. in Nov. Act. Acad. nat. cur. XVII, I,
1835, 229.
Procfotretus ni'gromacuhitus, PCM. & BIER. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 281.— BELL, Zool.
Voy. Beagle, V, 1843, 10. PL IV, fig. 2.— GUICH. in Gay, Hist, de Chile, Zool. II,
1848, 34.— DUM. Voy. Venus, Zool. 1855, 293. PI. in, fig. 1.
Ptychodeira niyromaculata, FlTZ. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 73.
. Lwlaemus niyromaculatus, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 213.
Rhytidodeira niyromaculata, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. NoTember.
1857, 198.
OBSERV. — This species was not amongst those collected by the U. S.
Exploring Expedition, and hence, is here not further described.
Loc. — Republic of Chile.
6. RHYTIDODEIRA OXYCEPHALA, Grd.
(Plate XXVIII, figs. 26-33.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Head very much depressed, rather short ; snout rather
narrow, though rounded off upon its periphery. Labial and supra-
labial plates narrow and elongated ; supralabials smaller than the
labials. Auricular aperture large, granular in front. Temporal
89
354
S A U R I A.
scales large and smooth. Sides of the neck coarsely granular.
Dorsal scales larger than the lateral and abdominal ones ; lateral
scales keeled; abdominal scales posteriorly rounded and entire.
Posterior aspect of thighs wholly granular. Yellowish-brown, with
a dorsal black line, on each side of which is a series of transversely
elongated, and oblique, blackish-brown spots, posteriorly white-mar-
gined ; sides variegated with brown and white. Beneath blackish-
grey ; chin and throat white-dotted ; abdomen unicolor.
SYN. — Tropidurus oxycephalus, WIEGM. in Nov. Act. Acad.nat. cur. XVII, i, 1835,
232.
Liolaemus oxycephalus, GRAVENH. in Nov. Act. Acad. nat. cur. XVIII, n, 1838, 735.
PI. LIV, fig. 13.
Rhytidodeira oxycephala, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857, 198.
OBSERV. — This species is allied to R. nigromaculata, from which it
chiefly differs by a narrower snout, more exiguous labials and supra-
labials, and entire abdominal scales, which are posteriorly rounded off.
DESCR. — The cephalic plates stand as follows : two pairs of inter-
nals, the anterior smaller than the posterior; two pairs of fronto-
nasals, a middle one, contiguous, in size and shape like the posterior
pair of internasals, and a smaller pair, situated exteriorly to the
former ; three pairs of frontals ; two prefrontal pairs : the middle one
largest, elongated, with two small subhexagonal interfrontals between
them, the foremost a little larger, and engaging somewhat between the
fronto-nasal, the external pair slender, exiguous ; the postfrontal paii%,
subpentagonal, and shorter than the middle prefrontals, are contigu-
ous, admitting slightly the hindmost interfrontal between the anterior
portion of their commissure ; a vertex plate, elongated, laterally sub-
concave, and posteriorly tapering ; four pairs of small subequal parie-
tals, the foremost contiguous, interposing between the vertex plate
and the middle occipital, the others diverging between the occipitals
and supraoculars ; a middle occipital, inclosed by the two anterior
pairs of parietals and a pair of rather well-developed postoccipitals,
contiguous upon their inner edge ; one pair of latero-occipitals, situated
sideways of the postoccipitals ; finally, a semicircular chain of small
transversely elongated plates interposes between the temporal scales,
on one hand, and the scales of the neck, on the other hand.
Now, as to the supraoculars : the posterior four middle ones are
RHYTIDODEIRA OXYCEPHALA. 355
conspicuously larger than the rest of the same name ; they are, as
usual, polygonal, transversely elongated ; in the concentric chain,
they are subequal, and slightly larger than in the longitudinal series,
which interposes between the middle ones and the supraciliary chain.
The latter is composed of six, thin, tiled laminae, immediately above
the eye, and a thicker one upon the side of the snout. A subpyriform
nasal, posteriorly perforated by the nostril, would be placed within the
supraciliary ridge, if the latter was extended forwards ; it is contigu-
ous, by its narrow extremity, to the rostral. There are two exiguous
supranasals, placed one in advance of the other, and three very small,
unequal postnasals. The inferior edge of the nasal plate is contiguous
to the supralabial series.
On the loral region, we observe but two small plates, that we can call
by that name, an anterior one, subtriangular, extending upwards in
front of the supraciliary ridge, and might be numbered as one of that
series, and a posterior one, somewhat smaller, pentagonal, or polygo-
nal. Two anteorbitals : the uppermost is situated in advance of the
elongated suborbital ; the lower one, elongated, is placed immediately
beneath the upper, smaller than the latter, and does not enter into the
orbit. At the posterior rim of the orbit, there are two small, ecaly
plates, behind the suborbital; the rest is formed by the anterior scales
of the temporal region. The supralabials, five or six in number, are
narrow, elongated, and somewhat smaller than the labials : the ante-
rior one is smaller than the rest, which increase in size to the fifth or
sixth, the latter not extending as far as the suborbital.
The rostral is quite narrow, transversely elongated. The upper
labials, six or seven in number, increase in size posteriorly to the fifth
or sixth ; the last is less regularly linear than the rest in the series,
being also generally the smallest. The symphyseal is hemidiscoid,
and larger than the rostral. The lower labials, five on either side,
gradually diminish in size backwards, being anteriorly larger than the
upper labials. We observe one series of infralabials, and four pairs of
mental shields : the anterior pair, as usual, contiguous upon their
inner edges. The scales, on the remaining portion of the chin and on
the throat, are subequal, smooth, subrhomboid, posteriorly einarginated,
and somewhat less developed than on the abdomen. The temporal
scales are rather large and smooth. The scales are subequal on the
back and abdomen ; on ' the flanks, smaller ; the former keeled and
acuminated ; the latter subacuminated and obsoletely keeled ; the
356 SAURIA.
abdominal ones smooth, rounded, and some of them emarginated pos-
teriorly ; on the tail, larger than on the back ; under that organ,
smooth near the base, keeled further towards the apex.
A colored sketch having been made in May, 1839, we have thus
before us the unchanged tints of, at least, one stage of growth of this
species. The ground color above is yellowish-brown : the upper sur-
face and sides of the head being unicolor. A black line may be traced
along the middle region of the back, on each side of which, and conti-
guous to it, is a series of dark brown, transversely elongated, oblique
spots, posteriorly margined with white ; their direction being downwards
and forwards from the dorsal line. These spots may still be observed on
the base of the tail, though gradually disappearing, leaving, to a certain
distance, the middle line isolated, which also fades away before it reaches
the tip of that organ. The upper portion of the flank exhibits a series
of broken-up spots, likewise edged with white posteriorly, and extend-
ing from the axilla to the groin. Upon the middle portion of the
flank may be observed a series of small, white spots, whilst the lower
portion of the same region is of a uniform brownish-gold hue. The
inferior surface of the head is dark bluish-black, white-speckled. The
abdomen and lower aspect of the limbs are light bluish-black also,
though unicolor. The tail beneath being yellowish.
Loc. — From the middle region of the Cordilleras, at an altitude of
eight thousand feet.
Plate XXVIII, fig. 26, represents Rhytidodeira oxycephala, size of
life.
Fig. 27, is an upper view of the head ;
Fig. 28, a profile of the same ;
Fig. 29, the head, seen from beneath.
Fig. 30, the left hand, from above ;
Fig. 31, the same hand, from beneath.
Fig. 32, a group of dorsal scales ;
Fig. 33, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 27-33, are somewhat magnified.
EULAEMUS. 357
SUBGBNUS EULAEMUS, GIRARD.
CHAR. GEN. — Scutis cephalitis modicis vel amplioribus, laevibus; supra-
iabialibus in unicam seriem dispositis. Naribus lateralibus. Squamis
temporalibus eubimbricalis, subcarinatis, vel laevibus. Apertura audi-
toria magna, ejus anteriori margine denticulate vel tuberculoso. Colli
lateribws plicatis et granulosis. Plicatura scapnlari vertico-obtiqua.
Sqiiamis dorsualibus modicis, subrhomboideis, leviter carinatis, postice
obtusis; lateralibus miiwribus, vel subaequalibus ; abdominalibus rJiom-
boideis, vel rotundis et inlegris. Tola femorum facie posteriori granu-
losa, vel minutissime sqiiamata. Colore fiucato, cum transversis nigris
vel fuscis maculis, vel fasciis plerumque claro marginatis, interdum
tamen vittis longitwlinalibus obsoletis,
GEX. CHAR. — Cephalic plates moderately, or else well developed,
smooth ; one series of supralabials. Nostrils lateral. Temporal
scales subimbricated, subcarinated, or smooth. Auricular aperture
large, denticulated, or tubercular in front. Sides of the neck
wrinkled and granular; a vertico-oblique scapular fold. Dorsal
scales moderate, subrhomboid, slightly carinated, posteriorly obtuse;
lateral ones rather smaller, or subequal; abdominal scales rhomboid,
or rounded, and entire. Posterior aspect of thighs wholly granular,
else minutely scaly. Coloration: transverse black, or brown, gene-
rally light-margined spots, or bands, upon a rather dark ground ;
longitudinal streaks obsolete, if at all present.
SYN. — Eulaemus, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857, 198.
OBSERV. — The sides of the neck are wrinkled and granular, as in
Rhytidoddra, but there is, in addition, a vertico-oblique fold in ad-
vance of the shoulder, and which is wanting in the latter. The
dorsal scales are smaller also, but slightly carinated, the keels not pro-
truding beyond the posterior edge of the scales, which is rounded, in-
stead of being acuminated.
90
358
S A U R I A.
1. EULAEMUS TENUIS, Grd.
(Plate XXVIII, figs. 9-16.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Cephalic plates usually smooth, occasionally covered
with minute granules. Auricular aperture anteriorly subtubercular.
Supralabials smaller than the labials. Temporal scales moderate,
subcarinated. Two series of infralabials. Four pairs of mental
shields. Dorsal scales small ; lateral scales smaller, not imbricated,
obscurely keeled ; abdominal scales smooth. Posterior aspect of
thighs wholly granular. Tail long and slender. Brownish-black
above, with transverse, subcrescentic, black bands ; beneath varie-
gated.
SYN. — Proctotretus tennis, BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 279. — BELL, Zool.
Voy. Beagle, V, 1843, 7. PI. in, fig. 2.— GUICH. in Gay, Hist, de Chile, Zool. II, 1848,
32. Erp. Lam. I, fig. 1. — HOMBE. & JACQ. Voy. au Pole Sud et dans 1'Oceanie. PI.
n, bis, fig. 2.— GRD. in Gilliss, U. S. N. Astron. Exped. S. Hemisph. II, 1855, 217.
PL XL, figs. 1-4.
Liolaemus (Liodeira) tennis, FITZ. Syst. Eept. I, 1843, 74.
Liolaemus tennis, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 214.
Liolaemns punctatns, GRAY, MSS. Brit. Mus. 1836.
Eulaemus tennis, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857, 198.
DESCB. — The form, although slender in its general appearance, is
less a characteristic of this species than it really is for several others
of its congeners. The body is depressed ; swollen upon its middle
region ; the limbs being moderate-sized : the anterior pair, when
stretched alongside the body, is far from attaining the groins, and
the tip of the longest toe of the posterior pair, when brought forwards,
reaches the middle region of the neck. The tail is elongated, conical,
tapering into a point, and nearly twice as long as the body and head
together. The tongue is large and fleshy, elongated and depressed,
sublanceolated, occupying the whole space between the two branches
of the lower jaw. The teeth are of moderate development, smallest
anteriorly, and subcylindrical ; whilst posteriorly, they are somewhat
compressed, or else stouter at the base.
The head is depressed, subtriangular when viewed from above, and
rounded upon the snout. The plates, which cover its surface, are
generally smooth, but exhibit sometimes a very minute granulation,
apparent only through a magnifying glass. The cephalic plates, pro-
ETJLAEMUS TENUIS.
359
perly so called, vary as regards both size and number, being smallest
when most numerous. In the specimen figured, there are three
pairs of frontals, one pair of postoccipitals, an odd occipital, a vertex
plate, and an odd frontal, which are somewhat larger than the rest,
and nearly equal-sized. An inner series of supraoculars may be
noticed as the next in size, separated from the vertex plate and the
occipitals by a concentric series of smaller plates. There is but one,
rather small, nasal, in the midst of which the nostril opens, leaving
but a narrow rim. The loral region is occupied by several small
plates. The anterior suborbitals are more developed than the poste-
rior one, all of which being provided with a keel along their inner
margin. The supraciliary ridge is composed of about six elongated,
narrow, and obliquely superposed plates. The eyelids are covered
with very small plates, the marginal series being somewhat more
developed than the rest, except upon the periphery. The rostral is
transversely elongated and very low. The upper labials are very
much elongated and narrow, six or seven in number, increasing in
length from the first to the fourth inclusive, diminishing again con-
siderably backwards. The supralabials have the same general appear-
ance as the labials, save in being somewhat smaller. Occasionally,
two or more minute plates may be observed upon the loral region,
between the loral plates proper and the supralabials. The temporal
scales are of moderate size, and nearly equal to the postoccipitals;
they are irregularly rounded, slightly imbricated, and provided either
with a rudimentary tubercle or an obsolete keel. The symphyseal is
larger than the rostral, and especially broader upon its middle region.
The lower labials, five or six in number, are broader than the upper,
more conspicuous therefore, and diminishing gradually backwards.
There are four or five pairs of mental shields : the anterior pair being
the largest, and contiguous upon their inner margin, whilst the other
pairs diverge, and diminish gradually in size backwards. Between the
mental shields and lower labial plates there exists a complete series, and
part of a second, of small infralabials. The chin, the throat, the belly,
the preanal region, thighs, and legs, are covered with smooth, poste-
riorly obtuse, and mostly entire scales, of moderate development,
somewhat smaller on the chin, and larger under the hind limbs ; a
few on the sides of the belly exhibiting a small notch posteriorly.
The sides of the neck, the insertion of the limbs, the inferior surface
of the forearm, and the posterior surface of the thighs, are granular.
360 SAURIA.
On the sides of the abdomen, the scales are irregularly rounded, sub-
tuberculous, or subcarinated, and smaller than those of the dorsal
region, which are distinctly, though moderately, carinated, and poste-
riorly obtuse. The upper surface of the limbs, and the inferior surface
of the arm, are covered with scales similar in shape and structure to
those on the back ; on the palm of the hands and the sole of the feet,
they are much smaller, posteriorly acute, and distinctly carinated ;
around the fingers and toes, they constitute irregular verticils : the
superior ones varying more in size, and are less distinctly carinated
than the inferior. The inner or first finger is the smallest; the outer-
most is the next in length ; then the second ; the third is nearly as
long as the fourth, which is the longest. The nails are rather short,
compressed, acerated, and gently curved. The first toe is the smallest;
the second is the next in length ; then the fifth ; then the third ; the
fourth being the longest. Their nails do not differ materially from
those at the fingers. The scales which cover the tail are most conspi-
cuous of all; they constitute oblique series upon the base of that organ,
and annular rows further backwards. The oblique series have the
same shape as those on the back. Those constituting the annular
rows or verticils are superiorly subquadrangular and elongated, with
an oblique keel, whilst beneath, they become much narrower, poste-
riorly acute, with a straight keel along their middle region.
The ground color is blackish-brown in the male, and greenish-brown
in the female. In either sex, there are two parallel series of transverse
black spots, convex anteriorly, white-margined, with a whitish, or else
a lighter tint along their concavity. These spots, however, are more
conspicuous in the female than in the male ; they may be traced from
the head, on each side of the dorsal region, to the posterior extremity
of the body, where the series, from either side, combine more or less
into one, and, as such, extends along the upper region of the tail.
The limbs, as well as the tail, are transversely barred with black. In
the female, the dorsal region and the flanks are either dotted with
black or spotted with whitish ; whilst in the male, the spots are either
bluish, reddish, or else of a metallic green, especially on the neck. The
upper surface and sides of the head are spotted with different shades
of black, or dotted with yellow and black. The occipital region and
the back, in the male, occasionally exhibit sinuating black lines upon
a brownish ground, over which are bluish, greenish, or slate-colored
spots. Beneath, the ground color is whitish, vermiculated, maculated,
EULAEMUS DARWIN I.
361
or clouded with greyish lines, spots, or dots. That region, sometimes,
is unicolor in the female.
The specimen figured was sketched and colored from life in May,
1839.
LOG. — Caught in the neighborhood of Valparaiso, Chile.
Plate XXVIII, fig. 9, represents Eulaemus tennis, size of life.
Fig. 10, is an upper view of the head ;
Fig. 11, a profile view ; and,
Fig. 12, an under view of the same region.
Fig. 13, the right hand, seen from above ;
Fig. 14, the same, seen from beneath.
Fig. 15, exhibits a group of dorsal scales ;
Fig. 16, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 10-16, are somewhat magnified.
2. EULAEMTTS DARWINI, Grd.
•
(Plate XVII, figs. 8-14.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Cephalic plates minutely granular. Supralabials nearly
equal to the labials. Temporal scales subcarinated. Auricular
aperture subtubercular. Three series of infralabials. Six or seven
pairs of mental shields. Dorsal and lateral scales subequal, all
keeled ; abdominal scales rather larger, subrhomboid, subacumi-
nated, emarginated on the sides of the belly. Posterior aspect of
thighs granular, with a patch of scales near the tail. Tail moderate,
subconical, and pointed. Greyish-brown, with two light longitudi-
nal streaks on each side, and four series of quadrangular black spots,
posteriorly margined with white ; beneath yellowish-white ; throat
black in the male.
SYN.— Proctotretus dartcinii, BELL, Zool. Toy. Beagle, V. 1843, 14. PI. vn, figs.
1-2.
Liolaemus daria'nii, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 215.
Eulaemus darwini, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857, 198.
OBSERV. — Had we had for our sole guidance the figures given in the
Zoology of the Beagle, we would have hesitated identifying this species.
91
SAURIA.
Finding, however, that Bell's description, as far as it goes, applies to
it almost strictly, we give it under the above name.
DESCR. — The head is subdepressed, declivous upon the frontal
region : the snout being obtuse and rounded ; it is separated from the
body by a somewhat contracted neck. The body itself is subdepressed
also, convex above, flattened beneath, and somewhat broader than
deep. The limbs are of moderate development : the anterior ones
much more slender than the posterior. When the latter are brought
forwards in a line with the body, the tip of the longest toe is made to
reach the shoulder, whilst the anterior limbs, directed backwards,
extend to two-thirds of the distance to the groins. The tail, sub-
conical, slightly depressed upon its base, and tapering into a point, is
one-fifth longer than the body and head together.
The cephalic plates are subtubercular, nearly smooth, and irregular
in size and shape, all of moderate development : the largest ones may
be observed upon the occipital and frontal region. There is a middle
row of transversely elongated supraoculars, nearly as conspicuous as
the ones just mentioned, and surrounded, along the region of the
vertex, by one chain of smaller plates, forming an arc or semicircle,
and, along the supraciliary line, by a double series of still smaller
plates. The supraciliary ridge itself is composed of nine plates : six
thin lamelliform, superposed above the eye, and three stoutish, keeled
ones, placed in advance of the orbit, continuing the ridge to the
upper labials. The nasal, subpyriform, is situated upon that ridge,
with the nostril towards its posterior margin, which is the broadest ;
it is separated from the rostral by the anterior supralabial and a small
internaso-rostral. The rostral is very much depressed, subconvex, or
rounded above, and nearly linear sideways and beneath. The upper
labials, eight in number, slightly increasing in size posteriorly, are
generally longer than deep. The supralabials, which constitute but
one series, are eight in number, similar in size and shape to the upper
labials, with this exception, that the three posterior are the smallest of
the series. There are three suborbitals : the middle one is as usually
much the longest ; the anterior is shorter and wider than the poste-
rior. Three small loral plates may be observed between the supralabials,
the suborbitals, and supraciliaries. The surface of the eyelid is granu-
lar, whilst its margin is provided with a double row of small subquad-
rangular plates. The temporal region is covered with small scales, sub-
EULAEMUS DARWINL 353
carinated, and apparently smooth. The symphyseal is subpentagonal,
with its base towards the margin of the jaw. The lower labials are
seven in number, larger than the upper labials upon the middle of the
series, diminishing in size both anteriorly and posteriorly. We observe
six pairs of mental shields, diminishing in size posteriorly. There
are two or three series of elongated scales, between the latter and the
lower labials. The scales which cover the throat are apparently
smaller than on the belly, since they are truncated and rounded pos-
teriorly, but are similarly notched or bicuspid. There is a longitudi-
nal fold along the middle region of the side of the neck, which is some-
times transversely undulated; also a small vertical fold in advance of
the shoulder. The entire area, from the auricular aperture to the
shoulder, is granular. The aperture just alluded to is well developed,
vertically elliptical, and provided in front with granules, instead of
scales.
The dorsal scales are of moderate development, keeled, and poste-
riorly rounded : the carination being not very conspicuous ; they are
smaller along the middle of the back than on its sides, and smaller
still upon the neck than farther behind. The regions of the axillae
and groins are almost granular, so much is the size of the scales
reduced. The abdominal scales are a little smaller than those on the
middle of the flanks ; they are irregular in their outline, though gene-
rally rounded upon their posterior margin, which is entire. The pos-
terior margin of the scales occupying the middle of the flanks, on the
other hand, is notched or else bifid. The scales are smaller on the
periphery of the preanal region than upon its middle ; they are most
conspicuous on the tail, subverticillated, and more strongly and ob-
liquely carinated. The preanal margin is straight; we observe eight
or ten preanal pores.
On the anterior and upper aspects of the forearm, the scales are sub-
lanceolated, carinated, and larger than those on the back ; the poste-
rior and inferior aspects are granular ; around the arm and on the
hand, they are more truncated than the former, appearing conse-
quently smaller ; they are keeled above, and smooth beneath, as well
as on the hand, whilst they again are keeled on the palm of the hand,
where they are quite small. The scales which protect the fingers are
keeled also, more conspicuously beneath than above. The upper aspect
of the hind limbs is covered with keeled scales, and smooth ones
beneath. The posterior aspect of the thigh is granular, except a small
S A U R I A.
area near the tail, which is covered with small scales. The toes, like
the fingers, are very slender, and covered by similar scales.
The ground color is blackish-grey or brown ; the upper surface of
the head and neck sometimes uniformly so, and at others, dotted with
white and black. There are two light longitudinal streaks on each
side : the uppermost is brownish-yellow, inclosing two dorsal series of
quadrangular black patches, separated transversely by a yellowish or
whitish spot or bar; these spots sometimes alternate, at others are
placed opposite to one another ; they are either distinct upon their
inner margin or else contiguous. Another series of quadrangular
black patches is observed along the flanks, between the two light
streaks ; they are likewise separated by a transverse, yellowish, or
whitish bar. The upper aspect of the limbs is maculated with black
and white, or yellowish. The inferior surface of the head, body, limbs,
and tail, is uniform whitish, or dull yellow, except in the male, in which
the lower part of the neck is provided with a black, somewhat diffused
blotch.
LOG. — Specimens of this species were collected on the 10th of Feb-
ruary, 1839, on the coast of Patagonia, one of which was sketched
from life by Mr. Drayton. They are said to be quite abundant among
the sandhills.
Plate XVII, fig. 8, represents Eulaemus darwini, in profile and size
of life.
Fig. 9, exhibits the same specimen, from beneath.
Fig. 10, is the head, seen from above ;
Fig. 11, a front view of the head.
Fig. 12, left hand, seen from above.
Fig. 13, a group of dorsal scales ;
Fig. 14, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 10-14, are somewhat magnified.
3. EULAEMUS PICTUS, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head pyramido-quadrangular ; snout narrow. Tempo-
ral scales small, hexagonal, subcarinated. Auricular aperture rather
large, tubercular in front. Dorsal scales rhomboid ; lateral scales
EULAEMUS FITZIXGERI.
365
somewhat smaller, and nearly smooth, or obsoletely carinated ;
abdominal scales posteriorly rounded. Posterior aspect of thighs
wholly granular. Coloration variable.
SYN. — Proctotretus pictus, DOM. & BIER. Erp&. gen. IV, 1837, 276. — BELL, Zool.
Voy. Beagle, V, 1843, 5. PI. n, figs. 1 & 2.— HOMBB. & JACQ. Voy. au Pole Sud et
dans 1'Oceanie. PI. n, bis, fig. 1. — GUICH. in Gay, Hist, de Chile, Zool. II, 1848,
30. Erp. Lam. r, fig. 2.
Liolaemus bistriatus, GRAY. Brit. Mas. 1836.
Liolaemus lemniscatus, GRAVENH. in Nov. Act. Acad. nat. cnr. XVIII, ii, 1838, 731.
PI. LIV, fig. 12.
Liolaemus (Liodeira') pictus, Fixz. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 74.
Liolaemus pictus, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mas. 1845, 213.
Eulaemus pictus, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857, 198.
OBSERV. — This species was not met with by the U. S. Exploring
Expedition, and we regret not having had an opportunity to give a
good figure of it, which would be so desirable.
LOG. — Republic of Chile.
4. EULAEMUS FITZINGERI, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head short ; snout narrow and rounded. Temporal
scales hexagonal, smooth. Auricular aperture subtubercular. Dor-
sal and lateral scales subequal, latter smooth ; abdominal scales
entire, lozenge-shaped on the chest, quadrangular on the belly.
Posterior aspect of thighs granular, with a patch of scales near the
tail. Greyish-brown or chestnut, or fawn-yellow above, with four
series of black blotches, posteriorly white-margined ; lips vertically
marked with brown ; limbs and tail with transverse angular bands,
alternately dark chestnut and white ; beneath white, the throat
exhibiting brown, confluent lines. There are other , varieties of
coloration.
SYN. — Proctotretus fitzingerii, BUM. & BIBB. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 286. — GUICH.
in Gay, Hist, de Chile, Zool. II, 1848, 38.
Ptychodeira fitzinyeri, FITZ. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 73.
Liolaemus jitzingeri, FITZ.
Liolaemus conspersus, GRAVENH. in Nov. Act. Acad. nat. cur. XVIII, ii, 1838, 735.
PI. LIV, fig. 14.
Eulaemus fitzinyeri, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857, 198.
92
366 SAURIA.
OBSERY. — We have no specimens of this species in our possession.
Loc. — Republic of Chile.
5. EDLAEMUS AFFINIS, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head short; snout broad and rounded. Cephalic plates
small and numerous. Temporal scales subhexagonal, smooth, rather
convex, and but slightly imbricated. Auricular aperture oval, granu-
lar in front. Dorsal scales rather larger than the lateral ones, which
are smooth ; abdominal scales rhomboid, smooth. Posterior aspect
of thighs granular, with a patch of scales near the tail.
SYN. — Proctotretws fitzingerii, BELL, Zool. Voy. Beagle, V, 1843, 11. PI. v, fig. 1.
Liolaemus fitzingerii, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 215.
Eulaemus affinis, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857, 198.
OBSERV. — Not amongst the reptiles collected by the \J. S. Exploring
Expedition. The study of its characters, in the published records, has
convinced us that it was distinct from the Chilian species.
Loc. — Port Desire" and Santa Cruz, Patagonia.
6. EULAEMTJS SIGNIFER, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head short, depressed ; snout narrow and rounded.
Supralabials smaller than the labials. Temporal scales moderate,
imbricated, smooth ; uppermost subcarinated. Auricular aperture
rather small, subtubercular. Dorsal scales rhomboid ; lateral scales
smooth and larger ; abdominal scales somewhat convex, generally
entire posteriorly. Posterior aspect of thighs wholly granular.
Greyish-fawn above, with four series of black, hieroglyphic spots
along the neck and body, transversely angular on the tail, and line-
ated on the limbs ; beneath white, with brown, small spots on the
belly, and raarmorated on the throat.
SYN. — Proctotretus siynifer, BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 288. — BELL, Voy.
Zool. Beagle, V, 1843, 8. PL iv, fig. 1.— GUICH. in Gay, Hist, de Chile, Zool. II,
1848,40.
EULAEMUS MACULATUS. 367
Liolaemus hieroglyph icus, GRAVENH. in Nov. Act. Acad. nat. cur. XVIII, ii, 1838,
732.
Ptycliodeira signifera, FITZ. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 73.
Liolaemus signi/er, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 214.
Eulaemus sitjn'ifer , GHD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857, 198.
OBSERV. — Authors disagree as to the number of series of supralabial
plates : the attention of future observers will have to be directed to
this point. We had no specimens of this species at our command.
The lateral scales are said to be larger than the dorsal ones : this
statement likewise requires verification.
Loc. — Eepublic of Chile.
7. EULAEMUS MACULATUS, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR.- — Head rather depressed. Auricular aperture tubercular
in front. Supraciliary plates, five on either side, polygonal. Vertex
plate rounded, with two well-developed parietals behind it. Dorsal
scales small, rhomboid, disposed nearly in longitudinal series; scales
on the flanks smaller than on the back, granular ; abdominal scales
email, smooth. Posterior aspect of thighs wholly granular. Olive,
with cross series of black-edged white spots.
STN. — Liolaemus maculatus, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 214.
Trop!duru$ maculatus, GRAY, Brit. Mus. 1836.
Eulaemus maculalus, GKD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857, 198.
OBSERV. — It is not without hesitation that we have placed the above
species, established upon immature specimens, in the genus Eulaemw,
owing to the incompleteness of the description given by its author, and
the absence of specimens from the collections we have had access to,
Future observers will have to bear this circumstance in mind.
Loc. — Republic of Peru.
368 SATJRIA.
SUBGENXTS ORTHOLAEMUS, GIRARD.
CHAR. GEN. — Scutis cephalitis minoribus, non imbricatis, laevibus; supra-
Idbialibus in tres vel plures series dispositis. Naribus superioribus.
Squamis temporalibus laevibus, non imbricatis. Apertura auditoria
modica, simplici. Colli lateribus corrugatis, gramdosis ; plicatura
praescapulari vertico-obliqua. Squamis dorsualibus parvibus, leviter
carinatis, postice obtusis; lateralibus multo minoribus et gramdosis;
abdominalibus subrhomboideis vel sublanceolatis, integris vel srdnfimbri-
atis. Femorum facie posteriori vel omnino granidosa, vel aSra illim
parva, caudam versus, squamis parvis tecta. Colore claro, nigro macu-
lato, et interdum punctate.
GEN. CHAR. — Cephalic plates rather small, not imbricated, smooth ;
three or more aeries of supralabials. Nostrils superior. Tempo-
ral scales smooth, not imbricated. Auricular aperture moderate,
simple. Sides of the neck rumpled, granular. A vertico-oblique
fold in advance of the shoulder. Dorsal scales small, slightly cari-
nated, posteriorly obtuse ; lateral scales a good deal smaller, sub-
granular ; abdominal scales subrhomboid or sublanceolated, entire
or subfimbriated. Thighs either wholly granular, or with a patch
of small scales near the tail. Dark-spotted, upon a light ground,
and occasionally speckled also.
SYN. — Ortholaemus, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857, 198.
OBSERV. — The dorsal scales present the same general aspect and
structure as in Eulaemus, but the lateral ones are much smaller,
assuming quite a granular character. The abdominal scales, on the
other hand, are subrhomboid or sublanceolated, rather acuminated,
with a proclivity of their posterior edge to being fimbriated. The
temporal scales are smooth, and not imbricated, and the supralabial
plates constitute always more than one series. The auricular aperture
is simple. The pattern of coloration is also very peculiar : there are
neither longitudinal streaks nor transverse bands; upon a uniform
rather light ground, varying in shade according to species, dark spots
are irregularly distributed; sometimes interspersed with brighter
specks.
ORTHOLAEMUS BEAGLII. 369
1. ORTHOLAEMUS BEAGLII, Grd.
(Plate XVII, figs. 15-21.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Capite breve, depresso, cuneato ; rostro obtiiso. Scutis
supralabialibus in tres series dispositis, quam superlabiales majori-
bm ; infralabialibus in tres series dispositis. Scutis mentalibus parvis,
in septem vel octo paria ordinatis. Squamis temporalibus parvibus,
subconvexibus. Apertura auditoria modica. Squamis dorsualibus
quam abdominales minoribus ; abdominalibus subrliomboideis, paulo
acuminalis, subfimbriatis. Femorum facie posteriori granulosa ; ae'ra
illius parva, caudam versus, squamis parvis tecta. Supra fusco-
olivaceo, nigro maculato. Macula atra kumeruU. Infra flavo-albes-
cente, unicolori.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head short, depressed, wedge-shaped; snout rounded.
Three series of supralabials, smaller than the upper labials. Lower
labials larger than the upper labials ; three series of infralabials.
Seven or eight pairs of small mental shields. Temporal scales
small and subconvex. Auricular aperture moderate. Dorsal scales
smaller than the abdominal ones, which are subrhomboid, rather
acuminated, and subfimbriated. Upper part of flanks subgranular.
Posterior aspect of thighs granular, with a patch of small scales near
the tail. Olive-brown above, maculated with black. A jet-black
humeral spot. Beneath whitish-yellow, unicolor.
ST.\. — Proctolretus multimaculatus, BELL, Zool. Voy. Beagle, V, 1843, 17. PI. IX,
fig. 1.— GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 217.
Ortholnemus beaglii, GED. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857, 198.
DESCR. — In its general aspect, the species here referred to is thick
and short. The body is depressed, wider than deep, and, as usual,
thicker upon its middle region. A contracted neck separates the body
from the head. The latter is plane upon the occipital region, convex
above the eyes, hence, very declivous forwards. The snout, conse-
quently, is wedge-shaped, with both jaws equal. The cleft of the
mouth is subconcave in advance of the eye ; its angle is nearly hori-
zontal, with a tendency of being depressed. The limbs are slender :
93
370
S A U R I A.
when the anterior pair is extended backwards alongside the body, the
extremity of the longest finger is far from reaching the groin ; whilst
the posterior pair, in being stretched forwards, sends the tip of its
longest toe to the axilla.
The cephalic plates are, generally speaking, quite small and smooth ;
they are somewhat more developed upon the frontal region than else-
where, and irregularly arranged. Those occupying the supraocular
region are likewise more conspicuous than the occipital ones, and
sometimes disposed upon a curve, contiguous to the vertex region.
The nostrils, which open at the posterior margin of a subelliptical
plate, the largest of the cephalic group, are situated on the upper sur-
face of the snout, within the supraciliary ridge, and much nearer to
the tip of the snout than to the anterior rim of the orbit. The supra-
ciliary ridge is composed of very small and thin plates immediately
above the eye, and larger in advance of these organs; it may be
traced to the inferior edge of the nasal plate. The rostral is rather
small, depressed, and subconvex superiorly. A series of four small
plates may be observed along the upper edge of the rostral, thus sepa-
rating entirely the latter from the nasals and frontals. There are
eight upper labials : the anterior three being the smallest; the others,
nearly equal-sized, are longer than high. The loral region is covered
with small and irregular plates, three series of which may be traced
beneath the orbit, as supralabials. There are three suborbitals : the
middle one very long, and subconvex ; the anterior and posterior ones
quite small. The margin of the eyelid is provided with a double series
of plates, those constituting the inner series being subquadrangular,
whilst in the outer series, they assume a subconical aspect. The sur-
face of the eyelid itself is granular. The plates of the infero-posterior
portion of the temporal region are somewhat larger than the antero-
superior. The syinphyseal plate is well developed, subhexagonal in
shape, narrower anteriorly than posteriorly. We observe also eight
lower labials, but they are all nearly equal-sized, being subquadrilate-
ral, a little longer than high. There is a series of seven or eight well-
developed mental shields, diminishing in size posteriorly. Three series
of small and irregular scales may be observed between the latter and
the labials. The throat is covered with subrhomboid scales, somewhat
smaller than on the abdomen. The neck is smooth beneath, and
wrinkled laterally. The wrinkles are meandriform, and, by a mis-
take, were not represented on Figure 8. The entire surface occupied
ORTHOLAEMUS BEAGLII. 371
by these wrinkles is finely granular. The auricular aperture is verti-
cally subelliptical, of moderate development, and not overlapped by
any scales ; its circumference being wholly granular.
The scales are small, subrhomboid, and slightly carinated ; they are
the smallest upon the neck, increasing somewhat along the back to
the posterior portion of the body, where they are the largest, passing
gradually to the caudal scales, which are larger still, and disposed
upon verticils. The keels here become more apparent, and the scales,
from rhomboid, assume a subtrapezoid aspect, with an oblique direc-
tion of the keels. Two granular areas may be seen pointing towards
the middle of the flanks, proceeding, one from the axilla, the other
from the groin. The middle portion of the flank is covered with
smooth scales, similar to those on the abdomen, but lanceolated in
shape, instead of being subrhomboid, as are all those extending from
the chest to the insertion of the hind limbs. On the preanal region,
the scales are smaller than on the abdomen ; they are very small,
almost granular at the periphery of the vent ; upon the inferior sur-
face of the tail, they have the same general aspect as on the upper
surface, with the exception, that they are smooth, instead of being
carinated. The upper surface of the fore-limbs is covered with cari-
nated scales, similar to those of the back, whilst on their anterior
aspect, they are more strongly carinated and lanceolated. The pos-
tero inferior aspect of the forearm is granular; that of the arm is
covered with small and smooth scales. The fingers are slender and
scaly to the base of the nails ; there are three series of scales upon
their upper aspects, two of which might be considered as lateral series,
and two beneath, not in verticils ; they are, moreover, smooth. The
inner finger is quite small ; the outer one or fifth is the next in size ;
the second comes next ; the third and fourth are much longer than
the rest, the fourth being the longest of all. The palm of the hand is
granular. The nails are slender, compressed at the base, acute upon
their extremities, and slightly curved. The upper aspect of the hind
limbs is likewise covered with scales, similar to those of the posterior
portion of the back, though somewhat larger, and more conspicuously
carinated. On the anterior aspect of the thigh, the scales are rather
large, nearly smooth, and posteriorly acute. The posterior aspect of
the same region is granular. The inferior surface of the thigh and leg
is covered with smooth and small scales, as also the posterior aspect
of the leg. The soles of the feet are granular. The toes are slender,
372
S A U R I A.
covered with scales similar to those of the fingers : the inner or first
toe is the smallest ; the second is the next in length ; the third and
fifth are nearly equal sized, whilst the fourth is the longest.
The upper regions are olive-brown, interspersed with numerous
small, black, and irregular spots, extending equally to the upper sur-
face and sides of the head, and over the limbs to the very tip of the
fingers and toes. A subcircular, jet-black spot, may be observed at the
shoulders. The inferior regions are generally unicolor, of a whitish-
yellow hue ; sometimes small, blackish spots, may be seen under the
neck and abdomen.
Loc. — Specimens of this species were collected among the sandhills,
on the coast of Patagonia, where they abound. A sketch of the color-
ation, from life, was made at that place by Mr. Drayton.
Plate XVII, fig. 15, represents OrtMaemus beaglii, in profile and
of the size of life.
Fig. 16, is an inferior view of the same animal.
Fig. 17, an upper view of the head ;
Fig. 18, a front view of the same.
Fig. 19, the left hand, from above.
Fig. 20, a group of dorsal scales ;
Fig. 21, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 17-21, are somewhat magnified.
2. ORTHOLAEMUS MULTIMACULATUS, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head short, depressed ; snout truncated and rounded.
Four series of supralabials, nearly equal to the labials. Temporal
scales large, lozenge-shaped, imbricated. Auricular aperture quite
small. Dorsal scales rhomboid ; lateral scales smaller and smooth ;
abdominal scales rhomboid and entire. Posterior aspect of thighs
wholly granular. Grey above, with numerous small and crowded
black spots ; beneath white. Nails entirely white.
SYN. — Proctotretus multimaculatus, DUM. & BIBB. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 290. —
GOICH. in Gay, Hist, de Chile, Zool. II, 1848, 42.
Liolaemus (Liodeira) muhimaculatus, Frrz. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 74.
Ortholaemus multimaculatux, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November,
1857, 198.
BRACHYLOPHUS. 373
OBSERV. — This species, which, at first sight, resembles so closely
the preceding one, is, nevertheless, easily distinguished from it, so soon
as the differences are once pointed out.
LOG. — Republic of Chile.
3. ORTHOLAEMUS FITZROII, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head rather short ; snout obtuse, subrounded. Cepha-
lic plates small and numerous. Two series of supralabials. Auri-
cular aperture moderate-sized, with minute granular scales in front.
Temporal scales small, flat, and smooth. Dorsal scales moderate ;
lateral scales smaller ; abdominal scales smooth and polished, emar-
ginated upon the sides of the throat and under aspect of the neck.
Posterior aspect of thighs granular, with a patch of scales near the
tail. Ash-grey, with dark brown marks and specks of orange and
blue. Gorge orange-colored, with faint stripes of blue.
STN. — Proctotretia wiegmannii, BELL, Zool. Voy. Beagle, V, 1843, 15. PI. VIII,
figs. 1-2.
Liolaemus wiegmannii, GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mas. 1845, 216.
Ortholaemtis fitzroii, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857, 198.
OBSERV. — This species, identified by Thos. Bell with Proctotretus
wiegmanni, of the French herpetologists, does not even belong to the
same subgeneric division. It is equally distinct from the preceding
two species, its true congeners.
LOG. — Bahia Blanca and Rio Negro, Patagonia; and Maldonado,
near the mouth of the Rio La Plata.
GENUS BRACHYLOPHUS, Cuv.
GEN. CHAR. — A slight hanging longitudinal fold under the throat. A
transverse fold across the chest to the shoulders. Cephalic plates
small, polygonal, smooth, and nearly equal. Tympanum near the
outer edge of the auricular aperture. Teeth upon the palatine bones.
94
374
S A U R I A.
Maxillary teeth compressed and tricuspid. Dorsal scales granular.
A low crest all along the back. Abdominal scales plate-like. A
series of femoral pores in the male. Tail very long and slender,
compressed at its base, and rounded upon the rest of its length.
SYN.— Brachylophus, Cuv. R£gn. Anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 41.— WAGL. Naturl. Syst.
Aroph. 1830, 151.— GRAY, Synops. Kept, in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 37.— WJEOM.
Herp. Mex. i, 1834, 16.— BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 225.— FITZ. Syst.
Kept, i, 1843, 55.— GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 187.— DUM. & A. DUM. Catal.
meth. Kept. Mus. d'hist. nat. i, 1851, 64.
OBSERV. — This is one of the most interesting genera of the Saurian
Order, composed so far of but one well-determined species, the geogra-
phic distribution of which appears to be rather wide, since it is spoken
of as occurring in the East Indies, and in some islands of New Guinea.
The Exploring Expedition met with it at Tongataboo, and at the
Feejees. These are the only specimens we ever had an opportunity
to examine. It would have given us great satisfaction had we been
enabled to compare them with specimens collected in the East Indies.
We cannot help entertaining some doubts as to the specific identity
of all of them. We notice a marked difference in the extension of the
dorsal crest along the tail, between the descriptions referred to in the
synonymy and the specimens which we have examined, and also in
the number of the femoral pores. These differences may prove of no
account, but we should like to see the investigations carried a little
further, and a thorough comparison instituted between specimens of
these remote localities.
BRACHYLOPHUS FASCIATUS, Cuv.
(Plate XVIII, figs. 8 & 9.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Color either entirely green, of a darker shade along the
back than on the belly, or else irregular bands or fasciae of a bright
green or sky-blue, may be observed upon a dull green or bluish-
brown ground.
SYN. — Iguana fasciata, BRONGN. Bull. Soc. Philom. 1800, 90. Tab. vr, fig. 1 ;
&, Ess. Class. Kept. 1805, 34. PL i, fig. 5.— LATR. Hist. nat. Kept. I, 1802, 275.
t
BRACHYLOPHUS FASCIATUS. 375
— DAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. Ill, 1805, 352.— MERE. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 48.—
GRIFF. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 39.
Brachi/lophus fasciatus, Cuv. R6gn. Anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 41. — GUER. Iconogr.
du Regn. Anim. Kept. 1833. PI. ix, fig. 1.— WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 151.—
GRAY, Synops. Kept, in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 37. — WIEGM. Herp. Mexic. i,
1834, 16.— DOM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 226.— FITZ. Syst. Kept, i, 1843, 55.—
GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 187.— BUM. & A. BUM. Catal. m6th. Kept. Mus.
d'hist. nat. i, 1851, 64.
Ctenosaurus sieberi, FiTZ.
OBSERV. — The specimens preserved are dried skins, having lost, in
a great measure, their natural shape, especially the head, neck, and
limbs. The general aspect of the animal, however, is admirably given
in the accompanying figure, made from life at the time the specimens
were collected. The soft parts of the inside of the mouth, together
with the palatine teeth, are entirely removed, the maxillary teeth
being the only organs left ; they are largest posteriorly than upon the
svinphyses of the jaws.
DESCR. — The upper surface and sides of the head are protected by
small, nearly equal, and smooth polygonal plates : the occipital being
but a trifle larger than the rest, and depressed upon its centre. Those
occupying the extremity of the snout, in the immediate neighborhood of
the rostral, as well as the phrenic region, are also somewhat larger than
upon the frontal region. As to the nostrils, they perforate one plate,
situated above the first labial. The lower labials are more conspicu-
ous than the upper ; three series of elongated plates may be observed
under the branches of the dentary, in contiguity with the labials.
Otherwise, the scales upon the inferior surface of the head are quite
small. Over the auricular aperture, and near the surface, is stretched
the tympanum, subcircular or elliptical in shape, obliquely situated
behind the angle of the mouth.
The body is compressed, deeper than broad, and tapering poste-
riorly, being nearly as thick at the shoulders as on the middle of its
length. A small crest may be observed along the dorsal line, extend-
ing from the occipital region to beyond the anterior third of the tail,
most conspicuous upon the neck and opposite the shoulders, diminishing
posteriorly, and gradually vanishing away amongst the keeled scales
of the posterior half of the tail. A fold of the skin is placed longitu-
dinally along the throat ; another along the sides of the neck, and
376
S A U B I A.
another still across the chest, in advance of the shoulders. The
scales of the dorsal and lateral regions are small, assuming somewhat
a granular aspect, especially upon the neck, where they are smaller
than on the trunk, where they are disposed upon transverse series;
they are nearly equal, mayhap, slightly increasing in size on the sides,
which they really do as they approximate the abdominal region. On
the tail and upper surface of the limbs, the scales are a good deal
larger, appear to be imbricated, and conspicuously carinated, except
upon the anterior third of the tail, where the carination is scarcely
perceptible, and where their arrangement upon annular series is yet
quite apparent. Upon the middle region of the abdomen, from the
chest to the insertion of the thighs, the scales are but slightly cari-
nated, their shape being subquadrangular, elongated, and arranged
upon transverse series ; upon the chest and gular region, they are
subrhomboid, posteriorly acute, smaller than on the abdomen, and
conspicuously carinated ; under the anterior legs, they are a good deal
smaller than on the chest, less acute posteriorly, and not quite so
strongly carinated; under the hind limbs, they resemble the former,
though larger ; and, along the leg proper, they are larger than along
the thigh, where, in the male, sixteen femoral pores may be seen, the
series from either side not being continuous upon the interfemoral
region, where a wide separation exists. Under the palm of the hands,
the scales are minute or granular ; under the sole of the feet, small,
but distinct ; in both instances, carinated. Under the fingers and toes
may be observed transverse, multicarinated plates. The second and
third fingers and toes are, moreover, provided, upon their external
margin, with a serrated, horny, scale-like expansion. The nails are
strong, compressed, curved, and acerated. Under the tail, the scales
are the largest of all, elongated, arranged upon transverse series,
strongly carinated, the carination constituting several longitudinal
ridges.
The color of some specimens is of a uniform green, of a somewhat
darker shade along the back than on the belly, where a yellowish hue
predominates. This uniform tint extends to a portion of the tail : the
remainder of that organ being annulated alternately brown and
blackish. Other specimens present a ground of a dull verdigris, with
transverse bands or fasciae of a bright green hue. One of these bands
is situated across the shoulders, wide above, and diminishing towards
the insertion of the arms, sending forwards a branch along the neck
SCELOPORUS. 377
to connect with an occipital and cephalic patch just behind the tym-
panum. A second band occupies the middle of the trunk, diminishing
also towards the abdomen. A third band is seen upon the posterior
extremity of the trunk, extending to the groins. These bands do not
extend to the inferior surface of the body. Upon the anterior third
of the tail, there are five transverse half-rings, of a bright green, vary-
ing in width, as well as the intermediate spaces. The rest of the tail
is annulated, as in the variety just described.
LOG. — Tongataboo and Feejee Islands, where they are said to be
quite common. Both varieties of coloration having been observed on
the latter islands.
While at the Feejees, Dr. Pickering remarked : "Several specimens
were brought me by the natives, and some were kept alive in my room
for several days. They seemed to be of an indolent and gentle dispo-
sition, never attempting to bite. They are said to keep about the
Banana plants."
Plate XVIII, fig. 8, represents, size of life, the banded variety, from
a specimen caught on the Feejee Islands, in May, 1840.
Fig. 9, exhibits the outline of a few teeth, somewhat magnified,
in order to show their peculiar form.
GENUS SCELOPORUS, WIEGM.
GEN. CHAR. — Head rather short and depressed, with its anterior out-
line obtuse and rounded. Cephalic plates moderate, polygonal, and
smooth ; the occipital larger than the rest. No teeth on the palate.
Tongue thick and fleshy, anteriorly emarginated, or bifid. Auricu-
lar aperture moderate, oblique, anteriorly denticulated ; tympanum
rather sunk. Temporal scales keeled. Neck underneath smooth,
provided laterally with an oblique fold. Body rather short and de-
pressed, without dorsal crest ; covered with imbricated, carinated,
and acuminated scales on the back, smooth, though often poste-
riorly emarginated on the belly. Limbs well developed; five fingers
and five toes, unequal, slender, compressed, clawed. Femoral pores
in both sexes ; no preanal pores. Tail depressed at the base, sub-
95
378
S A U K I A.
conical and tapering posteriorly, not crested, covered with subver-
ticillated and keeled scales.
Sw.—Sceloporus, WIEOM. in Ofcen, Isis, XXI, 1828, 369 ; &, Herp. Mex. I, 1834,
18 & 48.— FITZ. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 75.— GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 209.—
B. & G. in Marcy's Expl. Red Riv. of La. 1853, 236.
Tropidolepis (in part), Cuv. Regn. Anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 38.— GRAY, Synops.
Rept. in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 42 ; &, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 180 &
208.— DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 294.— HOLBR. N. Araer. Herp. II, 1842, 73.
— DUM. & A. DUM. Catal. meth. Rept. Mus. d'hist. nat. i, 1851, 76.
OBSERV. — This genus, a very natural one in its family, may be
distinguished from Proctotretus, and congeners, by the absence of pala-
tine teeth, and of preanal pores also; by the presence of femoral pores,
and a fold of the skin, obliquely situated on the sides of the neck, over-
lying a well-marked concavity.
The head is short, depressed, subtriangular in its outline, and
obtusely rounded upon the snout. The most conspicuous of the
cephalic plates are an odd occipital, a vertex plate, some frontals, and
a series of supraoculars.
The tongue is obtuse, and slightly notched anteriorly ; its surface
being covered with villous papillae. The teeth are short, and almost
uniform in size ; the anterior ones being simply conical, whilst they
are tricuspid on the sides of the jaws. The nostrils are situated near
the apex of the snout, perforating each one single plate, surrounded by
three or four small scales. The neck is slightly contracted ; the late-
ral concavity, under the fold, is lined with small, granular scales. The
anterior edge of the auricular aperture exhibits a serrated appearance,
owing to the presence thereon of a few subtriangular scales ; the tym-
pa.num is situated somewhat below the surface. The sides of the neck
are covered with small scales, similar in shape and structure to those
of the back and sides of the body. The body is rather short and
depressed. The tail is depressed at the base, and conical posteriorly.
The scales which cover the upper regions are, generally speaking, well
developed, imbricated, keeled, and acuminated. The abdominal scales
are smooth, smaller than the dorsal ones, and oftentimes notched, ace-
rated, bifid, or multifid.
The limbs are proportionally well developed, and in harmony with
the size of the body. A series from twelve to sixteen femoral
pores may be observed on each side, the posterior aspect of the thighs
being minutely scaly.
SCELOPORUS UNDULATUS. 379
The male sex is to be distinguished from the female by two rather
large, concave plates, or scutellae, situated immediately behind the
external opening of the cloaca.
1. SCELOPORUS UNDULATUS, Wiegm.
(Plate XIX, figs. 15-21.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Parietal plate smaller than the vertex plate. Two or
three unequal lorals. Temporal scales moderate, obtuse. Upper
labials exiguous ; two series of supralabials, the uppermost largest,
irregular, elongated, the inferior ones being still more exiguous
than the upper labials themselves. Lower labials somewhat larger
than the upper; infralabials smaller than the lower labials, and
disposed upon one series and a half. Preanal scales small, poste-
riorly acuminated, or emarginated. Postanal scales moderate, keeled,
acuminated. Posterior aspect of the thighs covered with blunt,
keeled, very small scales.
SYN. — Lacerta undulala, Bosc. MSS.
Stellio undulatus, LATR. Hist. nat. Kept. II, 1802, 40.
Agama undulata, BAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. Ill, 1805, 384. — HARL. Journ. Acad. Nat.
Sci. Philad. VI, 1829, 13.
I'r'imastix undulatus, MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 57.
Lacerta hyacinthina, GREEN, Journ. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. 1, 1818, 349 & 405 (male).
Lacerta fasciata, GREEN, Journ. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. 1, 1818, 349 & 406 (female).
Tropidolepis undulatus, Cuv. Eegn. Anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 38. — GRAY, Synops.
Kept, in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 43 ; &, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mas. 1845, 208.
— DCM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 298.— HOLBR. N. Amer. Herp. Ill, 1838, 51.
PI. vin ; &, 2d ed. II, 1842, 73, PI. ix.— DUM. & A. DOM. Catal. meth. Kept. Mas.
d'hist. nat. i, 1851, 76.
Sceloporus undulatus, WIEGM. in Oken, Isis, 1828, 369 ; &, Herp. Mex. I, 1834,
48. — FITZ. Syst. Kept, i, 1843, 75.
DESCR. — The head is depressed ; the snout very obtuse, and the
interocular region very slightly convex, declivous from the frontal
region to the apex of the snout. The rostral plate is subtriangular,
quite developed transversely, and rather low. The nostrils are circu-
lar, perforating a small plate, separated from the rostral by a still
smaller plate, situated immediately in advance and inwardly of the
38o s A u R i A.
supraciliary ridge. As many as ten, mayhap twelve, quite small
plates may be observed upon the intern asal region. There are eight
frontal plates, grouped around a ninth, larger one. The vertex plate
(interocular of some authors), is transversely divided posterior to the
middle of its length. Its general form is obtusely hexagonal, much
broader anteriorly than posteriorly. The occipital is the largest of
the cephalic plates; it is rounded behind, angular in front, and having,
on each side, a series of three conspicuous plates, the foremost of which
being in contact with the vertex plate. There are but six transversely
dilated supraoculars, forming a semi-crescentic series, at the concavity
of which are to be observed four or five quite small plates. A series
of five very small plates exist between the latter and the occipitals,
extending from the vertex plate towards the posterior rirn of the orbit.
Two other small supraoculars may be observed alongside the frontals.
The supraciliary ridge is conspicuously developed, and composed of
six plates, the three posterior of which being elongated and imbri-
cated. The labial plates are quadrangular or pentagonal, elongated,
very narrow, five or six on either side, on the upper as well as lower
jaws. There are two series of supralabials, somewhat smaller than
the labials, whilst one series only of infralabials is observed. The
mental shields, four in number, on either side, are of moderate deve-
lopment, diminishing gradually in size posteriorly. The symphyseal
plate is as large as the anterior mental shield.
The auricular aperture is large, ovate, and oblique, provided, upon
its anterior margin, with rather elongated scales, giving it a serrated
appearance. The temporal scales are rather broader than long, slightly
keeled, and obtuse posteriorly, the keels not stretching beyond their
margin. The fold of the neck overhangs a rather deep cavity, inte-
riorly lined with very minute scales, whilst very prominent ones may
be observed upon the outer aspect of that fold.
The neck and the body, both, are quite depressed ; the back, how-
ever, is slightly convex, whilst the belly is flat.
The tail is generally one-third or one-fourth longer than the body
and head combined, thick, broad, and depressed at the base ; it is, on
the other hand, slender and conical posteriorly, and tapering into a
point.
The fore-limbs, when bent backwards alongside the body, do not
reach the groins, whilst the hind ones, directed forwards, will extend
as far as the auricular aperture.
SCELOPORUS UNDULATUS.
The scales are comparatively well developed, larger on the back
than on the sides ; all of them, those on the neck as well as on the
body and limbs, being rhomboid ; they are imbricated, keeled, poste-
riorly acuminated by the extension of the keels. Those of the
dorsal region are entire upon their margin, and disposed upon ten or
eleven longitudinal series ; whilst on the sides, they are more or less
denticulated or serrated : their free margin being, at all events, pro-
vided with three points, a middle one, which is the largest, and one
on each side. The upper caudal scales are subquadrangular, some-
what oblong, -provided, in the direction of their length, with an
oblique keel, which terminates in a rather strong point. The infe-
rior caudal scales, which are likewise carinated and acuminated,
resemble in shape an isoceles triangle all along the conical and slender
portion of the tail ; whilst under its base and thickened portion, they
assume a rhombic form, having their margin serrated in the manner
already alluded to.
The throat is covered with rather large and rhomboid, very thin,
smooth, imbricated, and posteriorly notched scales, except over the
chin and sides of the jaws, where they are considerably smaller; on
the pectoral and abdominal regions, they are equally smooth, though
somewhat larger, and posteriorly tricuspid ; under the limbs, they are
rhomboid, keeled, provided posteriorly with two or three small needles.
The fingers and toes are covered above and sideways with small, rhom-
boid, and slightly keeled scales, whilst the lower surface is protected
with broad, quadrangular, and tricarinated plates.
There are about fourteen conspicuous femoral pores on either side,
perforating the posterior portion of a quadrangular shield.
The ground color of the upper regions, in either sex, may be of a
greenish-grey, bronze, or coppery hue, generally unicolor in the male,
and transverse, undulating, blackish bands in the female. These bands
are either continuous or interrupted upon their middle, and bordered
posteriorly with fawn, yellowish, or whitish. The upper surface of
the head exhibits three transverse black streaks : one across the fron-
tal region, another across the orbital region, and the third along the
posterior edge of the occipital plates. The upper surface of the limbs
is barred with blackish to the very tip of the fingers. A black streak
often extends from the orbit across the temporal region and auricular
aperture, along the neck to the shoulder. The axillar and inguinal
regions, and the sides of the abdomen also, are dotted with black, or
96
382
S A U R I A.
else variegated with sinuous black lines. The inferior regions are
whitish in the young, and dull yellowish in the adult, spotted or
streaked with black. On the sides of the throat, there is a bluish
spot, margined with black.
In the male, the throat is black, with a blue spot on each side, some-
times confluent, forming a collar. The chin may be entirely black or
else whitish. The neck, from the pit to the shoulder, and likewise
the anterior portion of the forearm, may be black also. The pectoral
region is whitish or yellowish, together with the middle of the abdo-
men, the sides of which are blue, the periphery of the blue patch
being margined with black. Sometimes, the sides of the abdomen and
the anterior portion of the thighs are likewise black. The inferior
surface of the limbs exhibits the same hue as the middle of the abdo-
men : whitish or yellowish, with a shade of blackish.
LOG. — This species inhabits the country lying between the Missis-
sippi Valley and the Atlantic Ocean, New Jersey, and the Gulf of
Mexico. Though not amongst those collected by the U. S. Exploring
Expedition, a description and figures of the same were imperatively
demanded, since some specimens, brought home from the western
coast of America, belong to a species so closely related to it, that it
would have proved an ungrateful task to attempt describing the one
without the other.
Plate XIX, fig. 15, represents, in profile, the male sex of Sceloporus
undulatus, size of life.
Fig. 16, is an under view of the same individual.
Fig. 17, the head, viewed from above ;
Fig. 18, a front view of the head.
Fig. 19, the left hand, seen from above.
Fig. 20, exhibits a group of dorsal scales ;
Fig. 21, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 17-21, are somewhat magnified, in order to show, more dis-
tinctly, the structures they are intended to represent.
SCELOPORUS OCCIDENTALIS. 383
2. SCELOPORUS OCCIDENTALIS, B. & G.
(Plate XIX, figs. 8-14.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Scutis cephaUcis rujosis ; scuto anteparietali scuto verticis
fere aequali ; loreuli uno vel duobus, subaequalibus. Squamis tempo-
ralibus minimis, carinatis, acuminatis ; praeanalibus modicis, postioe
rotundis, subemarginatis ; postanalibus minimis, laevibus, subtrunca-
tis, subemarginatis. femorum facie posteriori squamis minutissimis,
lanceolatis, et carinatis, cooperta. Corpore supra fusco, cum dorsuali
et laterali serie macularum n'ujrarum et postice albo marginatarum,
quae series vittd clard, interdum interruptd, separantur.
SPEC. CHAR. — Cephalic plates rugose ; anterior parietal nearly equal
to the vertex plate. One or two unequal lorals. Temporal scales
small, keeled, and acuminated. Preanal scales moderate, poste-
riorly rounded, subemarginated ; postanals small, smooth, subtrun-
cated, subemarginated. Posterior aspect of thighs covered with
minute, lanceolated, and keeled scales. Coloration : various shades
of brown above, with a dorsal and a lateral series of black, poste-
riorly white-edged spots, separated by a light, sometimes interrupted,
streak.
STN.— Sceloporus occidental is, B. & G. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852,
175.
DESCR. — The general form and proportions of the body and limbs
are pretty much the same as in S. undulatus. The head, however, is
more depressed. Differences in the cephalic plates are made apparent
by figs. 10 & 17, of Plate xix. Without dwelling too much upon
the vertex and occipital plates, which we have found varying within
certain proportions, we will allude more particularly to the supraocu-
lars, which are not subjected to any variations, as far, at least, as our
observations of the latter extend. We notice two subcrescentic series
of them, the outermost being composed of very small and narrow plates,
longer than broad, whilst the other series consists of six transversely
dilated and quite large plates, hence, broader than long. Between
the latter and the supraciliary ridge, there are two more parallel
series of small plates. The mental shields constitute a longer series
S A U R I A.
than in S. undulatus, though, in their general form and disposition,
they are alike.
The most prominent difference, however, between the present
species and S. undulatus, consists in the scales, both dorsal and abdo-
minal, and which are a good deal larger, as exhibited by figs. 13 & 20.
The dorsal ones are more conspicuously keeled, giving to the animal
a much rougher appearance, whilst on the abdomen, they are not
quite so deeply notched or pointed, making them to appear smoother.
The scales under the hind limbs are but very slightly keeled, if at
all, except on the sole of the feet, which again appear very rough.
The two large postanal shields, that may be seen on fig. 9, and which
are a characteristic of the male sex, when compared to those in figs.
2 & 16, of the same plate, will show corresponding differences.
The coloration we will not attempt to describe from the specimens
preserved in alcohol. Judging of it by the faint traces that may still
be observed, it must have been very similar in its pattern to that of
S. undulatus. The blue abdominal patches are wider apart.
LOG. — California and Oregon, west of the Rocky Mountains.
Plate XIX, fig. 8, represents the profile of the male sex of Scelopo-
rus occidentalis, size of life.
Fig. 9, is an under view of the same individual.
Fig. 10, the head, viewed from above ;
Fig. 11, a front view of the head.
Fig. 12, the right hand, seen from above.
Fig. 13, a group of dorsal scales ;
Fig. 14, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 10-14, being somewhat magnified, for the purpose of repre-
senting more distinctly all these parts.
3. SCELOPORDS FRONT ALIS, B. & G.
(Plate XIX, figs. 1-7.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Scuto verticis quam anteparietalem majori ; scutis post-
parietalibus in duo, paria ordinatis, quam anteparietalem tninoribus,
pare anteriori majori. Latero-occipitalium pare uno. Scuto occipitali
SCELOPORUS FRONTALIS. 385
mediano, modico, subheptagonali ; loreo uno. Scutis supralabiaUbus
et infralabialibus in unam et dimidiam seriei partem ordinatis. Scutis
mentalibus in quinque paria dispositis. Sqnamis postanalibus modicis,
rotundis, leviter carinatis. Femorum facie posteriori squamis parvis,
acutis, et carinatis, cooperta. Supra cinereo-caerulescente ; abdominis
lateribus nigro-caerulescentibus ; regione mediana flavescente vel albes-
cente.
SPEC. CHAR. — Vertex plate larger than the anterior parietal ; two
pairs of postparietals, smaller than the anterior parietal : foremost
pair largest of the two. One pair of latero-occipitals. Middle occi-
pital moderate, obtusely heptagonal. One loral plate. One, and a
part of another, series of supralabials; one and a half series of infra-
labials. Mental shields in five pairs. Postanal scales moderate,
rounded, slightly keeled. Posterior aspect of thighs covered with
small, acute, and keeled scales. Bluish-grey above ; abdomen
bluish-black on the sides, yellowish or whitish upon its middle
region.
STN. — Sceloporus frontalis, B. & G. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 175.
DESCR. — The most prominent specific character which distinguishes
this species from the preceding ones, consists in the convexity of the
frontal region, and, as a consequence, in the bluntness of the snout.
The cephalic plates, in their shape and disposition, partake of both
S. undulatus and S. occidentalis : the vertex plate resembles that of
the former, and the supraoculars those of the latter. Again, the
mental shields recall to mind the same parts in S. undulatus. The
scales are smaller than in S. occidentalis, and the dorsal ones are not
so quadrangular than in either of the species just alluded to, though
provided with conspicuous keels. The abdominal scales are slightly
notched upon their posterior margin, instead of being tricuspid, as in
S. undulatus. The scales under the hind limbs are smooth, as in S.
occidentalis: those on the sole of the feet being likewise keeled.
The color is but imperfectly preserved : the upper regions exhibit
a bluish-grey or slate hue ; the sides of the abdomen are bluish-black,
whilst its middle region is yellowish or whitish, as well as the inferior
surface of the limbs. The throat is bluish-black.
97
ggg S A U R I A.
LOG. — This species was collected about Puget Sound, Oregon.
Plate XIX, fig. 1, represents a profile view of the male sex of Scelo
porus frontalls, size of life.
Fig. 2, is an under view of the same individual.
Fig. 3, the head, seen from above ;
Fig. 4, a front view of the head.
Fig. 5, the left hand, viewed from above.
Fig. 6, a group of dorsal scales ;
Fig. 7, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 3-7, are somewhat magnified, to bring out the details more
conspicuously.
4. SCELOPORUS GRACILIS, B. & G.
(Plate XX, figs. 1-9.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Scuds ceplialicis laevibus. Scuto anteparietali quam ver-
ticis majori; scutis postparietalibus in dua paria ordinatis. Scuto
'occipitali mediano amplissimo, pentagonali. Scutis latero-occipitalibus
minimis, in dua paria dispositis; loreis duobus ; supralabialibus
in duplicem seriem ordinatis; mentaUum quatuor paribus. Squamis
postanalibus magnis, sublanceolatis, laevibus, postice emarginatix.
Femorum facie posteriori squamis minimis, rotundis, et laevibus,
cooperta. Supra fusco-olivaceo, cum duabus seriebus macularum
nigrarum crescentiformibus, et duabus vittis claris in lateribus, inter
quas punctorum nigrorum series invenitur. Infra flavescente ; facie
inferiori capitis caeruleo nebulata. Mare macula caerulea elongata
in utroque abdominis latere notato.
SPEC. CHAR. — Cephalic plates smooth. Anterior parietal larger than
the vertex plate ; two pairs of postparietals. Middle occipital very
large, pentagonal. Two pairs of small latero-occipitals. Two lorals.
Two series of supralabials. Four pairs of mental shields. Postanal
scales large, sublanceolated, smooth, posteriorly notched. Posterior
aspect of thighs covered with small, rounded, and smooth scales. Oli-
vaceous-brown above, with a double series of crescent-shaped black
spots on the back, and two lateral light streaks, in the intervening
SCELOPORUS GRACILIS. 387
space of which is a series of black spots. Beneath yellowish; under
surface of head clouded with bluish. Male provided with an elon-
gated blue patch on each side of the abdomen.
SYN. — Sceloporus gracilis, B. & G. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 175.
DESCR. — We have before us a slender and quite graceful species,
the snout of which being proportionally more elongated than in any
of the species above referred to. The occipital plate is almost subtri-
angular, being acute anteriorly, and rounded off posteriorly. The
vertex plate, transversely subdivided through the middle of its length,
is quite narrow posteriorly. The postfrontals are contiguous upon a
greater surface than in the other species here described : hence, the
vertex plate is more isolated from the middle frontal. The supra~
oculars are similar, in shape and development, to those of 8. occiden-
tal is and S. frontalis, with this difference, however, that the external
subcrescentic series is composed of plates a good deal larger. The
internal parallel series are larger also in the same proportions.
The dorsal scales are rhomboid, slightly keeled, and their posterior
margin is entire, instead of being indentated laterally; they constitute
longitudinal and parallel series. The caudal scales are much larger
than the dorsal ones. On the flanks, the scales are disposed upon ver-
tical series, the carination becoming very obsolete, and disappearing
entirely along the lower portion ; on the throat, they are notched
upon their posterior margin, whilst on the abdomen, they are almost
altogether entire, a few notched ones being scattered over the sides.
The scales on the upper surface of the limbs are obsoletely keeled,
and smooth on the lower surface, except on the sole of the feet, where
they are conspicuously keeled ; on the posterior aspect of the thighs,
they are small, rounded, and smooth; on the tail, the scales are more
strongly carinated than elsewhere.
The ground color above is of an olivaceous brown, and yellowish or
dull whitish beneath. There are two lateral, narrow, and yellow
streaks on each side : one extending from the orbit to the origin of
the tail ; the other, from the auricular aperture to the groin. The
dorsal region exhibits a double series of black subcrescentic spots, con-
vex backwards, extending from the occiput to the narrow and conical
portion of the tail. The intervening zone, between the lateral streaks,
exhibits also a series of black subcrescentic spots. The upper surface
S A U R I A.
of the limbs is barred with black. The abdomen is yellowish or dull
whitish, unicolor in the female, whilst in the male, the sides exhibit
au elongated blue patch, slightly margined with blackish, and leaving
quite a wide area uncovered upon the middle region. The inferior
surface of the head and the chest are mottled with bluish in both
sexes, more conspicuously, however, in the male than in the female.
LOG. — Specimens of this species were collected in Oregon.
Plate XX, fig. 1, represents the male sex of Sceloporus gracilis, size
of life.
Fig. 2, is an under view of the same individual.
Fig. 3, a profile view of the head ;
Fig. 4, the head, seen from above ;
Fig. 5, a front view of the head.
Fig. 6, the left hand, seen, from above.
Fig. 7, the interfemoral and cloacal regions, with the posterior left
limb, from beneath.
Fig. 8, a group of dorsal scales ;
Fig. 9, a group of abdominal scales.
Figs. 3-9, are somewhat magnified, to render the details of their
structure more apparent.
GENUS PHRYNOSOMA, WIEQM.
GEN. CHAK. — Vertex region of the head elevated, with an even or
depressed surface; temporal and occipital regions spinous. Cephalic
plates small, polygonal, and subequal ; occipital plate subcircular.
Maxillary teeth small and subconical. Palate toothless. Tongue
subelliptical, depressed, thick, papillous, and fleshy posteriorly, thin
and leathery anteriorly. Sides of the neck rumpled ; throat trans-
versely wrinkled. Auricular apertures simple, granular, or denticu-
lated in front ; occasionally entirely hidden under the skin. Body
rather short, or moderately elongated, very much depressed, broad,
subovate or subelliptical, generally provided, on either side, with
one, two, or three series of subpyramidal scales at the periphery of
the abdomen. Its upper surface is scattered all over with subtri-
angular, scaly, sometimes erect tubercles, in the midst of small,
PfiRYNOSOMA. 389
irregular, and imbricated scales. Neither dorsal nor caudal crests.
Abdomen protected by subrhombic scales, either smooth or keeled.
Limbs rather short. Tail about the length of the body or shorter,
depressed and broad at the base, subconical and tapering posteriorly.
Femoral pores present ; preanal pores wanting.
SYN.— Phrynosoma, WiEGM. in Oken, Isis, XXI, 1828, 367; &, Herp. Mex. 1, 1834,
18 & 52.— WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 145.— GEAT, Synops. Rept. in Griff.
Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 44 ; &, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 227.— DOM. & BIBR.
Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 311.— HOLBR. N. Amer. Herp. II, 1842, 85.— FITZ. Syst. Rept.
I, 1843,78. — DOM. & A. DOM. Catal. meth. Rept. Mus. d'hist. nat. i, 1851, 78.— GKD.
in Stansb. Expl. Vail. Gr. Salt Lake, Utah, 1852, 354.— HALLOW, in Sityr. Rep.
Exped. Zuni and Color. Rivers, 1853, 119.
OBSERV. — There is no group in the Saurian order that may so
readily be distinguished as that of Phrynosoma. A body more or
less circular in shape, always depressed, sometimes flattened, scattered
all over with irregular and spine-like shields, in the midst of small and
irregular scales ; a solid and subtriangular head, provided with acute
spines or tuberculous knobs ; a short and conical tail, covered with
scales similar to those of the body, sometimes even more prominent,
are as many conspicuous features, which must strike any one at the
very first glance. The general aspect of these reptiles, mayhap their
sluggishness, will recall to rnind a frog or a toad : hence, the vernacu-
lar appellation of horned toads or horned frogs. The naturalist, how-
ever, with no hesitation, recognizes in them true Saurians, inasmuch
as the body, instead of being smooth, like that of either toads or frogs,
is covered, as just stated, with scales of a peculiar type. Besides the
spines of the head, the tail, although short, is another feature by which
they differ from both toads and frogs. So much when these animals
are at rest : so soon as they move, the observer cannot fail to be struck
with the fact that Phrynosoms never jump or leap, as is the case with
the Batrachians, to which they have been compared.
If we look now more closely at the zoological peculiarities of the
group of Phrynosoma, we will observe that the vertex is a prominent
region of the head, subtriangular or cordiform, with a sharp and pro-
jecting margin, forming a ridge, overlapping the orbits; sometimes,
it is provided posteriorly with two spines, one at each angle. The
occipital region generally exhibits the largest spines in those species
in which they exist as a conspicuous feature. The temporal region
98
390
S A U R I A.
is very much developed, and projects over the auricular aperture,
being, moreover, provided, upon its projecting margin, with spines or
conical plates, the largest of which approximating the occiput. The
eyes seem as if situated in the middle of a groove, extending from the
snout to the occiput, on account of the projection of the supraciliary
ridge and the mastoid region. The lower jaw is generally bordered
with a row or two of large plates, which vary in structure and shape,
according to the species. The snout is either truncated or acute. The
nostrils are conspicuous, and situated near the extremity of the snout,
either within the inner margin of the supraciliary ridge, else upon its
direct prolongation. The upper surface and sides of the head, not
occupied by the spines or tuberculous knobs, are covered with small
polygonal plates, varying in size, according to the area over which
they extend ; they are exceedingly small in advance and behind the
orbits. The surface of these plates is rugose, wrinkled, or keeled, as
likewise the surface of the spines themselves. The surface of the eye-
lids is covered with minute scales of a granular appearance; the mar-
gin of the eyelid itself is ornamented with a double row of subquad-
rangular plates, somewhat larger than the granules just alluded to.
The inferior surface of the head, from the chin to the chest, is covered
with small scales, characteristic in each species. The neck is generally
very short, appearing as if contracted, the result of which contraction
would be the presence of several folds of the skin, concealing the auri-
cular apertures, placed close to the projection of the temples.
The scales of the upper surface of the body are very irregular in
size and shape ; on the neck, above and below, at the axillae, along
the sides of the back, and at the groins, they assume a granular
appearance, while along the middle of the back, and on the tail, they
appear like thin lamellae, still very irregular, and carinated or sub-
carinated. All over the back, sides, tail, and hind limbs, there are
large, irregularly pyramidal scales, with an acute point, and a
wrinkled or ridged surface. The periphery of the abdomen exhibits
one, two, or three horizontal series of these pyramidal scales, bent
backwards, extending from the fore limbs to the hind ones. The species
in which the scales of the back are the largest, is P. coronatum, while
that in which the scales are the least developed, is P. modestum, whose
external appearance is, in a great measure, destitute of that rough-
ness which is generally associated with the idea of these reptiles.
The abdominal scales are subquadrangular or rhomboid, either
PHRYNOSOMA. 391
smooth or keeled, according to the species. On the breast and ante-
rior portion of the shoulders, several rows of the largest scales are
seen, very prominent, very acute posteriorly, and strongly carinated
or keeled. The anterior and upper aspects of the thighs are likewise
provided with large scales, though much less conspicuously keeled
than at the shoulders.
The tail is always depressed at its base : it diminishes very rapidly
posterior to the vent, becoming cylindrical toward its tip. The pyra-
midal and raised scales are sometimes more conspicuous upon its sides
and upper surface, than on the surface of the body itself. The scales
beneath, in the vicinity of the vent, have the general appearance of
those of the belly ; in the postanal groove, some larger scales may
occasionally be seen : here, the scales assume a subverticillated arrange-
ment; upon the conical portion of this organ, they are carinated, while
they are generally smooth about the vent.
The fore and hind limbs are nearly equal-sized ; the latter, however,
being somewhat stouter. The fingers and toes, five in number, are
moderate : the first and fifth are the shortest, and either of equal
length or the fifth may be a little longer; the second and fourth some-
what longer than the first and fifth, and likewise either of equal length
or the fourth somewhat longer than the second ; the third is always
the longest. The scales extend all over the toes, overlapping even
the base of the nails : they assume a subtriangular shape, very much
acuminated posteriorly, and very distinctly keeled. The nails them-
selves are curved, compressed at the base, and very acute at the tip.
On the inferior surface of the hind limbs, along the thigh, a series of
pores is observed, the femoral pores, varying in number and conspicu-
ousness according to the species. The anal pores are totally absent
in this group.
There is a structural peculiarity in some species worthy of a special
remark: we allude to the auricular apertures, which, in some instances,
are entirely hidden under the skin. When this fact was first noticed,
upon a specimen from the Colorado Desert, it was made the ground
for the establishment of a new genus, under the name of Anota. The
same structure we find now, more or less transitory in Phrynosoma
mod&stum, described on a former occasion, though, at the time we
published its description, it was not apparent upon the specimens we
had examined. Subsequent collections, containing numerous indivi-
duals, threw all desirable light on this subject, by exhibiting every
392 SAURIA.
stage between a completely hidden auricular aperture and a perfectly
visible one, sometimes on the right, at others on the left side, and
also on both sides, on the same specimen. Moreover, P. platyrhinum,
which has permanent auricular apertures, is congeneric with P. modes-
turn and Anota mccalli, as shown further on.
The genus Phrynosoma is, truly speaking, an American type of
Saurians. The geographic distribution of its species reads, thus far,
as follows :
1. PHRYNOSOMA ORBICULARE, — in the Valley of Mexico.
2. PHRYNOSOMA HERNANDESI, — in Western New Mexico and Sonora.
3. PHRYNOSOMA ORNATISSIMUM, — in the eastern mountainous regions of New Mexico.
4. PHRYNOSOMA BREVIROSTRUM, — in the plains of Kansas and Nebraska.
5. PHRYNOSOMA DOUGLASSI, — in the mountainous range from Puget Sound to the
Colorado Desert, embracing the Valley of the Great Salt Lake of Utah.
6. PHRYNOSOMA CORONATUM, — in Upper California; west of the Rocky Mountains.
7. PHRYNOSOMA CORNDTUM, — in Texas, from the Gulf of Mexico to the mountains of
New Mexico.
8. PHRYNOSOMA REGALE, — in the Valleys of the Zuni and Colorado Rivers.
9. PHRYNOSOMA MO' CALM, — in the Colorado Desert.
10. PHRYNOSOMA PLATYRHINUM, — in the Valley of the Great Salt Lake of Utah.
11. PHRYNOSOMA MODESTUM, — in the Valley of the Rio Grande del Norte (Rio
Bravo).
Thus, making eleven species with which we are thoroughly ac-
quainted. Those which have been mentioned or described under
the names of Phrynosoma bufonium, P. harlani, P. wiegmanni, P.
UainviUei, P. Solaris, and P. planiceps, are mere synonyms, which will
be found under their proper headings.
There are various characters according to which the above species
may be subdivided into minor groups. If the position of the nostrils
PHRYNOSOMA. 393
is taken into consideration, we will have, on the one hand, those in
which these apertures are situated within the extension of the supra-
ciliary ridge : P. cornutum, regale, mccalli, platyrhinum, and modes-
turn ; and, on the other hand, P. orbiculare, hernandesi, douglassi, orna-
ti^unum, bred rostrum, and coronatum, in which these same apertures
are situated upon the extension of the supraciliary ridge : hence, more
lateral than in the former group. At one time, the pyramidal scales
at the periphery of the abdomen were thought of some value in that
respect, being either disposed upon one or a double series : there is
a double row of them in P. cornutum and coronatum, and one series
only in P. orbiculare, douglassi, hernandesi, ornatissimum, brevirostrum,
regale, and platyrhinum; P. mccalli exhibits a triple series of them,
and in P. modestum, they are entirely absent. The profile of the
head, whether the snout is protruding or abbreviated, would bring
into one group P. orbiculare, hernandesi, ornatissimum, coronatum, cor-
nutum, and regale, and into another, P. brevirostrum, mccalli, platy-
rhinum, and modestum. P. douglassi, as it now stands, would enter both
groups; still, as it is probable, that there are yet two species combined
under that name, one may exhibit an abbreviated snout, and a protrud-
ing one in the other. If the abdominal scales are taken into consi-
deration, we will have on one hand P. cornutum, regale, mccalli, and
modestum, although, in the two latter, they are but slightly keeled,
and, on the other hand, P. orbiculare, hernandesi, douglassi, ornatissi-
mum, brevirostrum, coronatum, and plalyrhinum, where they are smooth.
In neither case would we have a natural subdivision. The various
folds of the neck and shoulder, as well as the auricular apertures, are
of no better avail in this respect. Indeed, minor subdivisions of the
genus Phrynosoma have hitherto appeared to us as a breach into the
natural affinities of its species, and, at the time we offered "A Mono-
graphic Essay" of the latter, we held it as an idle attempt.*
After a laborious study of one of the most extensive collections of
these Saurians, now in the Museum of the Smithsonian Institution,
we offer the following Prodrom, as embodying our present thoughts
upon the subject.
* In Stansbury's Exploration of the Valley of the Great Salt Lake of Utah, 1852,
354.
99
WI7BESITT
A TJ B I A.
SUBGENUS TAPAYA, Cuv.
GEN. CHAR.— Head moderate or large ; vertex more or less inclined
forwards ; snout obtuse or somewhat protruding. Nostrils lateral,
situated at the extremity of the supraciliary ridge. Cephalic plates
small or moderate, rugose ; spines short and subconical, sometimes
very much attenuated. Lower labials posteriorly large and acumi-
nated. Submaxillar shields small and ridged. Mental scales
small and equal. Auricular apertures extant, simple or denticu-
lated in front. Sides of the neck and throat rumpled. One series
of subpyramidal scales at the periphery of the abdomen. Abdomi-
nal scales smooth. Coloration : greyish or brownish above, maculated
with black; beneath whitish or yellowish, unicolor, or spotted with
black.
.— Tapayes, Cuv. Regn. Anim. II, 1817, 35; 2d ed. II, 1829, 37; &, ed. illnstr.
Kept. 53.
Tapayea (Cuv.), GRAY, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 227.
OBSERV. — The large and depressed head, provided with moderate
or diminutive spines, the large posterior lower labials, and the rather
small and uniform gular scales, constitute the most prominent features
of this genus. We observe also constantly one series of well-developed
pyramidal scales at the periphery of the depressed body ; and, the
scales which cover the abdominal region are always smooth.
1. TAPAYA ORBICULARIS, Cuv.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head rather small, anteriorly declivous ; vertex rather
narrow ; tips of the jaws protruding. Cephalic plates moderate.
Occipital and temporal spines stout, though moderately elongated.
Submaxillar shields small, ridged, largest posteriorly. Auricular
apertures minutely serrated anteriorly. Mental scales small and
subequal. A conspicuous gular fold, covered with minute scales.
Abdominal scales large, subrhomboid, acuminated. Femoral pores
distant; series from either side not continuous across the interfemo-
ral region. Dark reddish-brown above, with a double or quadruple
TAPAYA HERNANDESI. 395
series of black spots or blotches, posteriorly light-margined. Beneath
yellowish, maculated with jet-black.
SYN.— Tapaya orbicularis, Cov. Regn. Anim. II, 1817, 35; 2d ed. II, 1829, 37; &,
ed. illustr. Kept. 53.
P/iri/nosoma orbiculare, WiEGM. in Oken, Isis, XXI, 1828, 367 ; &, Herp. Mex.
I, 1834, 53. Tab. vm, fig. 1.— WAUL. Descr. & Icon. Amph. 1828. Tab. xxui, figs.
1 & 2 ; &, Naturl. Sjst. Amph. 1830, 146.— SCHINZ, Naturg. u. Abbild. Kept. 1833,
88. Tab. xxvii. fig. 2.— DOM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 321.— GRAY, Synops.
Kept, in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 45; &, Catal. Lizz. Brit. Mas. 1845, 228.—
GRD. in Stand. Expl. Vail. Gr. Salt Lake, Utah, 1852, 359.
Aijama orbicularis, DA'UD. Hist. nat. Rspt. Ill, 1805, 406. — VOIGT, Uebers. Thierr.
Cuv. II, 1831, 54.
Phri/nosoma orlirularis, GRAVENH. in Nov. Act. Acad. nat. cur. XVI, n, 1834, 911.
Tab. LXIII.
Phrynosoma wiegmanni, GRAY, in Beechey, Voy. to the Pacif. Zool. 1839, 96.
Tup'iyaxin, Lacertus orbicularis, HERNAND. Nov. Plant. Anim. Min. Mex. Hist.
1648, 67.
The Tapayaxin of Mexico, GRIFF. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 124.
OBSERV. — Characterized by its small head and cephalic spines,
which are larger than in any other species of the same genus.
Loc. — Valley of Mexico.
2. TAPAYA HERNANDESI, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head rather large, depressed ; vertex broad, slightly
inclined anteriorly; snout protruding. Cephalic plates small.
Occipital and temporal spines small and conical. Submaxillar
shields moderate. Auricular apertures simple, granular. Mental
scales very small : the series adjoining the submaxillar shields
larger than the rest. Several folds under the throat, minutely
granular. Abdominal scales small and subrhomboid, acuminated.
Femoral pores small, not continuous across the interfemoral region.
Blackish-brown above, with a double or quadruple series of black,
light-margined spots. Beneath yellowish, unicolor, else obscurely
maculated.
OBSERV. — Allied to the preceding species, from which it chiefly
396
S AURIA.
differs by its larger head, less-developed cephalic spines, and its
smaller abdominal scales.
LOG. — New Mexico.
3. TAPAYA ORNATISSIMA, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head large, broad, and depressed ; vertex slightly
sloping forwards ; snout subacute. Cephalic plates small. Occi-
pital and temporal spines very short, subconical, and acerated.
Submaxillar shields rather small, ridged. Labial plates small,
except the four posterior lower ones, which are more developed,
flattened, acute, and projecting. Two pyramidal spines at the
angle of the mouth. Anterior margin of the auricular aperture
provided with a series of granules, larger than the surrounding
ones. Mental scales very small and uniform; prescapular and gular
folds minutely granular. Sides of the neck spinous. Abdominal
scales small, subrhomboid, posteriorly obtuse. Femoral pores
small : the series from either side widely separated upon the inter-
femoral region. Tail rather short, broad, and depressed at the
base, subconical, and attenuated posteriorly. Reddish-brown above,
with a double series of chestnut-yellowish, orange-margined blotches
over the body and tail, and specks of the same bright hue inter-
spersed between the darker spots and towards the sides. Beneath
yellowish, unicolor, else the abdomen and chin are maculated with
greyish-black.
SYN. —Phrynosoma orbiculare, HALLOW, in Sityr. Rep. Expl. Zuni & Color. Rivers,
1853, 125. PL viir & ix.
OBSERV. — The double row of dorsal spots, instead of being arranged
in pairs, as is usually the case in other species, and especially in T.
douglassi, have a proclivity to alternate, sometimes to a very marked
degree.
LOG. — Mountainous region of New Mexico.
TAPAYA DOUGLASS I. 397
4. TAPAYA BREVIROSTRIS, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head large, depressed; vertex slightly sloping forwards ;
snout abbreviated and rounded. Cephalic plates moderate. Occipi-
tal and temporal spines very short and subconical. Submaxillar
shields moderate and ridged. Labial plates moderate ; five poste-
rior lower ones largest, flattened, and projecting; the fifth being
pyramidal, and near the angle of the mouth. Anterior margin of
the auricular aperture serrated or denticulated. Mental scales
small and uniform ; gular folds subgranular ; prescapular fold
minutely granular. Sides of the neck spinous. Abdominal scales
moderate, subrhomboid, posteriorly obtuse. Femoral pores small,
distant : the series from either side widely apart upon the inter-
femoral region. Tail of moderate length, broad and depressed at
the base, subconical and tapering posteriorly. Olivaceous-brown
above, with a quadruple series of black, posteriorly yellow edged,
spots ; beneath yellowish, unicolor, except the chin, which exhibits,
sometimes, small blackish spots.
OBSERV. — This species resembles more T. douglassi than any other
of its congeners. Its abbreviated head, and, in fact, its entire physiog-
nomy, is suggestive of DoHosaurus platyrliinos, alluded to further
on, to which, however, it bears no close affinities.
Loc. — Plains of Kansas and Nebraska.
5. TAPAYA DOUGLASSI, Grd.
(Plate XXI, figa. 1-5.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Head large, depressed ; vertex slightly declivous ;
snout subconvex or rounded, subdepressed at the nostrils. Cephalic
plates moderate, very rugose. Occipital and temporal spines reduced
to small acerated cones. Subraaxillar shields moderate and ridged.
Auricular aperture granular, subtubercular. or subdenticulated in
front. Labial plates moderate. Mental scales small and subequal ;
gular folds minutely scaly. Abdominal scales moderate, subrhom-
boid, posteriorly obtuse. Femoral pores distant : the series from
100
398 SAURIA.
either side approximating upon the interfemoral region without
being continuous. Olivaceous-grey or brown above, with a double
or quadruple series of black spots, posteriorly margined with white
or yellow ; beneath whitish or yellowish-white, generally unicolor,
occasionally speckled with jet-black.
SYN.— Agama douglatdi, BELL, in Trans. Linn. Soc. Lond. XVI (1828), 1833, 105.
PI. x.— HARL. Med. & Phys. Research. 1835, 141. Fig. 3.
Phrynosoma douylassii, WAOL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 146.— GRAY, Synops.
Kept, in Grif. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 44 ; Catal. Liz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 227 ; &,
in Beech. Voy. to the Pacif. Zopl. 1839, 96. — WIEOM. Herp. Mex. I, 1834, 54.—
DCM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 323.— HOLBR. N. Amer. Herp. II, 1842, 101.
PI. xiv.— FITZ. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 78.— GRD. in Stansb. Expl. Vail. Gr. Salt Lake,
Utah, 1852, 361 & 362. PI. vn, figs. 6-10.
Phrynosoma ornatum, GRD. MSS. (accompanying Atlas.)
OBSERV. — As already observed (page 393), two species may yet be
confounded under this heading, one peculiar to the Northwest Coast,
the other to the Great Salt Lake Basin. The specimen figured be-
longs to the latter region ; and at the time the accompanying plate
was engraved, we thought we had found tangible characters to dis-
criminate them. All the specimens from the Northwest Coast are
much smaller than those of the more southern region of Utah; but,
since this fact might still be regarded by some as bearing upon the
climate, we have, so far, refrained recording them as distinct species.
DESCR. — The head itself is quite depressed, and the vertex but
slightly sloping towards a rather rounded snout. The temporal regions
are yet prominent, though the spiny processes contribute very little
towards their expansion. All the cephalic spines are sometimes so
much reduced in their development as to appear like mere knobs.
The upper labials are narrow and elongated, not larger, however, than
the supralabials, though much smaller than the temporal plates. The
cephalic plates are small and polygonal; their surface exhibiting a fine
meandric meshwork in relief. The scales under the head are very
small, subequal, and smooth. The submaxillar plates are moderate, ex-
teriorly ridged, thirteen in number, increasing in size posteriorly to the
tenth, whilst the three remaining ones are slightly smaller, ascending,
towards the angle of the mouth, to meet the lower labials. The latter
are quite narrow and small anteriorly, increasing in size posteriorly,
where the four last are nearly as large as the largest submaxillars.
TAPAYA DOUGLASS I. 399
The dorsal scales have a comparatively smooth appearance, being
but slightly keeled. The large scales, which are interspersed in the
midst of the small ones, are generally less numerous than in the other
species of the genus. There is but one well-developed series of pyra-
midal scales at the periphery of the abdomen. One series of them
may be observed on the sides of the tail, and scattered ones over its
upper surface. The abdominal scales are smooth, and rather more
developed upon the middle region than towards the sides; also more
so anteriorly than posteriorly. The scales covering the upper and
anterior aspects of the limbs are but slightly keeled, whilst they are
smooth beneath and behind. The femoral pores number from four-
teen to eighteen on either side, and, as usual, more conspicuous in the
male than in the female, closely approximating upon the interfemoral
region, over which they extend, without forming a continuous series.
The ground color above is greyish-olive or brown. A large, elon-
gated, black patch is observed on either side of the neck. A double
or quadruple series of black spots, sometimes united into transverse
bands, exist on the upper region of the body ; five more of such bands
may be seen on the caudal region. Their posterior margin, or else the
entire intervening space, is of a yellow or of an orange hue. The upper
surface of the limbs is barred, spotted, or clouded with blackish.
Beneath, the ground color is either yellowish (in the female), or
whitish (in the male), unicolor, else more or less thickly dotted with
black. The dots are oftentimes so crowded under the head, as to
give that region quite a dark appearance.
Loc. — Mountainous regions of Oregon. Less common west of the
Rocky Mountains than eastwardly.
Plate XXI, fig. 1, represents a side view of the female sex of Tapa-
ya douglassi, size of life.
Fig. 2, is an upper view ; and,
Fig. 3, an under view of the same specimen.
Fig. 4, a front view of the head.
Fig. 5, the thighs and postanal region of the male sex.
400
SUBGENUS BATRACHOSOMA, Fm.
*
GEN. CHAR. — Head rather large ; vertex very much inclined forwards ;
snout protruding. Nostrils lateral, situated at the extremity of the
supraciliary ridge. Cephalic plates moderate and rugose. Spines
large. Submaxillar shields large, flattened, and acuminated. Auri-
cular apertures extant. Six approximated series of large, mental
scales. Sides of the neck rumpled ; throat transversely wrinkled.
A prescapular fold. Two horizontal series of pyramidal scales at
the periphery of the abdomen. Abdominal scales smooth.
STN.— Batrachosoma, FITZ. Syst. Kept, i, 1843, 79.
*
OBSERV. — Position of nostrils and abdominal scales smooth, as in
Tapaya; cephalic spines and physiognomy, as in PJirynosoma. Series
of large mental scales peculiar. The pyramidal scales at the periphery
of the abdomen, being disposed upon two series, constitute a feature
foreign to Tapaya, and somewhat akin to Phrynosoma.
BATRACHOSOMA CORONATUM, Fitz.
•
(Plate XX, figs. 10-13.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Two occipital and five temporal spines. Labial plates
small, subequal. Submaxillar shields large, flattened, exteriorly
sharp-edged : the middle ones largest. Lower series of subpyra-
midal scales at the periphery of the abdomen, much smaller than
the upper. Scales under the head keelless, unequal : three or four
double longitudinal rows, upon the middle region, larger than the
rest, and acuminated. Abdominal scales subrhomboid, subacute.
Thirteen or fourteen pores under each thigh. Ground color greyish
or yellowish-brown above, maculated with black; beneath yellowish,
with scattered blackish spots.
SYN. — Phrynosoma coronatum, BLAINV. in Nouv. Ann. Mus. d'hist. nat. IV, 1835.
284. PI. xxv, fig. 1, a b c.— D0M. & BIBR. Erp6t. g6n. IV, 1837, 318.— HOLBR. N.
Amer. Herp. II, 1842, 97. PI. xin.— GRD. in Stansb. Expl. Vail. Gr. Salt Lake,
Utah, 1852, 360. PL vin, figs. 7-12. — HALLOW, in Sityr. Rep. Exped. Zuni and
Color. Rivers, 1853, 122.
BATRACHOSOMA CORONATUM. , 401
t
Phrynosoma blaineillei, GRAT, in Beechey, Voy. to the Pacif. Zaol. 1839, 96. PI.
xxix, fig. 1 (young) ; &, Catal. Lit. Brit. Mus. 1845, 228.
JBatrackqsoma coronatum, FITZ. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 79.
Phrynosoma solan's, GRAY (Brit. Mua.), Catal. Lii. Brit. Mus. 1845, 229.
DESCR. — The general proportions of the body are rather elongated.
The head is depressed, the vertex somewhat inclined forwards, and
the occipital and temporal spines leaning backwards. The nostrils,
being situated upon the anterior extremity of the supraciliary ridge,
are lateral. The snout is declivous. The cephalic plates are polygo-
nal, moderate, nodulous, or reticulated; those of the temporal region
are the most conspicuous, and more distinctly keeled. The temporal
spines are stout, three in number, and preceded anteriorly by two
strongly developed plates, the rudiments of two other spines, and
which reach the very margin of the upper jaw. The occipital spines
are slightly curved, reclining towards the neck. There are six sub-
maxillar plates, increasing slightly in size from the foremost to the
fifth ; the sixth being equal to the fourth. The labial plates are very
small ; and the inframaxillar area rather narrow. Besides, there
exists a large triangular plate at the infero-posterior angle of the
mouth, with its apex directed horizontally outwards. Although the
submaxillar plates do not extend as far back as the angle of the
mouth, yet the series of these plates is continued by three small scales
or plates situated immediately beneath the triangular plate at the
infero-posterior angle of the mouth, leading to a subconical scale-like
plate placed obliquely behind the latter. Upon the middle region of
the. chin we observe four pairs of longitudinal series of scales larger
than the rest, the outer series being the largest, and acuminated.
Several folds of the skin may be seen under the neck, as well as on its
side, upon the edge of which some large pyramidal scales are observed.
The upper series of pyramidal scales, at the periphery of the abdo-
men, extends from the shoulder to the groin, being much more conspi-
cuous than the lower series, which occupies the middle region of the
abdomen only. The abdominal scales are more of a quadrangular
shape than rhomboid ; those on the pectoral region being but very
slightly larger than the rest, and all of them smooth or keelless.
The femoral pores are rather apart; thirteen or fourteen, on either
side, approximating somewhat upon the interfemoral region, though
far from constituting a continuous series. The scales on the preanal
101
402
S A U R I A.
region are about equal sized with those of the pectoral region. Under
the base of the tail, the scales are likewise smooth ; and, in the male
sex, they are larger immediately behind the vent than elsewhere.
Along the conical portion of the tail, the scales underneath are slightly
keeled.
The ground color is greyish-brown above, with a black patch on
each side of the neck. Three transverse blotches of black, inter-
rupted upon the middle region of the back, exhibit posteriorly two
light spots. Four transverse and similar bands may be traced along
the caudal region. The limbs are likewise barred with black. The
inferior region is yellowish ; the head, belly, and tail, scattered all
over with small blackish spots ; the limbs remaining unicolor.
LOG. — This 'species occurs in Upper California.
Plate XX, fig. 10, represents the profile of the male sex of Batra-
chosoma coronatum, size of life.
Fig. 11, is a view from above ; and,
Fig. 12, a view from beneath of the same individual,
Fig. 13, being a front view of the head.
SUBGENUS PHRYNOSOMA (WIEQM.), GRD.
GEN. CHAR. — Head rather large ; vertex rather inclined forwards ;
snout rather protruding. Nostrils anterior, situated within the ex-
tension of the supraciliary ridge. Cephalic plates small and rugose ;
spines very large. Submaxillar shields large, sharp-edged. Auri-
cular apertures extant. Two distant rows of mental scales more
developed than the rest, though rather small, and slightly keeled.
Sides of the neck rumpled ; throat transversely wrinkled. A pec-
toral or prescapular fold. Two horizontal series of subpyramidal
scales at the periphery of the abdomen. Abdominal scales carinated.
Coloration : yellowish or olivaceous, maculated above with black ;
beneath unicolor, or spotted.
Syy.—Tropidogasler, FITZ. Syst. Kept, i, 1843, 79.
OBSERV. — A genus Tropidoyaster being already in existence amongst
PHRYXOSOMA CORNUTUM. 4Q3
Iguanas, since 1837,* Fitzinger's appellation could not have been re-
tained for the present subdivision, even if that of Phrynosoma, in its
restricted sense, could not have been applied. As matters stand, how-
ever, this is the only subgenus to which the latter name rightfully
belongs.
1. PHRYNOSOMA CORXUTUM, Gray.
(Plate XXI, figs. 6-9.)
££.<&**-* Zt*f*^t 7
SPEC. CHAR. — Vertex very much inclined forwards ; occipital region , ^ . o^ '
elevated. Temporal and occipital spines, subconical, long and /
acute ; occipital ones much the largest and raised above the others.
Labial plates small, unequal. Scales under the chin very small,
with two distant series of more developed ones, and acute. Lower
series of subpyramidal scales at the periphery of the abdomen con-
spicuously developed, though somewhat smaller than the upper
series. Abdominal scales small, subrhombic, acute, and conspicu-
ously keeled. Femoral series of pores not extending over the inter^
femoral region, hence widely apart. Postanal scales small. Ground
color yellowish, spotted, and clouded with blackish ; beneath lighter,
either unicolor or spotted with black.
STN.— Agama cornuta, HAUL. Journ. Acad. Nat Sci. Philad. IV, n, 1825, 299. PI.
xx ; VI, i, 1829, 14; &, Med. and Phys. Research. 1835, 141, figs. 1 & 2.— GRIFF, in
Cuv. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 216 (fig.).
Tapaya cornuta, Cuy. Regn. Anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 37.
Lacerta tapayaxin, BART. Med. & Phys. Journ. Ill, u, 18 . . 68.
Phrynosoma harlani, "\ViEGM. Herp. Mex. I, 1834, 54. — D0M. <fc BIBR. Erpet. gen.
IV, 1837, 314.
Phrynosoma cornutum, GRAY, Synops. Kept, in Griff. Anim. King. IX, 1831, 45; A,
Catal. Liz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 229.— HOLBR. N. Amer. Herp. II, 1842, 87. PI. XI.—
GRD. in Stansb. Espl. Vail, of Gr. Salt Lake, 1852, 360. PI. VIH, figs. 1-6.— HALLOW.
in Sityr. Rep. Exped. Zuni and Color. Rivers, 1853, 119.
Phrynosoma bufonlum, WIEGM. in Oken, Isis, XXI, 1828, 367. — GRAY, Synops.
Rept. in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 45.
Phrynosoma orbiculare, HOLBR. N. Amer. Herp. II, 1842, 93. Plate XII.
Phrynosoma planiceps, HALLOW, in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 178; &,,
in Sityr. Rep. Exped. Zuni and Color. Rivers, 1853, 124. Plate vii.
Tropidogaster cornutus, FITZ. Synops. Rept. i, 1843, 79.
Tapayaxin, BART. Med. & Phys. Journ. III.
* Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 329.
404
OBSEBV.— This species, together with P. coronatum, is one of the
largest of the group. It is also the one which is most commonly
known, since it inhabits a more extensive geographic range than its
congeners, as also regions so far more accessible to travellers and ex-
plorers. The recent settlement of California, however, has been
instrumental in rendering P. coronatum quite common in our col-
lections.
DESCR. — The spines of the head are very conspicuously developed.
There is a pair of occipitals, the largest of them all ; exteriorly to which,
three temporal ones may be observed, diminishing in size outwardly ;
finally, there is a fifth above the posterior rirn of the eye, and about
the size of the external occipital pair. From the supraocular spine
forwards, a thick ridge (the supraciliary ridge), extends almost to the
margin of the jaw, inclosing a subcordiform area, which is sloping
towards the nostrils : the latter being situated within the said ridge.
The snout is rather abruptly sloping. The labial plates are exceed-
ingly small, and scarcely distinguishable from the adjoining supra- and
infralabials, except the posterior lower labials, which are somewhat
larger. The mento-submaxillar shields, on the other hand, consti-
tute a very conspicuous series, quite sharp upon their outer edge, in-
creasing gradually in size backwards : the posterior one, spine-like,
lying beneath the auricular aperture. The upper surface of the head
is covered with small, polygonal, reticulated, or multicarinated plates,
largest upon the temporal and occipital regions, and smallest about
the orbits and sides of the head. The surface of the eyelid is covered
with small and smooth plates, whilst its margin is provided with
keeled and somewhat larger plates. The scales at the inferior surface
of the head are very small, slightly keeled, equal-sized, except a longi-
tudinal row on each side, in which they are somewhat larger, pyra-
midal, slightly raised, and directed outwards and backwards. The
auricular aperture is moderate, vertically oblong, and somewhat hid-
den in the midst of the numerous folds of the neck.
The body above is densely covered with scales of various sizes, very
minute on the neck and sides of the abdomen, somewhat larger and
irregular on the back and tail, where the most conspicuous may be
observed, all having a tendency to be keeled. Scattered in the midst
of these, may be seen much, larger scales, of a pyramidal shape,
raised, prickle-like, above the general surface of the body ; they con-
stitute a double series at the periphery of the abdomen, between
PHRYNOSOMA CORNUTUM. 4Q5
the axillae and the groins smaller in the lower than in the upper
series ; on the sides of the tail, they are disposed upon a single, irre-
gular series, which does not extend to its tip. The abdominal scales
are all distinctly keeled ; there is a large and conspicuous transverse
series upon the anterior part of the chest, followed by four or five con-
siderably smaller, though still larger than the abdominal ones, pro-
perly so called, and which are uniform, rather small, subquadrangular,
and posteriorly very acute ; upon the middle of the preanal region,
again, they are larger than upon the abdomen. The tail is broad at
the base, very much depressed, subconical, and tapering into a point
backwards. The scales of its inferior surface are keeled, and rather
larger than the abdominal ones.
The limbs are tolerably well developed ; still, the anterior pair,
when bent backwards, is far from reaching the groins, whilst the pos-
terior pair, by being brought forwards, reaches the shoulder with the
extremity of the toes. Both the arm and forearm are covered supe-
riorly and anteriorly with conspicuous, large, and keeled scales; smaller
ones, though keeled, still cover the inferior aspect of these organs.
About the axillae and inner aspect of the elbow, the scales become
small and granular. The upper and anterior surface of the hind limbs
exhibit a squamation very similar to that of the back. On the inferior
surface of the thighs, the scales resemble more those of the abdomen,
though smaller, being likewise keeled. There are fifteen or sixteen
femoral pores under each thigh, extending from the knee to the inter-
femoral region, over which they are not continuous. On the inferior
surface of the leg, properly so called, the scales are well developed,
and strongly keeled. The hands and feet, the fingers and toes, are
scaly to the very base of the nails, and the scales conspicuously keeled.
Three upper and three inferior series of scales may be observed around
the fingers and toes, with a slight tendency to assume a verticillated
aspect, particularly underneath. The nails are well developed, slightly
curved, compressed at the base, acute, and tapering at the apex.
The ground color assumes various shades of yellow. There is a
transverse black streak between the supraocular spines, and one across
the vertex ; the snout, about the nostrils and the margin of the jaw,
is maculated. A similar streak extends from beneath the eye, across
the angle of the mouth ; another still, stretches across the temporal
region, from the eye to the extremity of the external temporal spine.
The occipital spines are brownish. A large blackish patch on each
102
SAURIA.
side of the neck, with a middle light zone between, extends from the
occiput to the shoulders. Three pairs of similar patches may be ob-
served along the dorsal region, the patches of the anterior pair nearly
circular, and surrounded as they are by a light "margin, they assumed
an ocellated aspect. The patches of the two remaining pairs being
undulated, their posterior light margin resemble an acute triangle.
Five or six transverse black fasciae are to be observed along the sur-
face of the tail. The rest of the upper surface is clouded with brown-
ish. The limbs are barred and clouded like the tail. The inferior
surface of the body is sometimes unicolor, at others clouded with
greyish, or else distinctly maculated.
Loc. — Southwestern States of the Union.
Plate XXI, fig. 6, represents the female sex of Phrynosoma cornu-
tum, in profile, and size of life.
Fig. 7, is a dorsal view, and,
Fig. 8, a view from beneath, of the same individual.
Fig. 9, exhibits a front view of the head.
2. PHRYNOSOMA REGALE, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Vertex and occipital regions quite depressed. Temporal
^L /y t T-VH and occipital spines flat and acute, constituting a continuous series,
fa t'&rW*** very much inclined backwards. Labial plates proportionally well
developed, unequal, and rugose. Scales under the chin small,
I*. v ' ° .
rounded, subconvex; largest series subpyramidal and acuminated.
Pectoral scales moderate, and acuminated also. Lower series of sub-
pyramidal scales at the periphery of the abdomen, obsoletely deve-
loped. Abdominal scales subrhombic, not acuminated, and slightly,
though distinctly, carinated. Femoral pores small, and closely set
together ; the series from either side, not continuous on the inter-
femoral region, over which they somewhat extend. Ppstanal scales
very minute. Ground color brownish-olive above, back, limbs, and
tail transversely maculated with black ; beneath yellowish, with
small black spots on the middle of abdomen.
OBSERV. — A most characteristic species, not only by the disposition
of the temporal and occipital spines upon the same plane, but likewise
DOLIOSATTRUS. 407
by these spines being set closely together, so as to leave no interval
between them at their base. An approximation of a similar arrange-
ment of the cephalic spines may be observed in D. mccalli, in which,
however, the spines themselves are not contiguous. P. regale is the
only species which is provided with four subequal occipital spines.
Loc. — Valleys of the Zuni and Colorado Rivers.
SUBGENUS DOLIOSAURUS, Grd.
GEN. CHAR. — Head rather small and abbreviated ; vertex very large,
slightly inclined forwards ; snout abruptly truncated. Nostrils an-
terior, situated within the extension of the supraciliary ridge.
Cephalic plates moderate, or small, rugose ; spines but moderately
developed ; occipitals higher than the temporal ones. Subrnaxillar
shields large, sharp-edged. Auricular apertures sometimes but par-
tially visible externally, else entirely hidden under the skin. Mental
scales small, subequal ; gular scales minute. A double or triple
series of subpyramidal scales at the periphery of the abdomen, or
else none at all. Abdominal scales subrhombic, smooth, or slightly
carinated. Ground color olivaceous, or yellowish, maculated above
with black ; beneath unicolor.
SYN.— Anota, HALLOW, in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852,182; &, in Sitgr.
Rep. Exped. Zuni and Color. Rivers, 1853, 127.
OBSERV. — This genus is more intimately related to Phrynosoma,
than to any other of its congeners, since the abdominal scales of some
of its species exhibit exiguous keels. The head, however, is smaller,
more abruptly truncated, with the nasal region rather depressed. The
cephalic spines are much less developed also, whilst the vertex is
broader and nearly horizontal. The lower labials are small and sub-
equal.
The auricular apertures, subjected to a good deal of variations in
their external development, constitute in our opinion a general feature
of no minor importance. We can only regret that the name of Anota,
imposed by Dr. Hallowell, could not have been made available for the
genus as it now stands, since it points at that structure as developed
in one of the species only. Never did we feel more reluctant in coin-
SAURIA.
ing a name, as on the present occasion. Still, it will easily be under-
stood how the adoption of a generic name, recalling to the inind a trait
of organization which is not generical, could have had a sufficient
weight in counterbalancing the reluctancy just alluded to.
1. DOLIOSAURUS MC'CALLI, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Cephalic plates moderate. Occipital spines rather elon-
gated and slender. Submaxillar shields very large : posterior ones
spinous. No external auricular aperture. Mental scales very
small, subequal, with two distant longitudinal series of somewhat
larger ones. Pectoral scales large, carinated, and acuminated. A
triple series of subpyramidal scales at the periphery of the abdo-
men ; middle one alone well developed. Abdominal scales small,
slightly carinated. Femoral pores extending somewhat over the
interfemoral region, though the series from either side are not con-
tinuous. Yellowish-olive above, with a dorsal black line, and a
double series of rounded spots on either side of the back, uniting
into one along the tail ; whitish-yellow beneath, unicolor.
SYN. — Anota mc'callii, HALLOW, in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 182 ; &,
in Silgr. Rep. Exped. Zuni and Color. Rivers, 1853, 127. PI. x.
OBSERV. — The back is densely covered with small, irregular, and
keeled scales, with interspersed larger ones, and which are somewhat
depressed : hence, its appearance is rather smooth than rough. The
pyramidal scales at the periphery of the abdomen, together with
those that are observed on either side of the tail, are the only asperi-
ties observed in this species. The occipital spines are but slightly
higher than the temporal ones, with which they constitute a semi-
circle, and upon which they are disposed somewhat apart. Two of
the temporal spines, on either side, are rather well developed, slender
and acute, though shorter than the occipital ones. The submaxillar
shields are larger than in any other species of the same group. The
two mental series of scales, which are more developed than the rest,
extend along the middle of their respective side, being, therefore,
twice as far apart upon the medial region as their distance from the
submaxillar shields. The scales upon the anterior aspect of the chest
DOLIOSAURUS MODESTUS. 499
and the arms are very large, strongly keeled, acuminated, and some-
what raised, giving a rather rough appearance to those regions. The
tail is broad, depressed, and tapering.
Loc. — Deserts of the Gila and Colorado Rivers.
2. DOLIOSAURUS PLATTRHINOS, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Cephalic plates small. Occipital spines of moderate
development. Submaxillar shields stout : posterior ones subconi-
cal. Auricular apertures generally extant. Mental scales small,
subequal, with two longitudinal and very distant series of slightly
larger ones. Pectoral scales moderate, subcarinated, and acumi-
nated. One series of pyramidal scales at the periphery of the
abdomen. Abdominal scales moderate, smooth. Femoral pores
few, conspicuous, and distant, encroaching upon the interfemoral
region, though not in a continuous series. Brownish-olive above,
transversely maculated with black ; beneath yellowish, unicolor.
SYN. — Phrynosoma platyrhinos, GRD. in Stansb. Expl. Vail. Gr. Salt Lake, Utah,
1852, 361 & 363. PI. vii, fig. 1-5.
OBSERV. — This species has a more spinous appearance than D.
mccalli and D. modestus, without, however, approaching to anything
like the species of Phrynosoma and Batradiosoma. On the other
hand, the pyramidal scales at the periphery of the abdomen are but
moderately developed, and those on the anterior region of the chest
much less conspicuous than in D. mccaUi, the abdominal scales being
rather smaller than in the latter species, and smooth, whilst the men-
tal scales are more developed, and the series of larger ones occupy a
more lateral and backwards position, since it extends likewise over
one fold on the side of the neck. The tail is of moderate development,
depressed, and tapering.
Loc.— Valley of the Great Salt Lake of Utah.
3. DOLIOSAURUS MODESTUS, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Cephalic" plates very small. Occipital spines small.
Submaxillar shields stout : posterior ones subconical. Auricular
103
410 SAURIA.
apertures either extant or absent. Mental scales very small, equal.
Pectoral scales small, subrhombic, and subcarinated. No pyramidal
scales in series at the periphery of the abdomen. Abdominal scales
small, and slightly carinated. Femoral pores distant, constituting
a continuous series across the interfemoral region. Brownish-olive
above, maculated with black ; beneath yellowish-white, unicolor.
SYN. — Phrynosoma modestum, GRD. in Stansb. Expl. Vail. Gr. Salt Lake, Utah,
1852, 361 & 365. PI. vi, figs. 4-8.
OBSERV. — The body has rather a smooth appearance, owing to the
diminutiveness of the tubercular scales, and the entire absence of the
pyramidal ones from the periphery of the abdomen. The mental scales
are very small and equal, as in Phrynosoma, properly so called. The
cephalic spines resemble those of D. platyrldnos most, though some-
what less developed. The auricular apertures are seldom fully deve-
loped : sometimes, the right is developed and the left obliterated, or
else it is the reverse ; most generally, they are either entirely or
partially obliterated. The tail is very slender and subconical.
Loc. — Valley of the Rio Grande del Norte (Rio Bravo) .
SCBFAM. ACRODONTES.
The maxillary teeth are soldered fast upon the free and even edge
of the jaw bones. The body is either depressed or broader than deep,
else compressed or deeper than broad. A dorsal crest in some genera ;
absent in others. Palatine teeth are always wanting.
SYN. — Acrodontes, WAGL. Naturl. Sjst. Amph. 1830, 144 & 150. — DUM. & BIBR.
Erpet. g6n. IV, 1837, 375. — DUM. & A. DUM. Catal. meth. Kept. Mus. d'hist. nat. i,
1851, 86.
OBSERV. — The remarks made under the heading of the Pleurodontes
(page 313), will equally apply to the Acrodontes. The latter are all
inhabitants of the Old World.
BRONCHOCELA CRISTATELLA. 4H
GKNDS BRONCHOCELA, KACP.
GEN. CHAR. — Head subpyramidal, more or less elongated, not swollen
laterally, and protected by small angular plates. Occipital plate
small. Subconical incisive teeth upon the extremity of the jaws :
compressed, subtriangular, and tricuspid ones posteriorly. Nostrils
lateral, perforating an odd plate, situated near the apex of the
muzzle. No transverse fold under the neck. Skin, more or less
hanging down upon the throat. A dorsal crest extending from the
nape to the tail. Scales of the trunk homogeneous, imbricated, dis-
posed upon oblique series, inclined backwards, their free edge being
directed towards the belly. Femoral pores wanting.
STN. — Bronchocela, KAUP, Isis, XX, 1827, 619. — GRAY, Synops. Kept, in Griff.
Anim. KiDgd. IX, 1831, 55; &, Catal. Liz. Brit. Mas. 1845, 240.— DUM. & BIBR.
Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 394.— DUM. & A. DUM. Catal. meth. Kept. Mas. d'hist. nat. i,
1851, 86.
OBSERY. — Intimately related to Cdlotes, from which it chiefly differs
by the direction of the oblique series of scales which cover the upper
surface of the body. The cephalic plates, in Calotes, are imbricated
in such manner as to present their free edge anteriorly, contrarily to
the general rule, which consists in that free edge being directed back-
wards. The sides of the head, in Calotes, are likewise swollen : a
feature not met with in Broncliocela.
BRONCHOCELA CRISTATELLA, Kaup.
SPEC. CHAR. — Dorsal crest tolerably elevated over the neck, but dimi-
nishing suddenly over the shoulders, to proceed thus towards the
tail. Two or three small, subconical, and expanded scales behind
the supraorbital ridge. No conical tubercles on the nape ; no tu-
bercular scales over the auricular aperture. Scales of the sides of
the body narrow, lanceolated, keeled, scarcely half. the size of those
on the belly. Color uniformly blue or green.
Svy.—Lacerta mexicana strumosa, &c. SEBA, I, Thes. Nat. 1734, 140. Tab. LXXXIX,
fig. 1.
Agama cristatella, KDHL, Beitr. zur Zool. und Vergl. Anat. 1820, 108,
412
S A U R I A.
Agama gutiurosa, MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 51.
Agama moluccana, LESS. Voy. Coq. Zool. II, I, 1830, 34. PI. i, fig. 1.— SCHINZ,
Naturg. und Abbild. Kept. 1833, 90. Tab. xxx.
Agama vultuosa, GRAY, in Hardw. Icon. Ined. Tab. LXXX, 81-83.
Calotes gutturosa, GUER. Iconogr. Regn. Anim. 1833. Tab. vii, fig. 3.
Calotes cristatellus, SCHINZ, Naturg. und Abbild. Kept. 1833, 86. Tab. xxvr,
fig. 1.
Calotes gutturosus, WIEGM. Herp. Mexic. I, 1834, 14.
Bronchocela cristatdla, KAUP, in Oken, Isis, XX, 1827, 619.— BUM. & BIBR. Erpe"t.
gen. IV, 1837, 395.— GRAY, Catal. Liz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 241.
Blue Calotes, GRAY, Synops. Kept, in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 55.
DESCR. — The body is compressed, sloping towards the abdomen
from the middle line of the back, which is thus rendered more conspi-
cuous than if the same region were rounded. The tail is very long
and slender, more than three times the length of the body and head
combined, subtriangular upon its base, conical upon the second third
of its length, and quadrangular, very much diminished, upon the last
third.
The head is subpyramidal, its upper surface being slightly depressed
upon the fronto-nasal region, whilst the interocular region appears
grooved, from the fact that the ocular region is raised and convex.
The cephalic plates are very small, polygonal, nearly equal, keeled.
The nostrils perforate one, rather conspicuous plate, situated upon the
side of the snout, immediately beneath the canthus rostralis, which
is continued over the orbit as the supraorbital ridge (supraciliary of
some writers), behind which, and just over the temporal region, may
be seen two or three small, subconical, expanded, and raised scales,
forming the immediate continuation of the said ridge. The auricular
aperture is quite large, surrounded by small plates or scales, and
exhibiting its tympanum near the surface. The scales under the
head are well developed, keeled, anteriorly lanceolated, posteriorly
sublozenge-shaped ; a longitudinal fold of the skin being observed from
the hyoid apparatus to the chest. A horizontal and much wider
fold may be seen extending from the posterior extremity of the lower
maxillary to the shoulder, over the insertion of the fore limbs. The
scales over the region of the neck are smaller than under the head and
throat, though a good deal larger than those of the back ; they are
conspicuously carinated, and more or less subpyramidal or lanceolated
in their outline. The dorsal crest is tolerably elevated just over the
nape, where it is composed of erect, slender, lanceolated plates : as it
AMPHIBOLURUS. 413
reaches the shoulders, it is suddenly lowered, composed now exclu-
sively of one series of very convex, much larger scales than the adjoin-
ing ones on the sides of the back ; over the tail, the crest merges into
a slight ridge, scarcely distinguishable from the carination of the other
scales. On the upper surface of the tail, the scales are much larger
and broader than on the sides of the body, and nearly equal in size to
those observed over the limbs. On the abdomen, and inferior surface
of the tail, the scales are the largest, and strongly carinated, as also
under the limbs. The latter are slender and elongated ; the fingers
and toes being unequal, and of slender appearance.
The coloration of this species is uniformly blue or green ; sometimes,
blue-spotted, upon a green ground ; the tail being posteriorly brown,
spotted, or else semi-annulated with black.
LOG. — Singapore.
GENUS AMPHIBOLURUS, WAGL.
GEN. CHAR. — Head depressed, subtriangular, rather elongated, covered
with small, carinated, subequal, posteriorly acute, or subacute scales.
Occipital plate very small. Nostrils lateral, situated beneath the
supraciliary ridge. Supralabial plates and temporal scales carinated.
Tongue fungoid, narrow, anteriorly notched, or bifid. Compressed
and cutting teeth on the sides of the jaws, and subconical incisors
anteriorly. Auricular apertures large, simple, or subdenticulated,
with the tympanum near the surface. Sides of neck with longitudi-
nal folds ; a pectoral fold, simple. Nape and back more or less dis-
tinctly crested. Dorsal scales heterogeneous, imbricated, and cari-
nated ; abdominal scales subequal and carinated also. Femoral
pores in the male sex only ; no preanal pores in either sex. Limbs
moderately developed ; five fingers and five toes, simple, compressed,
unequal. Tail slender, very long, and tapering, depressed at the
base, over which the dorsal crest tapers away. Coloration : brown
or yellowish-brown, with irregularly transverse and dark bands
or fasciae.
SYN.— Amphilolurus, WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 145.— WIEGM. Herp.
Mex. i, 1834, 17— FITZ. Syst. Kept, i, 1843, 83.— GRAY, Catal. Liz. Brit. Mua. 1845,
232.
104
414
1 A U R I A.
OBSERV. — This genus, a dismemberment of that of GrammatopJiora,
was instituted by Wagler, though not adopted by all subsequent
writers on the subject. We are inclined to think that it is a happy
subdivision, since it is better understood. The acquisition of a second
well-marked species seems likewise to militate in favor of its adoption
in the scientific nomenclature.
1. AMPHIBOLURUS MURICATUS, Wagl.
SPEC. CHAR. — A scaly, crested ridge along the middle line of the back.
Sides of the hind part of the head spineless. Scales of the throat
not hanging down, strongly carinated, as are also those of the abdo-
men. Sides of the body with some short, erect scales. Tail without
cross rows of spines upon its upper surface. Ground color fulvous,
maculated with black above ; pale brown beneath, unicolor.
SYN. — Lacerta muricata, SHAW, Gen. Zool. Ill, i, 1802, 211. PI. LXV, fig. 2.
Ayama grandoculis, LACEP. in Ann. Mus. d'hist. nat. IV, 1804, 191.
Agama muricata, BAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. Ill, 1805, 391. — MERE. Tent. Syst. •
Amph. 1820, 53.— Cuv. Regn. Anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 36.
Agama jacksoniensis, KUHL, Beitr. zur Zool. &c. 1820, 113. — GUER. Iconogr. du
Regn. Aniin. 1831. PI. in, fig. — SCHINZ, Naturg. und Abbild. Kept. 1833, 90.
Tab. xxx.
GrammatopJiora muricata, KAUP, Isis, XX, 1827, 621. — GRAY, Synops. Rept. in
Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 60 ; in Grey, Journ. two Exped. Austr. II, 1841, 438 ;
&, Catal. Liz. Brit. Mus. 1845, 251.— DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. IV, 1837, 475.— DUM.
& A. DUM. Catal. m6th. Rept. Mus. d'hist. nat. i, 1851, 100.
Amphibolurus muricatns, WIEGM. Herp. Mexic. I, 1834, 17. — WAGL. Naturl. Syst.
Amph. 1830, 145.— FITZ. Syst. Rept. i, 1843. 84.
The muricated Lizard, SHAW, in White, Journ. Voy. N. S. Wales, 1790, 244. PI.
XXXI, fig. 1.
Lizard ou Agame gros yeux, LACEP. (vide supra.)
OBSERV. — We might almost have limited ourselves to a few remarks
upon this species, — it having been described by the various authors
quoted in the above synonymy, — were it not that their descriptions
are rather incomplete. This animal appears to be so common, or at
least so widely spread over the Australian Isle, that most of the natu-
ralists and travellers who have visited that continent, have invariably
met with it and collected it.
In size and general appearance, especially to American naturalists,
AMPHIBOLURUS MURICATUS. 415
familiar with the reptiles of their country, it will remind them of
Sceloporus undulatus, the brown or fence lizard of the farmers and
planters.
DESCR. — The head is rather elongated, subtriangular when viewed
from above, anteriorly somewhat acute. The cephalic plates, obscurely
disposed upon longitudinal series, are a little larger on the fronto-nasal
region, being all strongly carinated ; they are, generally speaking, elon-
gated, lanceolated, some of them being subrhombic, others polygonal,
always of a diminutive size; the smallest of all are observed upon the
temporal and occipital regions. The occipital plate itself is quite
reduced, and hardly perceived in the midst of the surrounding ones.
The rostral is very low, transversely very elongated, subangular. The
nostril perforates one single, rather conspicuous plate, situated side-
ways, immediately beneath the ridge of the canthus rostralis, a con-
tinuation of the supraocular ridge. The plates occupying the sides
of the head constitute irregular longitudinal series, five of which may
be counted above the supralabial plates, beneath the eye ; they are
conspicuously carinated, like the labials themselves, which are some-
what larger, except one slightly curved series, occupying the subocu-
lar region, from the nasal plate to the angle of the mouth. The lower
labials much resemble the upper, being also carinated. The symphy-
seal is irregularly pentagonal, all sides nearly equal. Under the head
and throat, the scales are small, somewhat larger anteriorly, where
they assume a lanceolated shape, than posteriorly, where they become
subrhombic ; all are conspicuously carinated. The subgular fold is
unique, simple, and transversal beneathr and ascending laterally
towards the shoulders. The neck is but slightly contracted, covered
with very small scales, especially sideways, where, however, may
be observed, scattered about, some larger ones, slightly raised above
the surface. On the nape, the scales of the medial series, being the
largest, are quite compressed, nearly vertical, constituting a crested
ridge, which can be traced all along the medial line of the back to the
base of the tail. Similar large scales may be seen on each side of the
series just alluded to and lining it, forming one series upon the ante-
rior half of the trunk, and two series upon the posterior half, to be
continued along the tail. The sides of the body are covered with
small, unequal scales, in the midst of which are scattered a few larger
ones, all being distinctly carinated. On the abdomen, the scales are
,1C SAURIA.
410
a good deal larger than those on the sides of the body, anteriorly elon-
gated, sublanceolated, whilst posteriorly, they approximate more to a
rhombic shape; they are strongly carinated, with their posterior angle
very acute, being the prolongation of the keel, on the sides of which
a small notch is sometimes observed.
The limbs are moderate : the anterior pair being smaller than the
posterior, for, when stretched backwards alongside the body, they do
not attain the groins, whilst the posterior pair, similarly brought for-
wards, will reach the orbit; their upper surface is covered with some-
what large, subrhombic, or lanceolated, and carinated scales, disposed
upon longitudinal series ; on the inferior surface of the arm, forearm,
and thighs, they are small, subrhombic, carinated ; under the legs,
properly so called, again larger, sublanceolated, and strongly carinated.
A series of distant femoral pores may be observed in the male, the
series from either side being continuous across the interfemoral region.
Under the palm of the hands and sole of the feet, the scales are very
small, subrhombic, tricarinated, like the transverse plates under the
fingers and toes. The upper surface of the digits just alluded to is pro-
tected by well-developed, imbricated, and carinated scales. The nails
are compressed, curved, stoutish at their base, and acute upon their
extremity. The tail is subconical, twice and a half as long as the
body and head combined, covered with imbricated scales ; those of its
upper surface of the size and shape of the large dorsal ones, to, at
least, one-third of the length of the organ, and those of its inferior sur-
face, like the abdominal ones, upon the same extent. Upon the re-
maining length, the scales are subrhombic, similar all around, imbri-
cated, resembling those of the upper surface of the toes ; they are
strongly carinated, especially upon the anterior portion.
The coloration varies somewhat according to age. The specimens
which we have described are about of the average size the species
attains. The upper surface of the head is dark brown. A series
of angular black spots may be seen along the dorsal region, with the
intermediate spaces of a light brown hue. On each side of these
dark spots, there is a light fulvous band, sometimes crossed by the
spots. The sides of the body being variegated with light brown, and
dark spots or irregular streaks. The limbs and tail are barred with
fulvous or light brown and black. The inferior surface of the animal
is unicolor, of a light brown hue. A young male specimen exhibits a
fulvous band across the interocular region, lined, in front and behind,
AMPHIBOLURUS MACULIFERUS. 417
by a black streak. The dorsal series of black spots are better defined ;
the fulvous band is quite distinct, beneath which, on the sides of the
body, may be seen another series of transversely elongated, large, black
spots, limited beneath by a fulvous fillet or vitta, extending from the
axillae to the groins. Under that fillet, along the lowermost portion
of the sides, small, obsolete, dark spots may }et be seen. Beneath
unicolor, like the adult female.
Loc. — " About fences at Patrick's Plains, &c.," New South Wales,
Australia.
2. AMPHIBOLURUS MACULIFERUS, Grd.
CHAR. SPEC. — Crista parvula secundum regionem dorsualem medianam
protensa. Occipitis lateribus sine squamis spinosis. Squamis gula-
ribus et abdominalibus, cum crurum facie inferiors, obsolete carina-
ti-s ; gularihus non pendentibus. Corporis latera quibusdam squamis
brevibus et ereclis sunt ornata. Cauda sine squamarum spinosum
serie transversali. Colore flavescente; tergo, cruribus, et caiida nigro
fasciatis ; abdomine et infer iori caudae facie unicoloribus ; gula et
membris punctis fuscis notatis.
SPEC. CHAR. — A diminutive scaly ridge along the middle line of the
back. Sides of hind part of the head spineless. Scales of the
throat, abdomen, and inferior surface of the limbs, obsoletely cari-
nated ; those of the throat not hanging down. Sides of the body
with some short and erect scales. Tail without cross rows of spiny
scales upon its upper surface. Yellowish, with transverse blackish
bands on the back, limbs, and tail; belly and tail beneath unicolor;
throat and limbs speckled with blackish.
SYN. — Amphibolurug maculiferus, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November,
1857, 198.
OBSERV. — This species is so closely allied to the preceding one that,
upon a first glance, one might well have supposed not to differ from
it. This must have been the impression of the naturalists of the
Expedition, for we find no mention made of the unique specimen
105
418
S AURIA.
now before us, a prepared skin, about the size of A. muricatus. It is
of the female sex, too, and thus compares well with the latter species.
The scales of the upper surface of the head present no material
differences ; they are irregularly disposed upon longitudinal series,
somewhat larger upon the fronto-nasal region, subrhombic, or lanceo-
lated, and strongly keeled ; the occipital plate being very small. The
supraocular ridge and the position of the nostril immediately beneath
it, at equal distance between the anterior rim of the eye and the apex
of the snout or muzzle, are equally similar. The scales under the
head, on the other hand, are larger, being moderate in size, subequal,
subrhombic, slightly carinated, provided with an acute point at their
posterior angle. The subgular fold is simple also. The nape and
dorsal region of the body exhibit a very slight ridge, amounting to
a mere keel on the middle row of scales, which are very slightly
raised above the surface. The dorsal scales themselves are nearly
equal, well developed, rounded upon their posterior margin, slightly
keeled, disposed upon longitudinal series along the middle region of
the back ; towards the sides, they diminish somewhat in size, the
carination itself becoming very obsolete ; upon the abdominal region,
they appear nearly smooth, equal in size to those of the sides, and
obscurely disposed upon longitudinal series. The tail is subconical,
slightly depressed at the base, conical, and tapering into a point; it is
a little more than twice the length of the body and head together :
therefore, proportionally shorter than in A. rmiricaius. The scales of
its upper surface resemble, in size and shape, those of the dorsal region,
a few of the middle series being carinated, and that very slightly ; be-
neath, they are a good deal smaller than on the abdomen, and nearly
smooth also. The scales of the upper and lower surface of the limbs
resemble those of the back and belly, bearing the same relation to
them as is usually the case in the species of this genus, differing, in
the present species, from those of the preceding ones, by the same
general features as just referred to.
The ground color is yellowish-olive. The upper surface of the head
and neck is dark brown. Five transverse, dark brown, undefined
blotches exist along the upper region of the body, making it appear
as though entirely brown, with yellow spots along the back, which
yellow spots are simply areas of the ground color not occupied by
the dark blotches. The flanks are clouded with brownish, fenes-
trated, or reticulated lines. On the sides of the neck is a double jet-
OREODEIRA. 419
black spot. The abdomen is unicolor. The under surface of the head
and limbs, dotted with black. The limbs and tail above are barred
with dark and yellow or yellowish-olive ; beneath, the tail being uni-
color, like the abdomen.
Loc. — New South Wales, Australia.
GENUS OREODEIRA, GIRARD.
CHAR. GEN. — Capite depresso, latiori, et breve; scutis pan-is, subtubercur
lodis, et subimbricatis, cooperto. Scuto occipilali ampliori. Naribus
lateralibu-s, intra porcae s-upraciliaris prolationem sitis. Scutis supra'
labialibus et squamis temporalibus carinatis. Lingua crassa, antice
emarginata rel bifurcata. Dentibus compressie et acutis ad laterem
maxillae; incisoriis subconicalibus. Apertura auditoria modica, ej'us
margine anteriori subserrato ; tympana prope orificium exteriorem
sito. Plicaturis transversalibus, gulari et pectorali. Golli Jateribus
diverse plicatis sen corrugatis. Crista parva cervicali, secundum
regionem dorsualem evanescente. Squamis dorsualibus modicis, pror-
sus aequalibus, carinatis, in series obliquas dispositis ; abdominalibus
pan-is, subaequalibus et carinatis; occipitalibus et cervicalibus parvis-
simis, mbgranulosis. Cruribus gracilibm, elongatis ; die/ids palma-
rum plantarumque gracilibus, compressis, inaequalibus, et uncinatis.
Cauda gracili, subconicaU, minuente. Fbris femoralibus et praeana-
libus nullis.
GEX. CHAR. — Head depressed, rather broad and short, covered with
small, subtuberculous, and subiuibricated plates. Occipital plate
rather large. Nostrils lateral, situated within the extension of the
supraciliary ridge along the snout. Supralabial plates and tempo-
ral scales carinated. Tongue fleshy, anteriorly notched or bifid.
Compressed and cutting teeth on the sides of the jaws, and sub-
conical incisors anteriorly. Auricular aperture moderate, subser-
rated ; tympanum situated near its surface. A gular and a pec-
toral cross fold. Sides of the neck variously folded or rumpled.
Nape with a small crest, vanishing away along the back. Scales
on the back moderate, homogeneous, keeled, disposed upon oblique
series ; on the abdomen, small, subequal, and keeled also ; on the
420
S A U R I A.
occiput and neck, very small, subgranular. Limbs slender and
elongated, terminated by slender, compressed, unequal, clawed
fingers and toes. Tail slender, subconical, and tapering. Femoral
and preanal pores wanting.
Sw.— Oreodeira, GKD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857, 199.
OBSERV. — This genus represents, in Australia, the group of Phry-
nocephali, to which it belongs as a distinct type. The cephalic plates
and the occipital scales imbricate, in an inverse manner, with those of
the back, their anterior margin being thicker and elevated, whilst the
posterior margin is thin, and slightly covered over by the adjacent
plates or scales, as the case may be.
OREODEIKA GRACILIPES, Grd.
CHAR. SPEC. — Scutis supralaUalibus in ires series ordinatis, quam
labiales minoribus ; infralabialibus exiguis, item in ires series ordi-
natis. Scutis mentalibus valde parvis, qui ab infralabialibus vix dis-
tingui possunt. Femorum facie posteriori squamosa. Squamis cau-
dalibus quam dorsuales et abdominales multo majoribus. Supra,
olivaceo-fuscata antice maculata ; infra olivaceo-flavescente ; mento
fastis vel nigris punctis obsoletis notato.
SPEC. CHAR. — Three complete series of supralabials, smaller than the
labials ; infralabials exiguous, constituting likewise three series.
Mental shields quite small, scarcely distinguishable from the infra-
labials. Posterior aspect of thighs scaly. Caudal scales conspicu-
ously larger than the dorsal and abdominal ones. Brownish-olive
above, anteriorly maculated ; beneath yellowish-olive ; chin obso-
letely spotted.
SYN. — Oreodeira gracilipes, GRD. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. November, 1857,
199.
DESCR. — The specimen before us measures two inches and a half,
the tail excluded. The head has a short appearance, obtusely trian-
gular when seen from above. Its upper surface is shelving forwards
from the ocular regions, which are themselves somewhat convex, is
OREODEIRA GRACILIPES. 421
protected by tuberculous or subtuberculous, unequal scales, smooth in
appearance; they are rather small, generally speaking; the occipi-
tal alone is quite developed, irregularly hexagonal, with its transverse
diameter somewhat more developed than the longitudinal one. The
middle supraocular plates are larger than the surrounding ones ; and,
upon the fronto-nasal region, they are the smallest and most irregular
in shape ; upon the frontal and interocular regions, they are interme-
diate in development between those just alluded to ; upon the tempo-
ral and occipital regions, they resemble those of the frontal regions.
The rostral plate is very small, subquadrangularly and transversely
elongated. The nostrils perforate a tubular plate, directed backwards,
and situated upon the extension of the supraciliary ridge itself, and
nearer the apex of the muzzle than the anterior rim of the orbit. The
upper labials, which increase in size posteriorly, are but very little
larger than the adjoining row of supralabials : the second row of the
latter is much smaller than the first ; the third is a very exiguous
one; all being narrow and long; the differences consisting chiefly
in their width. Then follows a series of more conspicuously ridged
scales, proceeding from beneath and behind the nostril, and extend-
ing to the angle of the mouth. Between the latter row and the
inferior rim of the orbit, may be observed several other rows of very
small scales. The auricular aperture is subcircular : the tympanum,
which is situated near the surface, exhibits a fold somewhat oblique
from upwards, downwards, and forwards. The symphyseal plate is
large, subtriangular, posteriorly acute. The inferior labials are largest
anteriorly, gradually diminishing towards the angle of the mouth.
Under the head, the scales are very small, obsoletely carinated : a few
series, lining the labials, being somewhat more conspicuous than the
rest ; under the throat, they are very minute, where two folds of the
skin are, moreover, observed : the posterior one regularly transverse ;
the anterior one broadly V-shaped. The neck itself is rather con-
tracted, covered with small scales, with a few small eminences on
each side, over which the scales stand more or less erect. From the
neck forwards, the imbrication is reversed, so that the free edge of the
scales and plates is the anterior edge. A small crest, composed of
equal, compressed, erect, and lanceolated scales, is to be seen, extend-
ing from the occiput to the origin of the trunk.
The body is depressed, broader than deep, covered above with mode-
rate, subequal, subrhombic, carinated scales, disposed upon series at
106
422
S A U R I A.
the same time transverse and longitudinally oblique upwards, converg-
ing towards the dorsal series, which otherwise has the same shape and
size as the rest. The catenation is conspicuous, and follows the oblique
longitudinal lines. They are somewhat reduced in size as they approxi-
mate the lower portion of the sides, and pass, without transition, to
the abdomen, where they constitute similar transverse and oblique
series, subrhombic in shape ; their posterior angle is acute, owing to
the prolongation of the keel, which is not very apparent except uudor
the chest. The tail is subconical, depressed at the base, protected by
imbricated and carinated scales, larger than those of the body, and
somewhat smaller beneath than above. The legs are quite slender :
the anterior ones, when stretched backwards alongside the body, are
made to reach the groins, while the posterior ones will attain the
auricular aperture when similarly dealt with. The scales covering
their upper surface are larger than beneath, larger over the arms than
the forearms, whilst over the thighs they are smaller than over the
legs, properly so called, and, moreover, as large beneath as above,
on the latter-mentioned region; over the forearms, they are also equal
in size above and below. It is almost needless to say that they are all
strongly carinated. Under the palm of the hands and sole of the feet,
their size is quite reduced, though preserving their general aspect,
such as a rhombic shape and conspicuous keel. Under the fingers
and toes, we observe transverse bicarinated plates, and a,bove, small,
imbricated, and keeled scales. The nails are compressed, curved, and
acute. There are neither femoral nor preanal pores visible upon the
specimen examined, in all probability of the female sex.
The color above is brownish-olive, with small black spots over the
posterior portion of the head, neck, shoulders, anterior portion of the
trunk, and fore-limbs. Beneath yellowish-olive, with obsolete, small
spots, under the head alone.
LOG. — New South Wales, Australia.
CHELONIA,
1857.
ORDO IT. CHELONIA.
WE come now to the last order, that of the Chelonians, which stands
at the head of the class of Reptiles. Turtles seem to be the link, the
transition, between their class and the higher classes of vertebrata :
the Birds and Mammals.
Nothing more easily recognizable than a reptile of the Chelonian
order : a double shield, one more or less convex or arched, is on the
back, and known as the carapax ; the other is flat or nearly so, opposed
to the former, and called the plastron or sternum, both so combined as
to constitute a kind of inflexible box or trunk, between the extremities
or edges of which, the head, limbs, and tail, may, in most cases, be
either entirely or partly retracted or withdrawn.
In all vertebrata, the solid frame is composed of a series of subcylin-
drical bones, the vertebrae, constituting a flexible chain in the direction
of the longitudinal axis of the body, and on the sides of which the
ribs are inserted, whilst the sternum, or breast bone, is placed under
the latter, forming together a cavity, in which are found the principal
viscera of the animal economy, the flesh or muscles enveloping the
bony frame. In the Chelonians, the dorsal vertebrae and the ribs
expand, and unite more or less intimately together, to form the rigid
carapax and the sternum or plastron, both being protected exteriorly
either by the skin alone, or else by horny and epidermic shields or
large scales ; the muscles as well as the viscera being lodged inte-
riorly, the muscles along the inner surface of the bones, the viscera
in the cavity proper.
The Chelonians have no teeth properly so to be called ; the jaws
are generally stout and robustly built, protected by a horny sheath,
constituting a bill, in shape not unlike that of some Parrots and birds
of prey, their edge being, however, occasionally serrated. The palate is
toothless also. As to the tongue, it is thick and fleshy, freely mova-
107
CHELONIA.
ble, composed of numerous muscles, though not exsertile, and filling
altogether the lower floor of the mouth. The eyes are provided with
distinct eyelids, and the drum of the ear or tympanum is either visible
exteriorly or hidden under epidermic plates. The legs are short,
thickish, and variously constructed, according to habits. The tail is
subconical, and the vent or cloacal aperture circular.
The Chelonians are oviparous: the eggs, once laid, receive no further
attention from their parents ; the young, therefore, are left to their
own care. They have numerous enemies in the shark and other car-
nivorous tribes, of which a large number become an early prey.
In the newly just-hatched young, the carapax is longer than broad
in the sub-order of CMonii, whilst it is circular in that of Testudinata.
In the Chelonii also, the snout is more acute, and the upper jaw pro-
vided above with a pointed process, which disappears gradually during
ulterior growth : the Testudo nasicornis, of Lacepede, and the " Rhino-
ceros Turtle," of Shaw, allude to that transient peculiarity.
As a question of nomenclature, we do not see the propriety of re-
taining the name of Testudinata to designate this Order. True, it is
older than that of Chelonia, but Klein,* who was the first using it as
a prefix to the Turtles, did not characterize the latter as a natural
group ; and moreover, the terrestrial species being enumerated first on
his list, if the name is at all to be preserved, it will naturally revert
to the sub-order including those species.
Alex. Brongniartf established the order of Chelonians upon a scien-
tific basis, and his name is the one that ought to be retained.
It is preposterous, at any rate, to use the name of Testudinata in one
sense, and that of Chelonians in another sense, in speaking of these
Reptiles.J
When the law of priority, in regard to scientific nomenclature, can-
not be strictly enforced — and such is the case for a good many names
of divisions higher than genera — it becomes the duty of the naturalist
to select such names as may embody some philosophical idea, or recall
to mind some historical fact, affording a safe guide towards further
progress.
Thus, if it be admitted that the Reptiles under consideration were
* De Quadrupedum dispositio brevisque historia naturalis, 1751.
f Bulletin de la Societe Philomatlque de Paris, 1800, 89.
J Contributions to the Natural History of the United States of America. I, 1857,
235 (note).
C H E L 0 N 1 1. 427
shown to constitute an Order, when the name of Chelonians ( Chelonia)
was applied to them, let these Reptiles be designated under the latter
name.
Furthermore, the order of Chelonians subdivides into two natural
sub-orders ; and, since we find, in either of these sub-orders, a family
and a generic name, typifying best their respective group,* we deem
it rational to call the first Chelonii, and the second Testudinata.
Cheloniens, BROXGN. in Bull. 8oc. Philom. 1800, 89.— Ccv. Regn. Anim. II,
1817, 6; 2d ed. II, 1829, 5; &, ed. illustr. Kept. 9.— BUM. & BIBB. Erpet. gen. I,
1834, 345; &, II, 1835, 1. — TEMM. & SCHLEG. in Sieb. Faun. Japon. Erpet. 1838, 1.
Chdonia, GRAY, in Ann. nat. Hist. I, 1838, 275; Catal. Tort. Croc. & Amphisb.
Brit. Mus. 1844, 3 ; &, Catal. Shield. Kept. Brit. Mas. 1855, 1.— HOLBR. N. Amer.
Herp. I, 1842, 21.
The synonyms of Testudinata will be found, further on, under the
heading of that sub-order.
SUB.ORDO I. CHELONII.
The Marine Tortoises are easily distinguished from the land and
fresh-water tribes, and which constitute the sub-order of Testudi-
nata. Their body is very much depressed, cordate or subcordate, gene-
rally even on the periphery of the carapax ; the plastron, which is
always much longer than broad, and immovable, is never completely
ossified in the centre, being united to the carapax by a cartilaginous
arch. The carapax and plastron, both, are either covered with horny
scales or a leathery skin. The ribs remain free at their extremities.
They are provided with four limbs, which cannot be withdrawn under
the carapax : the anterior pair is much longer than the posterior pair,
both of which being constructed to fulfil the act of natation; the digits
are very long, individually immovable, firmly united into flippers,
pallets, oars, or paddles, very much flattened, rendering their move-
ments powerful and fast in water, powerless and slow on land, sandy
beaches, and rocks. The hands are about four times longer than the
forearms ; and the feet about once again the length of the tibiae or
* Chelonidae and Chelonia, Tettudinidae and Testudo.
428
CHELONIA.
legs, properly so called. There are sometimes two claws to either
flipper, at others only one, or else none at all. Whenever present,
the thumb nail is more developed in the male sex than in the female.
The tail is always short, thickish, subconical, and tapering.
The head is subquadrangular across the orbits, and more or less
rounded, abbreviated, or subconical anteriorly, covered with polygonal
plates, except in the adult of the " Leather Turtle" (Sphargis), in
which the skin of that region is smooth and exposed as elsewhere.
The orbits themselves are large. The nasal cavity rather small, and
wider than long. The tympanum is hidden under the temporal plates.
The neck is but little flexible : hence, the head is not retractile under
the carapax.
Their food consists chiefly of marine plants, some species feeding
likewise on Crustacea and molluscs. Essentially of marine habits,
they never leave the water, except at the period of laying eggs, which
they deposit in the sand, not far from the shore.
This group includes the largest species of the order, and with whom
the crocodiles alone, amongst other reptiles, can be compared as to
size. The flesh of some of them is served upon our tables, as well as
their eggs, which constitute an article of luxury. Others afford to
commerce their "shells," which is used for various economical pur-
poses, hence, of great utility to man, as well as a source of consider-
able revenue.
.— Chelonii, OPPEI,, Kept. Prodr. 1811, 4, 6, & 8.— GRAY, in Ann. of Philos. X,
1825,210; &, Synops. Kept, in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 3.— WIEGM. & RUTHE,
Handb. Zool. 1832, 163.— BONAP. Sagg. Distr. Anim. Vertebr. 1831, 70; &, Chelon.
Tabul. Anal. 1836, 3.— AOASS. Contr. nat. Hist. U. S. Amer. I, 1857, 249 & 308.
Pinnala, MERE. Tent. Syst. Ainph. 1820, 17.— BELL, in Zool. Journ. Ill, 1828,
516.
Carettoidea, FITZ. Neue Class. Kept. 1826, 5.
Eretmochelon.es, RITGEN, in Nov. Act. Acad. nat. cur. XIV, 1828, 269.
Oi'acopoda, WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 133.— FITZ. Syst. Kept, i, 1843, 30.
Thalassites, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gdn. II, 1835, 506.
ThalasslJae, CANTOR, Catal. Kept. Malay. Pen. 1847, 11.
Sea Tortoises or Turtles, SHAW, Gen. Zool. Ill, i, 1802.
OBSERV. — Two families constitute this sub-order, the Sphargidae, or
Leather Turtles, and the Chelonidae, or Scaled Tortoises : of the latter
alone, do we find representatives in the collection made by the U. S.
Exploring Expedition.
THALASSOCHELYS. 429
FAM. CHELONIDAE, BOHAP.
The Clielonidae may be distinguished from the Sphargidae at the
very first glance by the existence of large epidermic scales covering
the carapax and sternum, and by the presence also of horny plates
over the head. In Sphargis, cephalic plates are observed only in
young specimens ; in the old, the head exhibiting the naked skin, as
well as the surface of the limbs, which in Clielonidae are protected by
scales and plates of various size and shape. The apex of the lower
jaw in Sphargis is acerated and curved upwards, whilst the upper jaw
is notched laterally as well as anteriorly. In Chelonidae the shape
and structure of the jaws is peculiar in each genus. It may be that
the same would be the case amongst Sphargidae were there more than
one genus composing it.
SYN.— Cheloniadae, GEAY, in Ann. of Philos. X, 1825, 212; Catal. Tort. Croc. &
Amphisb. Brit. Mus. 1844, 51 ; &, Catal. Shield. Kept. Brit. Mus. 1855, 70. — BELL, in
Zool. Journ. Ill, 1828, 516.
Chelonidae, BONAP. Sagg. Distr. anim. vertebr. 1831, 71; &, Chelon. Tabul. anal.
1836, 4 & 9.
Chelonioidae, AOASS. Contr. Nat. Hist. U. S. Amer. I, 1857, 324.
Chdoniae, WIEGM. & RCTHE, Handb. Zool. 1832, 165.— FITZ. Sjst. Kept, i, 1843,
30.
OBSERV. — Whilst the family of Sphargidae is composed of but one
genus and a single well-determined species, that of Chelonidae em-
braces various genera, some of which being composed of several species.
GJJNUS THALASSOCHELYS, FITZ.
GEN. CHAR.— Head very large; jaws robust, anteriorly compressed,
sharp and even upon their margin, and curved towards one another
at the tip. Two pairs of frontal plates ; an interfrontal, sometimes
divided ; a vertex plate ; and, two pairs of parietals. A middle
occipital, very large ; two pairs of latero-occipitals ; and several post-
occipitals. Three postoculars. Mental shields present. Side of
lower jaw protected by angular plates. Carapax cordate, ovate,
posteriorly indentated upon its periphery, covered with fifteen un-
108
430
CHELONIA.
imbricated shields, ridged in the young, even in the adult ; marginal
shields twenty-five or twenty-seven in number. Plastron ridged in
the young, with six middle pairs of shields and four lateral ones ;
several postaxillar shields. Two claws to either flipper.
grN. — Les CMonees c.aouanes, DUM. & BIER. Erpet. gen. II, 1835, 551.
Thalassochelys, FITZ. in Zool. Ann. Wien. Mus. (1836), 1841, 128 ; &, Syst. Kept. I,
1843, 30. — BONAP. Arnph. Europ. 1839, 12. — AGASS. Contr. Nat. Hist. U. S. Amer.
I, 1857, 383.
Caouana, GRAY, Catal. Tort. Croc. & Amphisb. Brit. Mus. 1844, 52 ; &, Catal. Shield.
Kept. Brit. Mus. 1855, 72.
Caouanae, CANTOR, Catal. Kept. Malay. Pen. 1847, 13.
OBSERV. — The head is much larger than in any other genus of Che-
lonidae, and the apices of the jaws more powerfully hooked and curved
towards one another. The middle occipital plate is remarkable for
its development ; it seems to be the centre around which most of the
others are disposed.
Dumeril and Bibron were the first to distinguish the Loggerhead
Turtle as a subgeneric group, without however giving any particular
name to it. A year afterwards Fitzinger coined for it the generical
appellation of Thalassochelys ; and we dare say that, when John
Edward Gray, in 1844, proposed to designate it under the name of
Caouana, he meant to reinstate that which ought to have been adopted
from the very beginning. In that manner the scientific nomenclature
would simply have consecrated a vernacular appellation long since in
use.
In the " Catalogue of Shielded Reptiles," Gray claims priority for his
genus Caouana over that of Thalassochelys, referring the reader to
the "Annals of Philosophy for 1825," where we have been unable to
detect it.
The species for which the same author proposes the name of Caouana
elongata (Catal. Tort. Croc. & Amphisb. Brit. Mus. 1844, 53; &, Catal.
Shield. Kept. Brit. Mus. 1855, 73), belongs either to Thalassochelys or
to Lepidochelys, but it is too imperfectly known to enable us to decide
that question. It appears to be closely allied to Testudo cepediana
(BAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. II, 1805, 50. PI. xvn, fig. 1), which, in our
judgment, bears stronger affinities to Lepidochelys than to Thalasso-
chelya.
THALASSOCHELYS CORTICATA. 431
THALASSOCHELTS CORTICATA, Grd.
(Plate XXIX.)
SPEC. CHAR.- — Carapax rather elongated, subcordiform, nearly even in
the old, exhibiting three longitudinal ridges in the young, in which
the posterior margin is likewise more indentated than in grown-up
individuals. Marginal shields twenty-seven. Interfrontal plate
divided. Four moderate mental shields in a transverse series.
Four unequal, medium-sized plates on the side of the lower jaw,
and several small ones posteriorly. Eeddish-brown above ; yellow-
ish-brown beneath.
SYN. — Testudo corticata, ROND. Pise. Mar. 1554, Lib. XVI, Cap. iii.
Tesludo marina, GESN. Hist. Anim. Quadr. Ovip. 1554, 114; &, Nomencl. Aquat.
Anim. 1560, 183.— ALDROV. Quadr. Ovip. 1621, 712. Tab. DCCXIV.— OLEAE. Mui.
1666, 27. Tab. xvn, fig. 1. — GOTTW. Physik. Anat. Bemerk. Schildk. 1781. Figs. 1-4.
Testudo caretta, LINN. Syst. Nat. ed. X», I, 1758, 197; &, ed. XII% I, 1766, 351.
— WALB. Chelonogr. 1782, 4 & 95.— GMEL. Linn. Syst. Nat. ed. XIII», I, iii, 1788,
1038.— SCHCEPFF, Hist. Test. 1792, 67 & 74. Tab. xvi, xvi b, & xvir, fig. 3. —
DONND. Zool. Beitr. Ill, 1798, 9.— LATE. Hist. nat. Kept. I, 1802, 53.— SHAW, Gen.
Zool. Ill, i, 1802, 85. Tab. xxnr, xxiv, & xxv (Bad). — Cuv. Regn. Anim. 2d ed.
II, 1829, 14 ; &, ed. illustr. Kept. 20.— HOLBB. N. Amer. Herp. II, 1842, 33. PI. iv.
Testudo marina caouana, CATESB. Nat. Hist. Carol. II, 1771, 40. Tab. XL. — RAT,
Synops. Meth. Anim. Quadr. 1693, 257.
Tesludo cephalo, SCHN. Allg. Naturg. Schildkr. 1783, 303.
Testudo caouana, BONNAT. Encycl. meth. Erpet. 1789, 20. — BECHST. Lacep. Naturg.
Atiph. 1, 1802, 110.— DACD. Hist. nat. Rept. II, 1805, 54. Tab. xvi, fig. 2.— Cuv.
Regn. Anim. II, 1817, 13.
Chelonia caouana, ScHWEio. Prodr. Monogr. Chelon. in Arcb. Konigsb. I, 1812,
292 & 418.— WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 133. Tab. r, figs. 1 & 26.— GRAY,
Synops. Rept. in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 53. — BIBR. & BOEY, Exped. scient.
de la Moree, III, i, Zool. 1832, 64.— BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. II, 1835, 552.
Caretta cephalo, MERE. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 18. — MAXIMIL. Beytr. Naturg.
Bras. I, 1825, 25.— Risso, Hist. nat. Eur. merid. Ill, 1826, 85.
Chelonia caretta, GEAVENH. Delic. Mus. Zool. Vratisl. I, 1829, 7. Tab. i, fig. 3.
Chelonia virgata, WAGL. Descr. & Icon. Amph. 1838. Tab, xxix.
Chelonia pelagiorum, VALENC. Rept. Mor. 1832, 64. Tab. x.
Chelonia ((7are«a) cephalo, LESS, in Bilang. Voy. Ind. Orient. Zool. 1834, 300.
Chelonia cephalo, TEMM. & SCHLEG. Faun. Japon. Erpet. 1838, 23. Tab. iv, figs.
1-3.
Thalassochelys caouana, FITZ. in Zool. Ann. Wien. Mus. I, 1841, 128 ; &, Syst.
Rept. i, 1843, 30.— AGASS. Contr. Nat. Hist. U. S. Amer. I, 1857, 384. PI. vi, figs.
13-32, & PI. vn, fig. 30.
432 CHELONIA.
Caouana caret/a, GRAY, Catal. Tort. Croc. & Amphisb. Brit. Mus. 1844, 52 ; &,
Catal. Shield. Kept. Brit. Mus. 1855, 72.
Chelonia rvppelii, GRAY, Brit. Mus.
Tesludinis marinae pullus, SEBA, Thes. Nat. I, 1734. Tab. LXXIV, fig. 4.
Tcstudo pedibm pinniformis, &c. GaoNOV. Zoophyl. 1781, 71.
Tortue Kahouane, DUTERT. Hist. nat. Antil. II, 1662, 228.
La Caouane, LABAT, Voy. Aux Isles de 1'Amer. 1, 1722, 304 & 308.— LACEP. Quadr.
Ovip. I, 1788, 95.— Cuv. Regn. Anim. II, 1817, 13 ; 2d ed. II, 1829, 14 ; &, ed.
illustr. Kept. 20. — TEMM. & SCHLEG. in Sieb. Faun. Japon. Erpet. 1838, 23.
Meerschildkrole, MEYER, Zeitvertr. I, 1748. Tab. xxx & xxxi.
The Loggerhead turtle, BROWNE, Civ. & Nat. Hist. Jamaic. 1756, 465.— CATESB. Nat.
Hist. Carol. II, 1771, 40. Tab. XL.
The Mediterranean tortoise, BROWN, New Illustr. Zoolog. 1776, 116. Tab. XLVIII,
fig. 5.
Testnggine di mare, CETTI, Stor. di Sardegna, III, 1777, 12.
Caguana, PARRA, Descr. Hist. nat. 1787. Tab. XLIII.
La Tortue nasicorne, LACEP. Quadr. Ovip. I, 1788, 103.— BONNAT. Encycl. meth.
Erpe-t. 1789, 21. PI. in, fig. 3.
La Tortue caouane, BONNAT. Encycl. meth. 1789, 20. — Bosc, in Nouv. Diet, d'hist.
nat. XXXIV, 1819, 256.
Rhinoceros turtle, SHAW, Gen. Zool. Ill, 1, 1802, 95. Tab. XIV.
OBSERV. — There are various opinions entertained regarding the
specific identity or difference between the Loggerhead Turtles of the
Mediterranean Sea, and the eastern coast of the Atlantic, and those
occurring on the western or American coast of that ocean. That
they may cross the expansion of water just alluded to, is plausible;
for they have been met with in the open sea. Still, the question
recurs as to whether we have the same species on the American
side, as on the European ? It will take a long series of investiga-
tions to solve the problem, since it will become necessary to collect
extensively, and study them very closely, in either places, and after-
wards compare the specimens at various stages of growth.
Not having any other specimen at hand, except the one brought
from Madeira, we are not prepared to institute any comparisons
towards the elucidation of this subject. We have restored to it the
oldest name given to the Loggerhead of the Mediterranean, which is
also the oldest bestowed upon the species : so that if it is ever satis-
factorily shown that the " Caouane" of the West Indies is of a dif-
ferent species, the name of Tlialassochelys caouana is the one that
will properly revert to it. Then we would have two genuine species
in the genus, and two only; for, we propose to show, further on, that
the Loggerheads of the Pacific, Chelonia olivacea and C. dussumieri,
THALASSOCHELYS CORTICATA. 433
belong to a different genus. The long list of synonyms will have to
be subdivided and referred each to its proper species.
The shell of the Loggerhead Turtle is too thin to be of any use to
the arts. Its flesh is of a very inferior quality and unfit for the
table. The fat is transformed into oil, which is used in the arts.
More than a century and a quarter ago, Labat, in his "Voyages
aux Isles de 1'Amerique," in speaking of the "Caouane," or Loggerhead
Turtle, states, that it grows to a larger size than either the "Green
Turtle," or the " Caret," of the same localities.
DESCR. — The specimen which lies before us, and from which the
accompanying figure was made, is a little over one foot in total length;
it is the only one brought home by the Expedition. The vertebral
protuberances are still quite prominent, whilst the lateral ones have
almost completely disappeared. The periphery of the carapax is
likewise still conspicuously serrated. The plastron itself exhibits
four interrupted ridges ; the two middle ones extending over the six
pairs of contiguous shields, forming a sort of stretched ellipsis, whilst
the two outer ones extend over the lateral shields, and are a good
deal shorter, and less conspicuous. The specimen represented in fig.
1, exhibits an anomaly in the anterior vertebral shield, which is irre-
gularly subdivided into two; the anterior division being the smaller
of the two, and more developed upon the left side, where it affects
the anterior middle marginal shield, which is quite reduced in width.
The upper aspect of the head is subconvex ; its very surface is ren-
dered uneven by elevations and shallow grooves : the middle region of
most plates being somewhat raised, whilst their commissure is de-
pressed. The middle occipital plate (a) is the largest ; the anterior latero-
occipitals (bb), are next in size; then the anterior parietals (cc), the
postfrontals (dd), the postparietals (ee),the vertex plate (/), the
posterior latero-occipitals (g g), the prefrontals (7< h), the central post-
occipital (*'), the lateral postoccipitals (k k), and finally, the inter-
frontals (II), which are the smallest when subdivided; whilst, if
united into one, it would be subequal with the lateral postoccipitals.
We dare say, the relative size of the cephalic plates may change
somewhat, according to the size of the specimen under examination,
especially the occipitals of various denominations ; still, we believe
they never do vary so much as to render their study unavailable for
zoological purposes. These plates are so accurately represented in
109
434
CHELONIA.
fio-. 3, that a more minute description of them is not deemed neces-
sary. The same is the case regarding the plates on the sides of the
head, exhibited in fig. 4 : five temporal shields (or plates), of consider-
able development, may be seen : three in front, one above, and one
below the tympanic region, properly so called, and which is covered
by plates a good deal smaller. On the sides of the lower jaw, there
are four irregular plates of moderate size, and about half a dozen of
smaller ones, which approximate the angle of the mouth. The mental
shields are small, four in number, disposed upon a transverse series,
contiguous to the horny sheath of the lower jaw. The rest of the chin
exhibits an indurated epidermis variously plaited.
The color is dark reddish-brown above, and yellowish-brown be-
neath. The cephalic plates are reddish upon their middle region, and
yellowish at their periphery.
Loc. — The specimen figured was collected at Madeira, in 1838, on
the passage out of the Expedition.
Plate XXIX, fig. 1, represents Thalassochelys corticata, in profile.
Fif. 2, exhibits the same animal from below.
O '
Fig. 3, is an upper view of the head ; and,
Fig. 4, a side view, with the mouth open, in order to exhibit the
outline of the jaws.
All these figures are drawn half the natural size of the specimen.
GENUS LEPIDOCHELYS, Fitz.
CHAR. — Head moderate ; anteriorly compressed ; snout rather
protruding; jaws sharp and even upon their margin, curved towards
one another at the tip. Eye moderate. Two pairs of frontal plates,
a vertex plate, and three pairs of parietals. A middle occipital,
moderate, sometimes subdivided ; two pairs of latero-occipitals ; one
pair of postoccipitals and occasionally a few small additional ones.
Three postoculars. Carapax subcordate, or subelliptical, ample,
posteriorly indentated upon its periphery, covered with seventeen
to twenty-one unimbricated shields, ridged in the young, smooth in
the adult. Marginal shields, twenty-seven in number. Plastron
LEPIDOCHELYS OLIVACEA. 435
with six middle pairs of shields, and four lateral ones. One claw to
each flipper, either well developed or blunt and rudimentary.
SYX. — Lepidochelys, Fixz. Syst. Kept, r, 1843, 30.
OBSERV. — This genus is more closely allied to Thalaesoclielys than
any other of the same family. It differs from it by a somewhat
smaller head, smaller eye, the disposition or arrangement of the
cephalic plates, and especially by the presence of one claw only to
each hand and foot. Eschscholtz already spoke of the affinities of his
Chelonia ollvacea with G. cephalo, one of the names given to the
Loggerhead or T. corticata. Dum^ril and Bibron themselves placed
their G. dussumieri, which they consider as identical with G. olivacea,
in the same subgerieric group with the Loggerhead properly so called.
In a philosophical point of view it may be stated that Lepidochelys
represents in the East Indies the Loggerheads or Thalassochelys of the
Atlantic Ocean. The flesh is equally unpalatable to a civilized popu-
lation.
In tracing the further history of L. olivacea and L. dussumieri, the
naturalist must not lose sight of Caouana. elongata and Testudo cepe~
diana, already alluded to above (p. 430).
1. LEPIDOCHELYS OLIVACEA, Fitz.
SPEC. CHAR. — Anterior pair of parietal plates contiguous upon their
inner margin, and interposing themselves between the vertex plate
and the postfrontal pair. Second and third pair of parietals rather
large ; second pair of postoccipitals smaller than the first pair.
Carapax subcordate. Seven unequal vertebral shields, and six or
seven costal pairs. Posterior extremity of the carapax but slightly
emarginated. A blunt nail to each flipper. Greenish-olive above ;
pale yellow beneath.
STN. — Chelonia olivacea, ESCHSCH. Zool. Atlas, I, 1829, 2, Tab. ni. — CANTOR,
Catal. Kept. Malay. Penins. 1847, 13.
Chelonia caouana, var. B. GRAY, Synops. Kept, in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831,
54.
436 CHELONIA.
Thalassochelys olivacea, FITZ. in Zool. Ann. Wien. Mus. I, 1841, 128.
LepidocheJyt olivacea, FITZ. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 30.
Cao uana olivacea, GRAY, Catal. Tort. Croc. & Amphisb. Brit. Mus. 1844, 53 ; &,
Catal. Shield. Kept. Brit. Mus. 1855, 73.
OBSERV. — Eschscholtz, who was the first to describe this species,
speaks of two specimens which fell under his observation : a young
and an adult. According to his own statement, these specimens ex-
hibited various differences, which might have been looked upon as
specific, had he not made a comparative study of them. Thus, the
width of the carapax when compared to its length, is smaller in the
adult than in the young. The young exhibits a prominent ridge
along the vertebral line, produced behind in the shape of a spine, and
which is no longer observed in the adult, except -that the first and
fifth vertebral shield are rather convex. The costal shields are seven
on either side in the adult, and in the young six on the left side, and
seven in the adult. The lateral edges in the adult are horizontal.
The cephalic plates are identical in both the young and the adult,
the latter, however, exhibiting an additional odd occipital plate, thrust
between the hind part of the postoccipitals. The margin of the jaws
is even in either case. The adult is provided with a blunt nail to
each fore and hind flipper, whilst the young is clawless.
Most of these differences, however, are of minor importance, with
the exception of one, which teaches a morphological fact of great
value : we refer to the presence of a blunt nail or claw in the adult,
and which the young does not possess. Hence we may conclude, that
when the young exhibits any claws whatever, the latter are likely to
be found in the adult.
The first pair of cephalic plates might be taken for a third pair of
frontals, from the fact of their being contiguous upon the middle line
of the cephalic region, and situated in advance of the vertex plate.
Whichever be their appellation, the distinctive mark remains the
same. Three pairs of contiguous plates are observed in advance of the
vertex plate, which is elongated and hexagonal.
The digits are mostly naked or scaleless ; the rest of the paddle, or
anterior portion of the limbs, is protected by conspicuous scales.
LOG. — Chinese Seas.
LEPIDOCHELYS DUSSUMIERI. 437
2. LEPIDOCHELYS DUSSUMIERI, Grd.
SPEC. CHAR. — Anterior pair of parietal plates not contiguous upon
their inner margin, between which the vertex plate is interposed,
the latter touching the postfrontal pair; second and third pairs of
parietals rather small; postoccipitals subequal. Carapax subellip-
tical. Five vertebral shields : three middle ones narrow and elon-
gated; fifth expanded sidewise. Six pairs of costal shields. Poste-
rior extremity of the carapax deeply emarginated. A well-deve-
loped and acute claw to each hand and foot. Reddish-brown above ;
limbs darker than the carapax, except the claws, which are yel-
lowish. Head and neck lighter ; centre of cephalic plates reddish,
with a yellow margin ; jaws yellowish.
SYN. — Chelonia dussumierii, DUM. & BIBR. Erp^t. gen. II, 1835, 557. (Exclus. syn.)
OBSERV. — The carapax is subelliptical ; that is, less tapering poste-
riorly than in L. olivacea. The first pair of parietal plates, obliquely
directed forwards, are situated on the sides of the vertex plate, which
is elongated and hexagonal, and contiguous anteriorly to the postfron-
tals. The second and third pairs of parietals are rather narrow or
exiguous, and smaller than the latero-occipitals. The postoccipitals
are subelliptically elongated. There are three small additional post-
occipitals, one behind the commissure of the typical plates of the same
name, the others behind the latero-occipitals. The inferior and middle
postorbitals are subequal, elongated, larger than the upper. The tem-
poral plates, or shields, are unequal. The neck is covered with small
scales, and the paddles with small plates, largest along the digits and
along the edges of these organs.
Loc. — Coast of Malabar.
REMARKS ON CHELONIA VIRGATA, Schw.
The generical affinities of this species remain yet a subject for fur-
ther investigations. Cuvier supposed it to be more intimately related
to the " Caret," of the Red Sea, spoken of by Bruce, than to any
of the other types. The figure in the " Iconographie du Regne ani-
110
CHELONIA.
mal," is suggestive of a closer relationship to LepidocMys than to
Chelonia.
The specimen from California, referred to Chelonia virgata by
Agassiz, exhibits the same generical affinities. A further study of
them, together with a comparison of specimens from the various loca-
lities where they are said to occur, will undoubtedly reveal some curi-
ous results. We subjoin the following references :
gYN. — Chelonia virgata, Scnw. Prodr. Monogr. Chelon. in Arch. Kcenigsb. I, 1812,
291 & 411.— Cuv. Regn. anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 14.— Gue>. Iconogr. du Regn. anim.
1834, Kept. Tab. I, fig. 4.— BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. II, 1835, 541.— GRAY, Catal.
Tort. Croc. & Amphisb. Brit. Mus. 1844, 54 ; &, Catal. Shield. Kept. Brit. Mus. I,
1855, 74.— CANTOR, Catal. Kept. Malay. Penins. 1847, 11.— AGASS. Contr. Nat. Hist.
U. S. Amer. I, 1857, 379.
It is easier to conceive how a sea-turtle might, from the eastern
coast of Asia, reach the Red Sea, than its passage from the same coast
to California, or vice versa.
GENUS CARETTA, MERE.
GEN. CHAR. — Head small, anteriorly compressed and tapering for-
wards; snout declivous and protruding; jaws robust, with a blunt
and even margin, which is nearly horizontal to the tips. Two pairs
of frontal plates; a vertex plate and one pair of parietals; a middle
occipital, rather large; two pairs of latero-occipitals, and one pair
of postoccipitals. Three postoculars. Mental shields none. Side
of lower jaw with an elongated plate. Carapax cordate, ovate,
covered with thirteen imbricated shields ; marginal shields twenty-
five, constituting posteriorly a serrated edge. Plastron, with six
middle pairs of shields, and four lateral ones; several postaxillars.
Two claws to either flipper.
SYN.— Caretta, MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 17.— Frrz. Neue Class. Kept. 1826,
5.— BONAP. Amph. Europ. &c. 1839, 12.— GRAY, Catal. Tort. Croc. & Amphisb. Brit.
Mus. 1844, 53; &, Catal. Shield. Kept. Brit. Mus. I, 1855, 73.
Chelonees imlriquees, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. II, 1835, 547.
Cheloniae imbricatae, CANTOR, Catal. Rept. Malay. Penins. 1847, 12.
Erelmochelys, FITZ. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 30. — AGASS. Contr. Nat. Hist. U. S. Amer.
I, 1857, 380.
CAR ETTA. 439
OBSERV. — Although the name Caretta was framed as early as 1820,
this genus was really distinguished and characterized as a natural
group, by Dumeril and Bibron, fifteen years later, and not by Fitz-
inger, who wrote eight years after the second volume of the " Erpe-
tologie gen£rale" was published, and who, moreover, never character-
ized the genus.
A better name than Caretta could not have been selected to desig-
nate this genus, viewed in the same light as Caouana for the Logger-
head ; and, it having priority over its competitor, Eretmochelys, there is
no plausible reason for rejecting it. To say that its present limits are
not those originally ascribed to it by Merrem, is mere trifling. Was
the Shell Tortoise, Caretta imbricata, not included in it by Merrem
himself? How many genera of the older writers have met with the
same fate, and yet have been universally adopted, although in a re-
stricted sense.
Hence, we cannot perceive why the name Eretmochelys should
"now be retained," and on what ground "no one has a right to change
it hereafter."*
There are several well-marked species of Carets distributed over the
warm temperate and torrid zones of both hemispheres. The typical
one, and, perhaps, the most ancient on scientific record, is that of the
West Indies, or Caretta imbricata, MERR. The East Indian species,
Caretta squamosa, must have been known to navigators and traders
before the discovery of America by Columbus; but its history is inter-
woven with that of C. imbricata. to such an extent as to make it a
difficult task to divide the various synonyms between the two. We
dare say most of the writers of the eighteenth century have spoken
of the two indiscriminately, whether they drew their descriptions or
observations from specimens or simply quoted their predecessors. At
any rate, if the specimens were before them, they never questioned the
identity of the two species, hence, never instituted a series of critical
comparisons, owing, perhaps, to the fact, that the materials at their
command were in too fragmentary a condition.
The Carets of the Polynesian Sea constitute likewise a peculiar
species, distinct both from C. imbricata and C. squamosa. Further-
more, we should not be surprised at hearing of the existence of more
than one species in the South Pacific Ocean. The specimens brought
home by the U. S. Exploring Expedition seem to foretell that such is
* Contrib. to tie Nat. Hist, of the U. S. of Amer. I, 1857, 380,
440
CHELONIA.
the condition of things. Future investigators alone will be competent
to decide the question rightfully, should they enter the field well
prepared for conducting a series of observations upon all the speci-
mens which an Antarctic cruise is likely to place before their eyes.
The " Note-book" of the Expedition, under the head of Broken Bay,
Southeast Australia, states that a small specimen of the Caret genus
had been observed at that place, and that " it might prove distinct
from the Feejees species."
The various species of the genus Oaretta yield the Tortoise-shell of
commerce, which is of various qualities, affecting its market price.*
This fact alone would seem to point at a diversity of species. Their
flesh is, generally speaking, of an inferior quality, and unpalatable, to
Europeans, especially in the East and West Indies. Indeed, in the
West Indies, it is spoken of not only as unpalatable but as possessing
highly cathartic properties. In the South Pacific Ocean, however,
we are informed that " it was tried repeatedly, and not found at all
inferior" to that of the true Cheloniae.
1. CARETTA IMBRICATA, Merr.
SPEC. CHAR. — Carapax subcordiform, rather elevated ; dorsal region
shelving; periphery deeply emarginated posteriorly. Vertebral
shields ridged along their middle : anterior one triangular ; the
remaining four rhomboid. Middle occipital plate much broader
than long. Middle postorbital smaller than the other two. Skin
of the neck without horny plates. Ground color yellow or fawn,
marmorated with brown.
SYN.— Testudoimbricata,~Liny. Syst. Nat. ed. X», 1, 1758, 197; &, ed. XIIa, 1, 1766,
350.— WALB. Chelonogr. 1782,46 & 110.— SCHN. Allg. Naturg. Schildk. II, 1783, 309;
&, Beytr. Naturg. Schildk. in Leipz. Magaz. z. Naturk. 1786, 258. — GMEL. in Linn. Syst.
Nat. ed. XIII", I, in, 1788, 1036.— LACEP. Quadr. ovip. I, 1788, 105. Tab. n.—
SCHOSPFF, Hist. Testud. 1792, 83. Tab. xvm A, &xvinB.— DONND. Zool. Beytr. Ill,
1798, 3.— Cov. Tabl. elem. d'hist. nat. 1798, 288; Regn. anim. II, 1817, 13; 2d ed.
II, 1829, 13 ; &, ed. illustr. Kept. 19.— LATR. Hist. nat. Kept. I, 1802, 50. PI. I, fig.
2.— SHAW, Gen. Zool. Ill, i, 1802, 89. Tab. xxvi & xxvii.
Testudo caretta, RAY, Synops. meth. Anim. Quadr. & Serp. gen. 1693, 258.
* Annals and Magazine of Natural History. Second Series. Vol. IV, 1849, 297.
CARETTA IMBRICATA. 441
Testudo caretta, KNORR, Delic. nat. II, 1767, 124. Tab. xxx. — CATESB. Nat. Hist.
Carol. II. 1771, 39. Tab. xxxix.— BONNAT. Encycl. meth. Erpe"t. 1789, 21. PI. iv,
fig. 1.— BAUD. Hist. nat. Kept. II, 1805, 39. PI. xvn, fig. 2.
Chelonia imbricata, SCHW. Prodr. Monogr. Chelon. in Arch. Koenigsb. I, 1812, 291
& 408. — MAXIMIL. Beytr. Naturg. Bras. I, 1825, 24. — GRAVENH. Delic. Mus. Zool.
Vratisl. I, 1829. 6. Tab. I, fig. 2.— WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 133.— GRAY,
Synops. Kept, in Gn'f. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 52. — BUM. & BIBR. Erpe't. gen. II,
1835, 548.— TEMM. & SCHLEG. in Sleb. Faun. Japon. Erpe't. 1838, 13. Tab. v, figs.
1 & 2.— HOLBR. N. Amer. Herp. II, 1842, 39. PI. vii.— TSCH. Faun. Peruan. Herp.
1845, 22.— BELL, Hist. Brit. Kept. 1849, 1 (vignette).
Caretta imbricata, MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 19. — GRAY, Catal. Tort. Croc. &
Amphisb. Brit. Mus. 1844, 53 ; &, Catal. ShieW. Kept. Brit. Mus. I, 1855, 74.
Chelonia multisciitata, KUHL, Beytr. Zool. & vergl. Anat. 1820, 78.
Eretmochelys imbricata, FITZ. Syst. Kept. I, 1843, 30. — AGASS. Contr. nat. Hist.
U. S. Amer. I, 1857, 381.
Tesludo marina americana, SEBA, Thes. nat. I, 1734. Tab. LXXX, fig. 9.
Tesludinis marinae pullus, SEBA, Thes. nat. I, 1734. Tab. LXXIX, fig. 6.
La Tortue Caret, DuiERT. Hist. gen. Antil. II, 1662, 229. — BONNAT. Encycl. meth.
Erpet. 1789, 21.
S:aled tortoise-shell, GREW, Mus. Reg. Soc. 1681, 38. Tab. m, fig. 4.
Le Caret, LABAT, Voy. aux Isles de 1'Amer. I, 1722, 304. — LACEP. Quadr. ovip. I,
1788, 105. Tab. n.— Cuv. Regn. anim. II, 1817, 13 ; 2d ed. II, 1829, 13; &, ed.
illustr. Kept. 19.— Bosc, in NOUT. diet, d'hist. nat. XXXIV, 1819, 255.
La tuilee, DAUB. Diet. Eucycl.
The Hatck'tbill Turtle, BROWNE, Civil and Xat. Hist, of Jamaica, 1756, 465.— CATESB.
Nat. Hist. Carol. II, 1771, 39. Tab. xxxix.
La Chelonee Caret, LESS, in Belang. Voy. Ind. Orient. Zool. 1834, 300.
OBSERV. — -The above specific characters are derived from the " Erpe-
tologie generale." The synonymy is given for the reasons already
stated, that the history of this species is interwoven with that of Ca-
retta squamosa.
LOG. — Atlantic Ocean : West Indies especially.
In the Zoology of Belanger's " Voyage aux Indes Orientates," pp.
301 & 302, Lesson mentions, as occurring in the Atlantic Ocean :
1. Chelonia pscudocaretta (La Chelone'e faux Caret), and,
'2. Chelonia bicarinata (La Chelone'e a sternum bicareoe).
But his descriptions of the same are so inaccurate as to leave us in
doubt regarding the true affinities of these Turtles.
in
CHELONIA.
2. CARETTA SQUAMOSA, Grd.
(Plate XXX, figs. 1-7.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Carapax cordiform, rather broad across the middle ; back
subconvex; periphery moderately serrated. Three middle vertebral
shields largest and subrhomboid ; anterior one smallest. Median
postoccipital plates rather broad, sometimes as broad as long. Middle
postorbital much larger than, the other two. No mental shields.
Skin of the neck studded with small horny plates. Ground color
yellowish and brownish-olive, maculated with black.
. — Testntfo squamosa, RAT, Synops. raeth. Anim. Quadr. & Serp. gen. 1693, 260.
Testudo imbricata, PENN. Ind. Zool. 1769, 87.
Eretmochelys squamata, AGASS. Contr. Nat. Hist. U. S. Amer. I, 1857, 382.
Le Caret, FERM. Hist. nat. Holl. Equinox. 1767, 50.
OBSERV. — About two centuries ago, Bontius figured and described,
under the name of Testudo squamata* an animal inhabiting the rivers
of the Island of Java, and which cannot claim a place in the order
of Chelonians. If at all a reptile, its relationships must be sought for
amongst the Saurians.
The prefix Testudo, however, has so much influenced his followers,
that the animal referred to has invariably been placed amongst the
Turtles.
Thus, Linnaeusf makes it a synonym to the Shell-Tortoise, or Tes-
tudo (Caretta) imbricata, without further comment.
Joh. Gottl. Schneider J takes some pains to inquire into the nature
of the animal, and, although struck with the great resemblance be-
tween the figure of Testudo squamata, of Bontius, and the quadrupeds
now known as Manis, he still thinks that Bontius must have had a
Turtle in view. He dissents from Linnaeus as to its being a marine
species, and places it in the fresh-water group.
* Historiae naturalis et mcdicae Indiae orientalis Libri sex. Lib. V. Historia anima-
lium. 1658, 82.
t Systema Naturae, &c., ed. XII.
J Allgemeine Naturgeschichte der Sohildkrote, nebst einem systematischen Verzeich-
nisse der einzelnen Arten. 1783, 340.
CARETTA SQUAMOSA. 443
Jo. Frid. Gmelin,* probably influenced by Schneider, concluded to
withdraw it from the Sea Tortoises, and place it amongst the fresh-
water species, inferring, from Bontius's statement, that it might prove
a link between the Lizards and the Turtles.
Lace"pedef leaves Testudo squamata amongst the synonyms of Chelo-
nia imkricata, just as he found it in the twelfth edition of the " Sys-
tema Naturae."
DaudinJ admits the Testudo squamata, of Bontius, which he quotes as
a species of Turtle, without adding anything of his own on the subject.
After the lapse of about half a century, during which Testudo squamata
seemed as though entirely forgotten, the name was again exhumed,
and applied to a Sea Tortoise, of the Caret group.§
J. Ray|| is the only one, among the early authors, who perceived
the differences between the Carets of the two oceans; but he has
remained forgotten altogether.
The "Caretta or Sea Tortoise," alluded to by Bruce^[ as occurring in
the Red Sea, may prove identical with the present species. The figure
is sufficiently accurate to enable us to decide upon itsgenerical affinities.
Its specific characters require a careful reconsideration.
DESCR.** — The occipital plate is the largest ; the parietals come next
in order; then the postoccipitals, and anterior latero-occipitals, which
are subequal ; the postfrontals, the posterior latero-occipitals, and the
prefrontals, successively.
The prefrontals are transversely elongated, almost parallelogramic
in shape. The postfrontals are irregularly angular, subtrapezoid. The
vertex plate is subhexagonal, somewhat longer than broad, and nearly
as wide anteriorly as posteriorly; it is contiguous in front to the post-
occipitals, sideways to the parietals, and behind to the middle occipital.
The parietals are elongated, rather narrower anteriorly than poste-
* Carol! a Linne, Systema Naturae, &c., ed. XIIIa, aucta, reformata. I, in, 1788,
1040.
f Histoire naturelle des Quadrupedes ovipares et des Serpents. Vol. I, 1788, 105.
J Histoire naturelle des reptiles, II, 1805, 216. (Tortue ecailleuse Je Bontiut.')
§ Contributions to the Natural History of the United States of America, 1, 1857,382.
|| Synopsis methodica Animalium Quadrupedum et Serpentini generis, vulgarum notus
characteristicas, rariorum Descriptiones integras exhibens, &c. 1693.
\ Travels to discover the Sources of the Nile, in the years 1768-1772. Vol. V,
1790, 215. PI. XLII.
** The following description is based upon figures 1-4.
CHELONIA.
riorly. The middle occipital is sub-octagonal, its anterior extremity
forming an obtuse concave angle, for the reception of the posterior
extremity of the vertex plate ; its lateral angles are contiguous to the
parietals and anterior latero-occipitals ; whilst, posteriorly, it comes
into contact with the postoccipitals. The latter are somewhat longer
than broad, and irregularly angular; a small accessory interoccipital
may be seen at the posterior extremity of their commissure. The
anterior pair of latero-occipitals is much larger than the posterior
pair; both being broader than long. The rim of the orbit is formed
superiorly, by the parietal and both pair of frontals, posteriorly by
three postorbital plates, and inferiorly by the upper jaw. The middle
postorbital is much larger and longer than the two remaining ones ;
the uppermost is the smallest ; the lowermost advances nearly as far
as the middle of the orbit, There are three temporal shields, irregu-
larly angular, subequal with the upper and lower postorbitals, whilst
five smaller ones occupy the tympanic region, properly so called. The
eyelids are covered with coriaceous plates, the uppermost of which are
considerably more developed than the rest. The nostrils, large and
subcircular, rest upon a notch at the superior and anterior margin of
the upper jaw. An elongated shield may be observed on the side of
the lower jaw ; a few small coriaceous plates occupy the space about
the angle of the mouth. There are no mental shields ; the skin over
the chin and neck is naked, though wrinkled in various ways. The
upper surface of the forearm and carpus is protected with polygonal,
rather well-developed plates, larger towards their anterior margin than
upon their middle ; largest and transversely elongated at their
posterior margin. The under surface of the arm is mostly covered
with the naked skin, some scattered subelliptical and subcircular
plates being observed toward its anterior margin alone. On the palms,
the plates are more numerous, quite large, and transversely elongated
towards their anterior margin, whilst, posteriorly, the skin is exposed.
The digits are all plated ; the two exterior bear a stout claw, and
exhibit the largest plates on their surface ; the plates which cover the
third and fourth fingers are subquadrangular and well developed, ex-
cept the terminal one of each, which is more elongated and irregular
in shape. A large subelliptical plate occupies the posterior margin
of the flipper at the extremity of the fifth finger.
The plates which cover the surface of the hind flipper exhibit the
same general aspect as those just described. The two exterior toes
CARETTA SQUAMOSA. 445
are provided with an equally stout, depressed, and tapering claw. The
first, second, and third toes are closely approximated ; the fourth and
fifth diverge, the interdigital space being covered above and below
with much smaller plates. The antero-posterior region of the tarsus
and sole exhibiting a naked skin, whilst a rather large, subpentagonal
plate may be observed at the posterior margin of the tarsus.
The carapax, which is two feet long, measures likewise two feet
across its middle region. In shape it is cordiform, of rather broad
appearance, as the measurements just alluded to would lead us to ex-
pect. The back is subconvex, somewhat ridged posteriorly. The
marginal shields are twenty-five in number : twelve pairs and an odd
anterior one. The six anterior pairs are rather narrow, whilst the six
posterior pairs are broader, increasing in width backwards. The
periphery is but moderately serrated from the seventh pair of mar-
ginal shields. The vertebral shields are broader than long, the ante-
rior one is the smallest, the three middle are somewhat larger and
subequal with the fifth or posterior one, which is differently shaped,
less of a rhomboid figure than the three middle ones. The posterior
pair of lateral or costal shields is much smaller than the other pairs.
The eyelid is light blue, and the cornea black. The neck and
shoulders are bluish, with pink reflections. The carapax is yellowish
and brownish-olive, maculated with black. The plates of the head
and flippers exhibit a jet-black spot upon their middle, whilst their
periphery is yellow or brown.
Loc. — Sooloo Seas and Indian Ocean.
Plate XXX, fig. 1, represents a profile of Caretta squamosa, from the
Sooloo Seas, considerably reduced in size.
Fig. 2, an outline of its carapax, viewed from above.
Fig. 3, the head, seen from above ;
Fig. 4, a side view of the same.
Figs. 5 & 6, represent outlines of the head of another specimen whose
labelling, as to locality, was lost.
Fig. 7, is an outline of a carapax, the label of which has likewise
been lost.
112
CHELONIA.
3. CARETTA ROSTRATA, Grd.
(Plate XXX, figs. 8-13.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Carapace subcordiformi per transversiim thoracis quam
pelvis angustiori; tergo antice rotundo, postice subconvexo; peripheria
modice serrata. Scutis vertebraUbus tribus medianis quam reliquos
majoribus. Scuto occdpilali latiori quam longiori; sculis postoccijn-
talibus elongatis, longioribus quam latioribus. Fusco-olivacea, nigro
maculata.
SPEC. CHAR. — Carapax subcordiform, narrower across the chest than
the pelvis ; back anteriorly rounded, posteriorly subconvex ; peri-
phery moderately serrated. Three middle vertebral shields largest.
Occipital plate broader than long ; postoccipitals elongated, longer
than broad. Olivaceous-brown, maculated with black.
SYN.— ?
OBSERY. — The heads and carapaces figured constituting all the
materials at our command, a complete description of this species can-
not well be drawn up at the present time.
As compared to the preceding species, the one under consideration
may be distinguished by a proportionally longer head, and especially
a more elongated rostrum. The cephalic plates, the occipitals amongst
others, exhibit corresponding differences, which, when once alluded to,
are sufficiently prominent to enable any one discriminating between
the two species. The outline of the carapax affords also a few pecu-
liarities worthy of special notice : its contraction across the pectoral
region, the structure of its anterior margin, the- great development of
the vertebral shields, are of the number.
The pattern of coloration is the same as in G. squamosa, although
the black maculae are more confluent, giving the entire body a much
darker appearance.
The flesh of this species was tried repeatedly by the Exploring
Expedition party, and was not found at all inferior to that of the true
Cheloniae.
EUCHELYS. 447
Loc. — The specimens were procured at the Feejee Islands. How
far the species extends over the South Sea has not been ascertained.
Plate XXX, figs. 8 & 10, represent, each, an upper view of two
heads of Carejtta rostratu, somewhat reduced in size ;
Figs. 9 & 11, being their profiles.
Figs. 12 & 13, are upper views of two carapaces.
GENUS EUCHELYS, GIRARD.
CHAR. GEX. — Capite parvo, rotund ato ; rostro obtuse, abbreviate ; max-
illis robust i-s, cum marginibw acutis et integris ; apice maxillae infe-
rioris recurvato; maxilla superiori antice emarginata. Scutorum
frontalium et parietaliurn pari uno; scuto verticis uno; occipitali
mediano ampli&simo; scutorum latero-occipitalium paribus duobus, et
pari uno postoccipitalium transverse elongatorum. Scutis postocula-
ribus quatuor. Scutis mentalibus prcesentibus. Scuto elongato ad
maxillae inferioris laterem. Carapace cordiformi, tredecim scutis non
imbricatis tecto ; periplieria integra. Sterno sex paribus scutorum
medianorum et lateralium quatuor cooperto; scutis postaxiUaribus plu-
ribus. Palmif, plantisque umjuibus duobus praeditis.
GEN*. CHAR. — Head small, rounded ; snout obtuse and abbreviated ; jaws
robust, with a sharp and even margin ; lower jaw curved upwards
at the tip; upper jaw somewhat emarginated upon its middle. One
pair of frontal plates ; a vertex plate, and one pair of parietals. A
middle occipital, very large ; two pairs of latero-occipitals, and one
pair of transversely elongated postoccipitals. Four postoculars.
Mental shields present. Side of lower jaw with an elongated plate.
Carapax cordate, covered with thirteen non-imbricated shields.
Periphery even. Plastron with six middle pairs of shields, and
four lateral ones ; several postaxillar shields. Two claws to either
flipper.
OBSERV. — This genus partakes of the characters of both Thalasso-
chelys and Ghelonia ; of Thalassochelys, by the presence of two claws
to each hand and foot ; of CJielonia, by the structure of the head and
CHELONIA.
jaws. It differs, however, from both, by zoological characters easily
appreciable.
From Lepidoclielys it differs in the relative number of the claws, and
also by the same structural characters of the head which distinguish
it from Thalassoclielys.
Its nearest relationships are, however, with Chelonia, if we take the
cephalic plates into consideration. The very great development of the
anterior flippers may acquire a generic value from the moment a second
species should be found presenting the same feature.
EUCHELTS MACROPUS, Grd.
(Plate XXXI, figs. 9-11.)
SPEC. CHAR. — Uniform blackish-brown above, with the edge of the
carapax and the flippers whitish or yellowish ; beneath yellowish,
with a black patch on each flipper.
SYN. — Testudo macropus, WALB. Chelonogr. 1782, 112.
Testudo mydas, SCHCEPFF, Hist. Testud. 1792, 73. Tab. xvn, fig. 2.— LATR. Hist,
nat. Kept. I, 1802, 22. Tab. i, fig. 1.
OBSERV. — -The above synonyms, we dare say, are but a portion of
those that may hereafter be referred to this species when its natural
history shall have been better investigated, and the various authors,
who have treated this subject, better understood, a task which at pre-
sent was premature to perform. For, it must be remembered that the
only materials at our disposal are two immature specimens, one of
which we have caused to be figured on the accompanying Atlas, and
from which the following description is made.
A great similarity is likely to be found between the young of this
species and Chelonia viridis, and we are inclined to think that they
have often been taken for one another. One character, however, will
always be a sure guide : we allude to the presence of two nails to
each flipper in Euclielys macropus, and one only in Chelonia viridis.
Authors, when speaking of Chelonia viridis, sometimes ascribe to it
one nail to each flipper, and at others, two, without further inquiry
into the value of that structure.
EUCHELYS MACROPUS. 449
DESCR. — The snout is quite compressed, the superipr region of
the upper jaw, immediately in advance of the nostrils, exhibiting a
subacute process which seems to occur in most Chdonidae during the
early stages of their growth. The anterior aspect of the upper jaw
is shelving inwardly downwards, a trait which is gradually obliterated
as the animal grows older.
The middle occipital plate is proportionally very large, heptagonal,
narrowest anteriorly, the odd angle, which is contiguous to the vertex
plate, being the smallest. The vertex plate itself is small, pentagonal,
anteriorly acute, engaging between the frontals, which are six-sided and
very much elongated. The parietals, which are next to the middle
occipital in size, are subrounded and obscurely heptagonal, presenting
a broad side to the middle occipital; two small sides : one to the vertex
plate, another to the frontals ; two others, equally small : one to the
anterior latero-occipitals, another to the upper postorbitals ; whilst the
remaining two sides constitute, together with the frontals, the superior
rim of the orbits. The latero-occipitals are obscurely six-sided, the
anterior pair being semewhat larger than the posterior pair. The
postoccipitals are transversely elongated, contiguous upon the middle
line of the occiput, meeting sideways both latero-occipitals. The infe-
rior postorbital is always larger than the three remaining ones, which
are either subequal, else, the uppermost or first is the smallest, and
the second occasionally larger than the first and third, which in that
case are subequal. The temporal shields, or plates, are, as usual,
smaller over the tympanum than at its periphery. The extremity of
the lower jaw is curved upwards as in Tlialassochelys. An elongated
infra maxillary shield may be observed, followed by three or four quite
small plates, beneath the angle of the mouth. The mental shields are
but three in number, transversely arranged over the chin. The gular
region, throat, and neck exhibit numerous, small, plate-like, dermic
indurations, similar to those which may be seen about the axillar and
inguinal regions.
Viewed from above, the carapax is regularly cordiform ; the verte-
bral ridge is very obtuse, and the costal ridges very obsolete; its peri-
phery is but very slightly emarginated at the commissure of the mar-
ginal shields. Its entire surface is minutely pitted, assuming a some-
what reticulated appearance. The second and third vertebral shields
are more developed, transversely, than any of the others, and more
regularly hexagonal also, than the first and fifth ; the fourth is penta-
113
450
CHELONIA.
gonal. The first and fourth costal shields are subtrapezoid ; the second
and third pentagono-pyramidal. The marginal shields are twenty-five
in number, subequal, somewhat longer than broad posteriorly than
anteriorly ; the anterior odd one is the largest of all.
The ridges over the plastron are more conspicuous than those of the
carapax, without, however, being too prominent ; they are more deve-
loped along the middle region, than towards the extremities. The
vitelline split is yet distinctly seen between the fourth and fifth pair
of shields. As usual, the shields constitute six middle pairs, and an
anterior odd one, small and triangular in the specimens now before us.
The three anterior pairs are narrower than the fourth and fifth. There
are four lateral pairs of angular, subequal shields, and from six to eight
quite small, postaxillar plates, and a few still smaller preinguinal ones.
The skin about the axillae and groins is covered with very small,
irregular, and unequal plates, or scales, or derinic indurations, which-
ever called.
The anterior flippers are very large ; when stretched backwards
along the periphery of the carapax, they will -reach the edge of the
last pair of marginal shields. Both their upper and lower surfaces are
plated, the plates over the middle region being much smaller than
towards the edge. The first and second fingers exhibit each an acute
nail, more conspicuous on the first than on the second, which is pro-
tected by three plates, the one bearing the nail being larger than the
two remaining ones combined.
The hind flippers are very broad and thin, and when extended for-
wards, along the sides of the plastron, they do not quite reach the
axillae. Their upper and lower surfaces are likewise plated, and the
plates over their middle regions are much smaller than towards their
margin. The first and second toes exhibit also an acute nail, stouter
on the first (or thumb) than on the second.
The tail is very small, subconical, and plated ; the series of plates
along its upper aspect being larger than the rest, and transversely
elongated.
The upper surface of the head and carapax is blackish -brown ; the
temporal plates are blackish in the centre, and yellowish at their
margins ; the edge of the upper jaw, beneath the eye, is black also ;
the eyelids and rest of the snout are yellowish-brown. The chin and
neck are greyish. The edge of the carapax and the entire plastron
are yellowish. The upper surface of the flippers is blackish in the
HALICHELYS. 451
middle, and yellowish upon their edges. Their inferior surface is
mostly yellowish ; a black patch existing towards their posterior re-
gion, without, however, reaching the terminal edge. The nails are
tipped with black. The upper surface of the tail is blackish ; the
rest is of a dull yellow; the same hue which exists over the inguinal
and axillar regions, though blackish maculae may here and there be
observed.
Loc. — Mangsi Island, Philippine Archipelago.
Plate XXXI, fig. 9, represents an upper view of Euchelys macropus,
size of life.
Fig. 10, is an under view of the same animal;
Fig. 11, exhibiting its head in profile.
REMARKS ON THE GENUS HALICHELYS OF FITZINGER.
Wishing to place mere historical facts on record, we will first quote
from the authors :
Testudo unijuibus acuminatis,palmarum plantarumque solitariis, Lixx. Amm. Acad.
I, 1749, 284.
Testudo atra, Lixx. Mus. Adolph. Frider. I, 1754, 50.
The above refer to the young of Chelonia viridis or mydas, as it is
oftentimes called, and which, according to Linnaeus's own statement,
came from the Island of Ascension.
Thalaisochelyt atra, FITZ. in Zool. Ann. Wien Mus. I, 1811, 128.
What has guided Fitzinger in referring Testudo atra, of Linnaeus,
to the genus Thalassochelys, we are at a loss to determine; a promi-
nent trait of the latter genus consisting in the presence of two nails to
either flipper.
Salichelys atra, FITZ. Syst. Kept, i, 1843, 30.
Again, when the same author established his genus HaUchelys, he
evidently entertained the idea that its natural affinities were with
Thahis&ochelys, since these genera follow one another in his System.
CHELONIA.
There is a most striking resemblance between the young Clielonia,
properly so called, and the young Euclielys; so much so, that the
latter has been figured under the name of Cheloniamydas^seep.MS),
and quoted as such by various authors. It may, therefore, also have
been mistaken for Testudo atra.
Walbaum,* in speaking of his Testudo macropus, says explicitly that
there are two claws or nails to either flipper : "Scuto ovato, carinato,
emarginato, sterno gradato, pedibus pinniformibus, maximis, bifariam
unguiculatis."
Could Fitzinger have been guided by the above statement in framing
his genus Halichelys? This might partly account for its association
with Thalassochelys, which has, likewise, two claws to either flipper ;
then again how could he omit mentioning Walbaum's Testudo macro-
pus as a synonym ?
GENUS CHELONIA, BRONGN.
GEN. CHAR. — Head small, anteriorly blunt and rounded ; snout very
obtuse ; jaws robust, with a serrated margin, which is nearly hori-
zontal, the lower jaw being slightly curved upwards at the tip, and
the upper one slightly ernarginated. One pair of frontal plates ;
a vertex plate, and one pair of parietals. A middle occipital,
moderate ; two pairs of latero-occipitals, and one pair of longitudi-
nally elongated postoccipitals. Four postoculars. Mental shields
extant. Sides of lower jaw protected by an elongated" and a few
small plates. Carapax cordate or subelliptical, covered with four-
teen non-imbricated epidermic shields ; marginal shields twenty-five,
constituting a nearly even edge. Plastron with six middle pairs of
similar shields : four lateral, and several small additional postaxil-
lary ones. One claw to either flipper.
SYN. — Chelonia, BRONON. in Bull. Soc. Philom. 1800, 89. — OPPEL, Kept. Prodr.
1811, 8.— Cuv. R6gn. anim. II, 1817, 12 ; 2d ed. II, 1829, 13 ; &, ed. illustr. Kept.
18.— WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 133.— BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. ge"n. II, 1835, 550.
— FITZ. Syst. Kept, i, 1843, 30.— GRAY, in Ann. of Philos. X, 1825, 210 ; Catal. Tort.
Crocod. & Amphisb. Brit. Mus. 1844, 51 & 54 ; &, Catal. Shield. Kept. Brit. Mus.
1855, 74. — TEMM. & SCHLEQ. in Sieb. Faun. Jap. 1838, 12. — BONAP. Amph. Europ.
1839, 12.— AGASS. Contr. Nat. Hist. U. S. Amer. I, 1857, 377.
* Chelonographia ad archetypes natives curiosorum naturae peregrinorum causa latino
stylo strictim exarata.
CHELONIA VIRIDIS. 453
Chelonees /ranches, BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. g£n. II, 1835, 555.
Euchelonia, TSCH. Faun. Peruan. Herp. 1845, 22.
Chcloniae liberae, CANTOR, Catal. Kept. Malay. Penins. 1847, 11.
OBSERV. — This genus is restricted, by modern writers, to the escu-
lent species of the family, those that are most esteemed as an article
of food, and generally known under the name of Green Turtles.
Their shell is too thin to be made any use of in the arts. Labat
states that the West Indies species does not grow as large as the Log-
gerhead of the same localities, it being intermediate in size between
the latter and the " Scaled Tortoise," or " Caret."
Accurate graphic illustrations of Chdonia viridis are still a deside-
ratum. Being the typical species of the genus, figures of the others
can have but a secondary interest in themselves. Had we had an
authentic specimen, from the West Indies, at our command, we might
have enlarged upon the remarks and criticism which we offer further
on, respecting the species that came under our observation.
The references to the " Green Turtle" bearing somewhat upon the
history of its congeners, it was deemed advisable to present them to
our readers according to the plan we have adopted.
1. CHELONIA VIRIDIS, Temm. & Schleg.
OBSERV. — The twelfth chapter, in Vol. I, of Labat's " Voyages aux
Isles de 1'Amerique," is full of vivid information respecting the mode
of catching and use of the Green Turtles of the West Indies.
SYN. — Testudo i-iridis, SCHN. Allg. Naturg. Schildkr. 1783, 309. Tab. n.— LATR.
Hist. nat. Kept. I, 1802, 48.
Testudo mydas, LINN. Syst. Nat. ed. X«, I, 1758, 197 ; &, ed. XII», I, 1766, 350.
— BONNAT. Encycl. meth. Erpet. 1789, 19. PI. in, fig. 2.— Cuv. Tabl. elem. d'hist.
nat. 1798, 288 ; Regn. anim. II, 1817, 13 ; 2d ed. II, 1829, 13 ; &, ed. illustr. Kept.
19.— DACD. Hist. nat. Kept. II, 1805, 10. Tab. xvi, fig. 1. — OPPEL, Kept. Prodr.
1811, 9.
Tettudo viridi-squamosa, BONNAT. Encycl. meth. Erpet. 1789, 20.
Chelonia mydas, SCHW. Prodr. Monogr. Chelon. in Arch. Koenigsb. I, 1812, 291 <t
412.— GRAY, in. Ann. of Philos. X, 1825, 212 ; &, Syn. Kept, in Griff. Anim. Kingd.
IX, 1831, 52.— GRAVENH. Delic. Mus. Zool. Vratisl. I, 1829, 5. Tab. i, fig. 1.—
WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 133. — LESS, in Belany. Voy. Ind. Orient. Zool.
1834, 298.— BUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. II, 1835, 538.— HOLBR. N. Amer. Herp. II,
1842, 25. PI. in.— AOASS. Contr. Nat. Hist. U. S. Amer. I, 1857, 378.
114
TII7BKSITY
CHELONIA.
Oaretta esculenta, MERE. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 18.
Chelonia esculenta, WiEGM. & RUTHE, Handb. Zool. 1832, 164.
Chelonia viridis, TEMM. & SCHLEG. in Sieb. Faun. Jap. 1838, 18. Tab. iv, figs.
4-6 ; &, Tab. vi, figs. 1-2.— GRAY, Catal. Tort. Croc. & Amphisb. Brit. Mus. 1844, 54 ;
&, Catal. Shield. Kept. Brit. Mus. 1, 1855, 75.
Chelonia (Euehelonia) mydas, TSCH. Faun. Peruan. Herp. 1845, 22.
La Tonne franche, DUTERTR. Hist. nat. Antil. II, 1662, 227.— LABAT, Voy. aux
Isles de l'Am6r. I, 1722, 182 & 304.— LACEP. Quadr. Ovip. I, 1788, 54. Fig. 1.—
BONNAT. Encycl. meth. Erpet. 1789, 19. PL in, fig. 2.— Bosc. Nouv. Diet, d'hist.
nat. XXXIV, 1819, 252.
La Tort ue franche ou Tortue verte, Guv. Rega. anim. II, 1817, 13; 2d ed. II,
1829, 13 ; &, ed. illustr. Rept. 19.
Tortue de Her, EDW. Hist. nat. Ois. IV. Tab. ecu.
La Tortue a ecailles vertes, LACEP. Quadr. Ovip. I, 1788, 92. — BONNAT. Encycl.
meth. Erpet. 1789, 20.
Testudo marinis viridis, CATESB. Nat. Hist. Carol. II, 1771, 38. Tab. xxxvni.
Testudinis marinae pullus, SEBA, Thes. nat. I, 1734, 127. Tab. LXIX, fig. 5.
It remains yet to be proved, whether
Testudo j'aponica, THTJNB. Kongl. Vetensk. Acad. nya Handl. VIII, 1787, 178. Tab.
vii.— SCHN. in Schrift. Gesellsch. Naturf. Fr. Berl. X, 266,
Caretta thunberyii, MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 19,
refer to a species identical with that of the West Indies, or whether
it is the one met by Siebold, on the coast of Japan. The figure given
by Thunberg, however, is suggestive of Lepidoclielys olivacea.
Chelonia pseudomy das, LESS, in Belang. Voy. Ind. Orient. Zool. 1834, 299,
is also one of those species requiring to be carefully looked into before
it can be either admitted as distinct, or referred as a synonym to
another.
2. CHELONIA MACULOSA, Cuv.
Appears to be a good species, which may, however, prove closely
related to that of the Japanese Seas.
SYN. — Chelonia maculosa, Cuv. Regn. Anim. 2d ed. II, 1829, 13 ; &, ed. illustr.
Rept. 19.— DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. ge"n, II, 1835, 544.
CHELONIA MARMORATA. 455
But whether
Chelonia lacrymata, Cuv. Regn. anira. 2d ed. II, 1829, 13 ; &, ed. illustr. Kept. 19,
is identical with it, we are not, for the present, prepared to decide.
3. CBELOXIA MAEMORATA, Dum. & Bibr.
(Plate XXXI, figs. 5-7.) .
SPEC. CHAR. — Head rather small ; vertex plate small ; middle occi-
pital large ; postoccipitals moderate. Lowermost and third post-
orbitals larger than the second and uppermost ; the second occa-
sionally subdivided so as to give five postorbital plates. Upper
temporal shield moderate, subequal with the rest, which are smallest
over the tympanum. Carapax subovate, elongated; back quite
arched or convex. Middle vertebral shields longer than broad.
Marginal shields rather large, twenty-five in number.
SYN. — Chelonia marmorata, DUM. & BIBR. Erpet. gen. II, 1835, 546. PI. xxm,
fig. 1.
Chelonia midas, SHAW, Gen. Zool. Ill, I, 1802, 3. TAB. XXII.
OBSERV. — This species is here introduced for the sake of compari-
son with the following one, in order that a certain series of characters
of both could be satisfactorily shown. Space did not permit giving
a figure of the carapax on the accompanying Atlas. In its outline it
differs widely from that of G. formosa; it is more of a subelliptical
form, the back being more arched, the sides steeper, and the periphery
more declivous. The shape of the epidermic shields vary in the same
proportion, since their absolute number is the same in both species ;
the middle dorsal ones are longer than broad.
' The head is a good deal smaller than in G. formosa, and the cepha-
lic plates, though of a similar type, exhibit various modifications cha-
racteristic in either species. The middle occipital, hexagonal in shape,
is the most conspicuous ; the postoccipitals, subtrapezoid, come next,
then the elongated frontals, the subpentagonal parietals, and the irre-
gular latero-occipitals. The vertex plate is the smallest, pentagonal,
narrow posteriorly, and angular in front. There are a few supple-
456
CHBLONIA.
mentary small postoccipitals, resembling more or less the scales scat-
tered over the neck ; two, larger than the rest, are placed in immediate
contiguity with the posterior pair of latero-occipitals and the temporal
shields. The normal number of the postorbital plates is four, though
five may occasionally be seen on one side ; in the latter instance we
found the second subdivided into two. The first or lowermost is
elongated and the largest of its series, sometimes subequal with the
third, which is similarly elongated; the uppermost is the smallest.
The second, when undivided, is intermediate in size between the upper
and the lower.
We will not proceed any further, since the specimens of the following
species lack the plastron, limbs, and neck.
LOG. — The specimen before us was caught in the Atlantic Ocean.
Plate XXXI, fig. 5, represents an upper view of the head of Clielo-
nia marmorata, somewhat reduced in size.
Fig. 6, is a profile ; and,
Fig. 7, an under view of the same region.
4. CHELONIA FORMOSA, Grd.
(Plate XXXI, figs. 1-4.)
CHAR. SPEC. — -Gapite amplissimo ; scuto verticis modico ; occipitali me-
diano parvo ; scutis postoccipitalibus amplissimis. /Scuto postorbitali
inferiori quam tres reliquos subaequales majori. Scuto temporali su-
periori quam reliquos sat amplos majori. Carapace subcordato, latiori;
tergo depressiusculo. /Scutis vertebralibus multo longioribus quam la-
tioribus ; marginalibus modicis, quinque et viginti. Fusca, fulvo vel
olivaceo maculata.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head rather large ; vertex plate moderate ; middle
occipital small ; postoccipitals large. Inferior postorbital larger
than the remaining three, which are subequal. Upper temporal
shield much larger than the rest, which are well developed. Cara-
pax subcordate, broad ; back rather depressed. Vertebral shields
CHELONIA FORMOSA. 457
much longer than broad ; marginal shields moderate, twenty-five
in number. Brown, maculated with yellowish or olive.
DESCR.— >The size of the cephalic plates, as given in the above diag-
nosis, is comparative with the corresponding ones in C. marmorata,
and must be understood as expressing their proportional development
in both species. For, if we enumerate those plates in point of abso-
lute size in the species which is the subject of the present article, the
postoccipitals are the largest of the set ; the middle occipital comes
next in order ; then the parietals, the frontals, and finally the latero-
occipitals.
But to return to each of those plates : they differ greatly in form
from one another. Thus the frontals are elongated, their sides nearly
rectilinear, not to say parallel, for they are somewhat narrower ante-
riorly than posteriorly, in conformity with the general outline of the
snout, which is obtusely subcouical forwards. A diminutive inter-
nasal may be observed at the anterior extremity of the frontal (fron-
tonasal) plates, between their commissure. Posteriorly, the frontals
are obtusely triangular, the inner edge of that triangle admitting the
anterior portion of the vertex plate, whilst the external edge of the
same triangle is contiguous to the parietals. The vertex plate is the
smallest, subhexagonal, elongated ; narrowest posteriorly, where it
emarginates somewhat the anterior edge of the middle occipital; late-
rally it is contiguous to the parietals. The latter are a little wider
than long, obscurely hexagonal, their exterior edge forming with that
of the frontals the upper rim of the orbit. Each parietal is contigu-
ous posteriorly to the upper postorbital and anterior latero-occipital,
and interiorly to the middle occipital, and as already observed, to the
vertex plate itself. The middle occipital is longer than broad, hepta-
gonal, posteriorly acute-angled, anteriorly subconcave upon its conti-
guity with the vertex plate. Its latero-anterior edges are contiguous
to the parietals, laterally to the anterior latero-occipitals, whilst its
posterior acute angle engages between the postoccipitals. The latter
are quite elongated, sublanceolated, broadest posteriorly, subtruncated
behind, and acute-angled in front. Their anterior acute angle engages
between the middle occipital and the- anterior latero-occipitals, whilst
laterally they are contiguous to the posterior latero-occipitals. The
anterior latero-occipitals themselves are obscurely hexagonal, longer
than broad, anteriorly contiguous to the middle occipital and the
115
458
CHELONIA.
parietals, sideways to the postfrontals and upper postorbital, and
behind to the posterior latero-occipitals and uppermost temporal
shield. Finally, the posterior latero-occipitals, subtrapezoid and
broadest behind, with their longest side contiguous to the postorbitals,
are contiguous anteriorly to the anterior latero-occipitals, and ex-
teriorly to the temporal shields. An accessory pair of acutely trian-
gular latero-occipitals may be seen pointing towards the postorbitals,
contiguous by their longest side to the posterior latero-occipitals, their
base being directed towards the temporal shields.
The posterior rim of the orbit is formed by four plates, the three
upper ones subequal, subangular, rather longer than broad; the lower-
most, much longer than broad, and the largest of the set, extends as
far under the orbit as the middle of the latter aperture. The remain-
ing portion of the inferior rim of the orbit is formed by the maxillary
shield. We have already stated that the upper rim was formed by
the edges of the frontal and parietal plates.
The temporal shields (or plates) are irregularly angular, unequal,
and variously shaped. The two anterior ones, placed in contiguity
with the three upper postorbitals, are the largest, and larger also than
the postorbitals themselves. The lowermost, placed immediately
behind the inferior postorbital, is next in size, elongated, and subequal
with the upper and posterior one, which is contiguous superiorly to
the posterior latero-occipital plates. Over the tympanum they are
moderate-sized, and smallest towards the articulation of the lower
jaw. The latter exhibits a large and elongated shield, along its
branch, and two small ones towards its articulation. There is also a
series of narrow and elongated submaxillary shields, which are some-
what injured upon the prepared specimen before us. The mental
shields were removed in the preparation.
The neck and limbs were not preserved ; neither was the plastron.
The carapax is subcordiform, broad across the middle region, and some-
what contracted upon the pectoral region. The back is rounded,
slightly ridged. We observe the usual number of epidermic shields ;
five vertebral ones, and four on either side. The three middle dorsal
shields are much longer than broad, whilst the first and fifth are
broader than long; hence, differently shaped, the fifth much larger
than the first. The marginal shields are of moderate development,
and twenty-five in number. The periphery of the carapax is undu-
lating upon its posterior half, instead of being narrow and even, as in
CHELOXIA TENUIS. 459
G. maculosa. Its anterior margin, immediately above the neck, is
but very slightly concave; the same is the case immediately above the
anterior limbs.
In the young, the dorsal shields are proportionally shorter, com-
pared to their width. The general outline of the carapax does not
differ from that of the adult.
The ground color is yellowish-olive, shaded with brown ; but this
tint appears distinctly on the neck, breast, shoulder, and tail only.
The plates which protect the head and the limbs are of a dark black-
ish-brown, with the very edge alone yellowish. The carapax is densely
mottled, clouded, or marmorated, with black and brown, interspersed
with whitish or yellowish specks, the remnants of the ground color.
The snout and the portion of the jaws not covered by the plates are
reddish-brown, a tint which may likewise be traced along the periphery
of the carapax, the ciliary and supraciliary edges being yellowish.
LOG. — Feejee Islands. — " This species, together with the following
(Caretta rostratd), seems to be most frequent about the extensive reefs
to the leeward of the principal islands. We saw them principally in
pairs, at Muthuata. As an article of food, both are used indiscrimi-
nately."— (Note-book Expl. Exped.)
Plate XXXI, fig. 1, represents Chelonia formosa, in profile, reduced.
Fig. 2, is an outline of the carapax, seen from above.
Fig. 3, an upper view of the head ; and,
Fig. 4, a side-view of the same region.
5. CHELONIA TENUIS, Grd.
(Plate XXXI, fig. 8.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Carapace subcordiformi, elongaio, per transversum tfio-
racis quam pelvis angu-itiori. Tergo depresso. Scutis vertebralibus
subaequaUbus, subrliombr>ideis, aeqite latis ac longis, aut latioribus
quam longioribus. &utis marginaUbus septem et viginti. Fulva et
oUvacea, fiisco et niyro maculata.
SPEC. CHAR. — Carapax subcordiform, elongated, narrower across the
pectoral region than across the pelvis. Back depressed. Vertebral
CHELONIA.
shields subequal, subrhomboid ; as broad as long, else broader than
long. Marginal shields twenty-seven in number. Yellow and olive,
maculated with brown and black.
OBSEBV. — -The carapax, an outline of which is subjoined, is all that
we at present know of this species. Nothing would have proved more
interesting than the head and flippers of a turtle apparently so re-
markable. Its frame is lightly built ; the bones and horny shield be-
ing very thin, contrasting strangely with that of Ckelonia formosa and
Caretta rostrata, with which it is associated, amongst the Polynesian
or Coral Islands.
The anterior edge is subconcave, the odd marginal shield quite nar-
row and transversely elongated; the next two pairs being the smallest
of the series. The posterior pair is longer than broad. The third
vertebral shield is the narrowest of the series; this, however, may
not prove a constant character. The dorsal region itself is depressed ;
the sides gradually sloping towards the periphery, which is nearly
even, slightly undulated posteriorly. The thoracic region is narrower
across its middle than the pelvic region.
The coloration consists of an admixture of brown, black, yellow,
and olive, so as to assume a marmorated appearance.
The following remarks we copy from the " Note-book" of the Expe-
dition, under the head of Rosa Island :
"Several individuals were seen, and one captured, viz., a young
male. Their trails were frequent in the sand, to the upper part of the
beach, visited apparently for the purpose of depositing their eggs ; but
none of the latter were discovered, though careful search was made.
In the shallow part of the lagoon I had an opportunity of witnessing
the speed with which they travel in the water, and was surprised to
find them to all appearances quite a match for the shark in this re-
spect. The one captured had the alimentary canal crowded with sea-
weeds (the Caulerpa, seen at Raraka), and I am at a loss to imagine
where a sufficient supply of this substance can be procured, unless at
considerable depth. This may also account for the general scarcity of
these animals among these islands where marine vegetables are so
rare."
Under the head of Honden Island, we likewise read :
" Two specimens observed near the surf were females, and had very
short tails. A male had the tail seventeen inches long, and was found
TESTUDINATA. 461
half way to the beach, a fore and hind flipper chopped off by the
sharks, and it was supposed that it had remained ashore to keep out
of their way. A fourth specimen, found in the same situation, had a
hole bitten out of its side. They were frequently seen swimming from
the boats, and probably numbers might have been taken by remaining
a night on the island. There is here no vegetable food for them, un-
less the plants on shore, which did not appear to be cropped."
Loc. — Honden Island, Paumotu Group ; Tahiti and Eimeo ; Rosa
Island.
Plate XXXI, fig. 8, represents an outline, seen from above, of the
carapax of Clielonia tennis, considerably reduced in size.
SUB.ORDO II. TESTUDINATA.
The representatives of this group inhabit either dry land, marshy
districts, or fresh waters. Their body is generally depressed, broader
than deep, rounded, elliptical, or ovate in its outline, which is either
even, or variously serrated or emarginated, and covered with epidermic
or horny scales, or a soft skin. The plastron is broad, or narrow; im-
movable, or movable either upon its anterior or posterior half, or both
ways at the same time. There are four limbs, an anterior and a poste-
rior pair, subequal, moderate in length, slender or stout, and more or
less retractile. The hands and feet are club-shaped, palmated, or senii-
palmated, the fingers and toes being always movable, terminated in
part or in totality by blunt nails or acerated claws, which vary from
three to five. The tail is conical, tapering, long or short.
The head is subquadrangular or subcircular across the orbits, pro-
tected with plates, or covered with a naked skin; the snout being
pointed or abbreviated. The neck is retractile or simply contractile ;
generally naked, exhibiting sometimes membranous flaps or appen-
dages, and occasionally covered with scales. The eyes, as a general
feature, are large, and in a few instances, quite small, compared to the
size of the animal. The nostrils are anterior, quite approximated.
The food of the Testudinata consists of animal and vegetable sub-
stances, according to the genera and species.
116
462
CHELONIA.
The species of this group are of small or moderate size, with a few
exceptions, such as the " Galapagos Turtle" amongst the terrestrial
tribe, and the " Soft>shelled Turtle" amongst the fluviatile. Some of
them are esculent, hence useful to man ; their eggs are likewise es-
teemed, and sought after for the table.
. — Testudinata, KLEIN, Quadr. disp. 1751. — OPP. Keptil. Prodr. 1811, 4, 8. —
MERE. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 17.— FITZ. Neue Class. Kept. 1826, 5.— BELL, Zool.
Journ. Ill, 1828, 419 & 513.— BONAP. Sagg. Distr. Anim. vertebr. 1831, 70.— TSCH.
Faun. Peruan. Herp. 1845, 21.— LEC. in Proc. Acad. nat. Sci. Philad. VII, 1854.
Testudines, WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 133.
Amydae, OPP. Reptil. Prodr. 1811, 4, 6, & 9.— AGASS. Contr. Nat. Hist. U. S. Amer.
I, 1857, 249 & 310.
Diyitata, MERR. Tent. Syst. Amph. 1820, 20.— BELL, Zool. Journ. Ill, 1828, 513.
Steganopoda, WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 133.— FITZ. Syst. Kept, i, 1843, 29.
Tylopoda, WAGL. Naturl. Syst. Amph. 1830, 138.— FITZ. Syst. Kept. i, 1843, 29.
OBSERV. — The name of Testudinata is used by the authors quoted
above to designate the entire group of Chelonians. None, that we are
aware, have restricted it exclusively to the fresh-water and land spe-
cies, as here proposed, although the latter have occasionally appeared
first on their list.
FAM. HYDRASPEDES.
In the " Day-book" of the Expedition, we read, under the heading
of Southeast Australia, the following brief remark regarding a species
of this family, the specimens of which appear to have been lost, since
none were found in the collection, as it came into our hands.
" Platemys macquaria, small, the neck not retractile but flexed to
one side, and not of unusual length. Disposition inoffensive. Kept
in water at Mr. McLeay's."
Now, Platemys macquaria, DUM. & BIBB. Erpet. ge"n. II, 1835, 438,
is made the type of the genus Chelywys in the " Catal. of Tort.
Crocod. & Amphisb. in the Collect, of the Brit. Mus. 1844, 42,"
where the other synonyms may be found. Consult likewise the
"Catalogue of Shield. Reptiles, in the collection of the British
Museum. Part 1. Testudinata. 1855, 57."
EMYDIDAE. 453
FAM. EMYDIDAE.
The head is widest across the temporal region ; it tapers towards
the rostrum, which is generally truncated. The carapax is quite
arched in the direction of both its length and width, it being deepest
and broadest upon its middle, and declivous anteriorly and poste-
riorly. The plastron or lower surface is very broad and flattened.
The point of union between the carapax and plastron is sloping in-
wardly downwards, the free edges of both the carapax and plastron
projecting considerably beyond the body.
The limbs are rather stoutly built, though not constructed to sup-
port the body. The toes are quite variable, according to the pecu-
liarities of habits : long and broadly webbed in such as live mostly in
water ; short and scarcely webbed in those that are more frequently
found on dry land.
The carapax is composed of eight vertebral plates, attached to the
united vertebrae, of two independent plates, and on each side of eight
costal plates. Its periphery consists of twenty-four plates, eleven
lateral pairs and two odd ones, one in front, the other behind. The
plastron, which is either hinged or immovable, consists of nine plates,
four pairs and an odd one ; the second and third pairs constituting the
points of union to the carapax.
The exterior surface of both the carapax and plastron exhibits large
epidermic scales, the disposition of which varies somewhat according
to the genera.
Most species of this family resort more or less to the waters in
marshes and pools, along the edges of ponds or still streams ; the
group of Ci-studinina alone being exclusively terrestrial.
The average size of the species varies, within considerable limits,
from four to fifteen inches in total length.
They are harmless and inoffensive, feeding on insects and worms,
and vegetable substances also : captives, they will eat various kinds of
fruits and berries.
They lay a variable number of eggs, on dry land, in holes, which
they dig with their hind limbs. The eggs are elongated and elliptical,
the shells of which are not brittle, but rather flexible, and less calca-
reous than in the other families.
464
CHELONIA.
SYS.—Emydidae, BELL, in Zool. Journ. II, 1825, 302 ; &, III, 1828, 514.— GRAY, in
Ann. of Philos. X, 1825, 210 ; Catal. Tort. Crocod. & Amphisb. Brit. Mus. 1844, 13 ;
&, Catal. Shield. Kept. Brit. Mus. I, 1855, 14.
Emydoidea, FITZ. Neue Class. Kept. 1826, 6.
Emydae, GRAY, Synops. Kept, in Griff. Anim. Kingd. IX, 1831, 17 ; &, Proc. Zool.
Soc. Loud. 1847, 55.— WIEGM. Handb. Zool. 1832, 166.— FITZ. Syst. Kept, i, 1843, 29.
Emydoidae, AQASS. Contr. Nat. Hist. U. S. Amer. I, 1857, 351.
OBSERV. — The characters of this family, as given above, are chiefly
derived from Agassiz's " Contributions to the Natural History of the
United States of America." We do not vouch their accuracy, since
we have no collection of turtles at our command at the present time,
and thus unable to make any comparative study of the various families
and subfamilies, which he has recently adopted and partly established
for the first time in the work just referred to.
SUBFAM. CLEMMYDIDAE.
The species of this group are generally speaking of small size, their
body being very much arched though elongated, and their plastron
immovable. The limbs being rather compact, subequal, and the toes
but slightly webbed. In habits rather less aquatic than those of the
other subfamilies.
SYX.— Clemmydoidae, AdAss. Contr. Nat. Hist. U. S. Amer. I, 1857, 356 & 442.
OBSERV. — This is one of the five subfamilies into which the family
of Emydidae is subdivided by Prof. Agassiz. The character of the
arched body appears to us quite negative, for, in one of the specimens
now before us, the carapax is very much depressed, compared to its
length and width.
GENUS ACTINEMYS, AQASS.
GEN. CHAR.— Skin of the head smooth, scaleless; on the chin and occi-
put rumpled ; on the neck and throat coarsely granular or tubercular
in the young, whilst granules or scale-like tubercles are observed in
ACTINEMYS MARMORATA. 455
the adult; groins scaleless also; rest of the limbs scaly; five fingers
and four toes, clawed, palinated to the base of the nails. Tail
slender and tapering, protected by large quadrangular plates. Out-
line of carapax subelliptical, anteriorly subconcave, posteriorly
notched, with a vertebral bony ridge. Surface of the bones rugose,
granular or striated ; epidermis smooth in the adult. Anterior
edge of the plastron rectilinear ; posterior edge broadly angular.
STN. — Actinemys, AOASS. Contr. Nat. Hist. U. S. Amer. I, 1857, 444.
OBSERV. — For the above generical diagnosis, we alone must be held
responsible, since the genus is anything but characterized by its author,
in the work we have just quoted. The margin of the upper jaw, gene-
rally straight in the young, is rather convexly curved in the adult,
and the notch at its anterior extremity may be observed in other
genera. The radiating and granular striae, which are observed upon
the scales in the young, are not altogether peculiar to it, for they may
be found to a greater or less degree not only in Testudo tabulata, but
in several of the genera occurring within the limits of North America.
Moreover, these striae not only affect the scales, but may be observed
upon the bony plates, constituting the carapax itself, the scales merely
reflecting a structure which primarily belongs to the plates alluded
to. By removing the scales, the surface of these bones will exhibit
traces of that structure, even in the adult, although the scales may
assume a perfectly smooth appearance.
ACTINEMYS MARMORATA (Ag.), Grd.
(Plate XXXII.)
CHAR. SPEC. — Carapace elliptico vel subelliptico plus minusve convexo,
carina vertebrali ossea obtusa. Sterno subellipsoideo, antroreum quam
retrorsum latiori. Henibris squamosis ; squamis in facie anteriori
magnis, non imbricatis, in facie posteriori modicis, subtuberculosis.
Unguibus robustioribus. Cauda supra carinata, subconica et minu-
ente. Supra plerumque fusco-olivacea, nigro marmorata ; infra
flavescente, in adulto unicolori, in juniore vero per abdominis re-
gionem nir/ra.
117
466
CHELONIA.
SPEC. CHAR. — Carapax elliptical or subelliptical, more or less convex,
with an obtuse vertebral bony ridge. Plastron subellipsoid, broader
anteriorly than posteriorly. Limbs scaly ; scales, on their anterior
aspect, large, not imbricated ; on the posterior aspect, moderate,
subtubercular. Nails rather stout. Tail superiorly keeled, subconi-
cal, and tapering. Generally olive-brown above, mottled with black ;
beneath yellowish, unicolor in the adult, abdominal region black in
the young.
SYN. — Emys marmorata, B. & G. in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VI, 1852, 177.
Emys nigra, HALLOA, in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. VII, 1854, 91 ; &, in U. S. Pacif.
R. R. Expl. & Surv. VII, 1858, Rept. p. 3. PI. I.— GRAY, Oatal. Shield Rept. Brit.
Mus. 1, 1855, 77.
Actinemys marmorata, AOASS. Contr. Nat. Hist. U. S. Amer. I, 1857, 444 ; &, II,
PI. in, figs. 5-8.
OBSERV. — When, on a former occasion, we described this species, it
was placed provisionally in the genus Emys. A specimen of it having
been submitted to Prof. Agassiz's inspection, in anticipation of our own
final investigations, the result was the establishment of the genus Acti-
nemys, under which heading it is here recorded.
It is much to our regret that we cannot enter, at present, into a
thorough study of its characters, as derived from adult specimens;
since those we possess are all immature, save two dried up carapaces,
one of which wants the head and limbs, and the specimens belonging
to the Museum of the Smithsonian Institution are not available until
Prof. Agassiz shall have completed his descriptions of the same.
.^-The carapax, when viewed from above, is subelliptical in
its outline, narrower upon the thoracic region in the male (fig. 2)
than in the female (fig. 1). In the young, some are nearly circular,
whilst others exhibit already the peculiar subelliptical form which is
observed in the adult, only more regularly so than in the male. We
should not be surprised hearing that the subcircular ones are the
females, and the subelliptical, the males. As the latter grow up, the
abdominal or posterior half of the plastron dilates somewhat at the ex-
pense of the anterior or thoracic half. The anterior margin is some-
what concave above the neck, and angularly emarginated posteriorly,
opposite the base of the tail. A bony and quite obtuse ridge may
be observed along the vertebral line, almost equally developed in both
ACTINEMYS MARMORATA. 457
sexes, and scarcely more prominent in the young than in the adult.
Differences are also observed in the depth of the body, some indivi-
duals, we believe to be female, being much deeper than others, which
we take as being the males. The same differences in the depth do
not hold good in the young, for amongst the latter we find the sub-
circular ones more depressed than those which have a subelliptical
shape.
In the young, the periphery of the carapax is gently sloping on the
sides as well as anteriorly and posteriorly, whilst in the adult, it is
much steeper upon the middle of the sides, rather more plane ante-
riorly, very steep behind, and somewhat raised up on the sides of the
pelvic region. As to the very margin itself, it is nearly even, slight
indentations being observed at the junction of the scales.
The scales on the back are : five vertebral ones, four on either side,
and twenty-five upon the periphery. The same number may be ob-
served in various genera and species : hence, neither generic nor specific
characters can be derived from it, although their form and proportions
may, to a certain extent, assist in the discrimination of the species.
The three middle vertebral scales are subhexagonal, broader than
long, considerably more so in the young than in the adult, as ex-
hibited by the accompanying figures. The anterior and posterior
scales of the same series are pentagonal, unequal, broader than long
in the young, whilst in the adult, the length increases at the expense
of the width. The lateral scales, constituting four pairs, are broader
anteriorly than posteriorly : the two middle pairs being much higher
compared to their width than the other two.
The peripheral scales are twelve pairs, varying in size, and an odd,
rather exiguous one, situated upon the middle line, at the anterior
margin. The smallest pair are observed on the sides of the thoracic
region, and the largest on the sides of the pelvic region.
The surface of the epidermis is, at first, wholly and minutely granu-
lar (figs. 13 & 14) ; degree by degree, as the growth proceeds, the granu-
lar surface recedes from the periphery of each scale, towards its centre;
the smooth zone, abandoned by the granules, exhibiting fine radiating
striae, and, when the growth is completed, the entire surface of the
epidermis is perfectly smooth. The bony surface underneath remains
more or less rugose and reticulated.
The plastron is broad and subelliptical in its general outline, and
overlapped by the carapax. When considered, however, in its detail,
468
CHELONIA.
the anterior margin will be found truncated, and its pectoral sides
regularly rounded; its junction with the carapax is shelving inwardly
downwards ; its abdominal region is rounded also, whilst the pelvic
region is angular, tapering posteriorly, with the hind margin angu-
larly and broadly emarginated, apparently less so, however, in the
male than in the female. Its middle region, in the male, is subcon-
cave, or, at least, flat, whilst it is subconvex or somewhat bulging in
the female : a feature more or less common to Testudinata at large.
There are six pairs of shields over its surface : the anterior pair being
the smallest ; the posterior pair is the next in size, and subequal with
the second pair. As to the surface of the epidermis of this region, it
is smooth throughout.
The head is of moderate size, subquadrangularly ovoid, the anterior
aspect of the snout being shelving inwardly downwards. The nostrils
are anterior, closely approximated, and situated at the upper region of
the declivity of the rostrum. The margin of the upper jaw being
emarginated or rather notched anteriorly, whilst its branches are
either straight or somewhat convex. The lower jaw is very strong
upon its symphysis, curved upwards at the apex, which is rather acute
(fig. 6). The eyes are large ; the lids thick and fleshy, with a horny,
thickened edge, obliquely inclined backwards. The tympanum is
subelliptical, obliquely inclined backwards, and situated immediately
above the angle of the mouth. The skin of the upper surface and
sides of the head is smooth and scaleless ; that of the chin, neck,
and shoulders is variously rumpled, subgranular in the young, and
tubercular in the adult.
The limbs are rather stout, though not unusually long ; when the
anterior pair is stretched backwards, the tips of the nails reach the
posterior edge of the bony arch, which unites the plastron to the cara-
pax, whilst the posterior pair, in being extended forwards, brings the
tips of its nails to the anterior edge of the same arch. The arms and
forearms are protected by unequal and non-imbricated scales, much
larger on their anterior than on their posterior aspects. A somewhat
larger, cross series, may be observed under the carpus. Over the palm
of the hands, they are rounded, and much smaller towards the base
of the nails and under the web. The upper surface of the fingers ex-
hibits rather large transverse plates. The nails, five in number, being
quite acute.
The skin at the inguinal regions is smooth and scaleless ; the ante-
ACTIXEMYS MARMORATA. 469
rior aspect of the thighs and knees, and the inferior aspect of the legs,
exhibit scale-like tubercles, while the rest of their surface is tuber-
cular; more coarsely over the thighs and legs than over the tarsi, the
soles, and the web; on the upper surface of the toes are large and trans-
verse plates. The nails, four in number, are curved and very acute.
The tail is slender and tapering, compressed in the young and seem-
ingly longer than in the majority of the North American Testudmata,
judging of it from the illustrations accompanying the second volume
of the "Contributions to the Natural History of the United States
of America." Five longitudinal series of subquadrangular plates
may be observed, protecting its surface from the base to the apex,
although around the base, which is thicker, there are five addi-
tional, intervening, short, and tapering series. They are more deve-
loped in the transversal than in the longitudinal direction. There is
an upper series, exhibiting a ridge along its middle, a lateral series
which is smooth, as well as two inferior series. In the young, the
plates at the base of that organ, being rather convex or elevated,
assume a tubercular or nodulous appearance.
The color assumes various shades from green to black. The speci-
men represented in fig. 1 is deep chestnut-brown, and that in fig. . 2,
light greenish above, both being reticulated with black : the black
lines alluded to corresponding to the rugosities of the bones beneath
the epidermis. The plastron is uniformly dark brown in the former,
and light olive in the latter, with the commissures of the scales black.
In the young, figured on the same plate, the upper surface of the
carapax is olive-brown, marmorated with black, whilst the inferior
surface of its projecting edge, as well as the plastron, is yellowish, with
black along the commissures of the scales. In some of the smallest
specimens, the middle region of the plastron is entirely black, a hue
which is gradually disappearing as the growth proceeds, at least upon
the specimens from Puget Sound, now before us. It appears, how-
ever, that in some instances, the black predominates at the exclusion
of any other sha'des : such appear to be the specimens which suggested
Emys nigra.
The head, neck, limbs, and tail are greenish-olive, or yellow, varie-
gated with black ; the upper surface of the head being speckled, the
chin and neck lineolated, and the limbs spotted. Two narrow streaks,
sometimes united into a broader one, and more conspicuous than the rest,
are observed extending from the tympanum to the sides of the neck.
118
470 CHELONIA.
Loc. — Puget Sound (Oregon), and Sacramento River (California).
Plate XXXII, fig. 1, represent the outline, half from above and
half from below, of a female specimen, from Sacramento River, Cali-
fornia.
Fig. 2, a similar outline of a male individual, from Puget Sound,
Oregon.
Figs. 3-15, exhibit a series of views taken from young specimens,
collected about Puget Sound also, in order to show their relative pro-
portions of length, width, and depth, as well as the granules and ridges
of the carapax ; and the sternum also, in order to give a correct idea
of the general appearance of the species throughout the various stages
of its growth.
All these figures are drawn the size of life.
FAM. TESTUDINIDAE.
This family includes the "Land Tortoises," properly so called. The
scanty materials of this group now at our command, will not permit
us entering into anything like details, whether historical or structural.
GENUS TESTUDO, LINN.
GEN. REM. — This genus has been subdivided by modern writers,
and, we believe, with great propriety. Their limits, however, have
not, as yet, been properly defined, hence the impracticability of refer-
ring the following species to its proper natural group.
TESTUDO AUSTRALIS, Grd.
CHAR. SPEC. — Capite amplissimo et depressissimo ; maxillis anlice obtusis.
Scuti-s marginalibus quinque et viginti; scuto nucliali parvissimo. Tergo
depresso; scutis vertebralibus secundo et tertio quam reliquos mojoribus,
transverse elongatis. Supra nigrescente, fuho-fusco maculata; infra
fulvo-fusca, nigro maculata.
SPEC. CHAR. — Head rather large and quite depressed ; jaws anteriorly
TEST U DO AUSTRAL IS. 471
rounded. Marginal shields twenty-five; nuchal shield very small.
Back depressed ; second and third dorsal shields larger than the rest,
transversely elongated. Above blackish, maculated with yellowish-
brown; beneath, yellowish-brown, maculated with blackish.
OBSERV. — The " Day-book" of the Expedition thus speaks, in refer-
ence to the present species: " A small tortoise was brought us 'from
the woods' by a native. It seemed to be well known to others, and
was called by them ' Nalala.' '
The erpetologist of the Expedition supposed it to be a young of the
"Galapagos Tortoise," which, he states, was kept in captivity at the
Bay of Islands (New Zealand), in the neighborhood of which the spe-
cimen has been found. Upon comparing it, however, with the Gala-
pagos tortoise, it became very evident that it did not agree with it,
either specifically or generically, at least in the restricted sense we
now understand genera.
The anterior feet are compressed, and not plantigrade, a character
recently assigned exclusively to the genus Xerobates* The width of
the head, across the temples, is another trait which it has in common
with the latter genus. The plastron is immovable, and its anterior
extremity alone is curved upwards; the posterior extremity being
quite horizontal.
DESCR. — The body of the specimen before us is ten inches long, seven
inches wide, and three and a half inches deep.
The head is large and subtriangular, an inch and three-quarters
wide across the temples. It is very much depressed ; its upper sur-
face being nearly plane. The snout is rather thick, elevated, and
abrupt, though anteriorly rounded. The edge of the upper jaw is
slightly arched, whilst that of the lower one is horizontal ; both being
denticulated, or rather serrated. The alveolar grooves of the upper
jaw are continuous anteriorly, whilst those of the lower jaw do not
meet at the symphysis of these bones.
A pair of frontals and a vertex plate are quite large ; the rest of
the surface of the head is covered with moderate and polygonal plates.
That portion of the jaws not covered by the horny sheath is likewise
* Contributions to the Natural History of the United States of North America, 1, 1857,
446.
472
C H E L 0 N I A.-
plated. The supra-tympanic plates are rather well developed. Under
the head, over the chin, they are small, subequal, and rounded, whilst
those covering the neck, shoulders, and axillae, are very minute,
and reduced to mere dermic indurations. They are, again, quite large
and unequal, rounded or polygonal, on the anterior aspect of the fore-
limbs, as likewise on the external half of their posterior aspects;
whilst they are moderate on the inner half of the same surface, under
the palms and over the carpi ; the nails being robust and well deve-
loped. On the posterior aspect of the thighs, under the soles of the
feet, and over the tail, the plates are larger than on the rest of the
surface of the hind limbs, and about the groins. The nails are less
developed than at the anterior limbs.
The dorsal region is quite depressed ; the area covered by the second
and third dorsal shields is almost plane. The anterior margin of the
carapax is nearly straight; the sides are rounded and the lumbar
region quite convex. The anterior dorsal shield is the smallest ; the
fifth is the next in size ; the second and third are the largest, and
more developed transversely than the rest. The posterior pair of
costal shields is the smallest, and the second and third largest. There
are twenty-four marginal shields; eleven pairs and two odd ones, a
nuchal and a caudal one. The nuchal shield is very small, trans-
versely subelliptical ; the caudal shield is largest transversely than
any of the others, and its free edge is perfectly even and not in-
curved. The fifth and six pairs are much higher than all the rest,
and somewhat inclined backwards, as in the North American Gopher.
As already stated, the anterior extremity alone of the plastron is
curved upwards. The gular pair of shields are rather projecting and
rounded upon their free edge. The posterior extremity of the plastron
is horizontal and deeply emarginated beneath the tail. The axillary
plate is elongated, subtrapezoid ; the inguinal plates subtriangular :
both being quite developed.
The head, neck, limbs, and tail, are blackish ; the carapax is
blackish-brown obscurely maculated with yellowish-brown ; the plas-
tron is yellowish-brown, maculated with blackish-brown.
Loc. — Bay of Islands, New Zealand.
LIST OF PLATES.
Plate I, figs. 1-8. TARICHA TOROSA, Gray.
" 9-17. XlPHONURA TENEBROSA, G.
" 18-25. HEREDIA OREGONENSIS, G.
" 26-33. ANAIDES LUGUBRIS, Bd.
Plate n, figs. 1-6. RANA AURORA, B. & G.
" 7-12. RANA MARITIMA, RlSSO.
" 13-18. RANA PRETIOSA, B. & G.
" 19-24. RANA DRAYTONI, B. & G.
Plate III, figs. 1-6. LEPTODACTYLCS OCELLATUS, G.
" 7-12. RANOIDEA RESPLEXDENS, G.
" 13-18. HYLA REGILLA, B. & G.
" 19-23. CYSTIGNATHUS NEBULOSUS, G.
" 24-28. HYLODES PARVUS, G.
" 29-33. WAGLERIA PERONI, G.
" 34-38. CYSTIGNATHUS PARVULUS, G.
" 39-43. RANIDELLA SIGNIFERA, G.
Plate IV, figs. 1-6. HALOPHILA HEROS, G.
" 7-11. HALOPHILA VITIENSIS, G.
" 12-16. HALOPHILA DORSUALIS, G.
" 17-22. ELOSIA VOMERINA, G.
" 23-27. ELOSIA BUFONIUM, G.
" 28-32. PLEURODEMA ELEGANS, Bell.
" 33-38. PLEURODEMA BIBRONI, Tsch.
" 39-43. ELOSIA NASUTA, Tsch.
Plate V, figs. 1-3. BUFO MARINUS, Schn.
" 4-9. BUFO COLUMBIENSIS, B. & G.
" 10-14. BUFO MELAXOSTICTUS, Schn.
" 15-19. BUFO THAUL, Less.
" 20-24. BRACHYCEPHALUS AURANTIACUS, G.
119
474
LIST OP PLATES.
Plate VI, figs. 1-3. BUFO MARINUS, Schn.
" 4-9. BUFO BOREAS, IB. & G.
" 10-15. BUFO LUOUBROSUS, G.
" 16-21. BUFO GRACILIS, G.
Plate VII, figs. 1-7. WENONA PLUMBEA, B. & G.
" 8-14. WENONA ISABELLA, B. & G.
Plate VIII, figs. 1-7. PITUOPHIS CATENIFER, B. & G.
" 8-11.* CERBERUS BOAEFORMIS, Dum. & Bibr.
" 12-19. BASCANION VETUSTUS, B. & G.
Plate IX, figs. 1-7. PITUOPHIS WILKESI, B. & G.
" 8-11. LODIA TENUIS, B. & G.
Plate X, figs. 1-5. DOLIOPHIS FLAVICEPS, G.
" 6-12. CONTIA MITIS, B. & G.
Plate XI, figs. 1-6. LIOPHIS MEHREMI, Wagl.
" 7-10. CANTORIA VIOLACEA, G.
" 11-16. SlBYNON NEBULATUS, Fitz.
Plate XII, figs. 1-6. CALLIRHINUS PATAGONIENSIS, G.
" 7-11. DENDROPHIS PRASINUS, G.
Plate XIII, figs. 1-6. TROPIDONOTUS JUNCEUS, Cantor.
" 7-13. EUTAENIA LEPTOCEPHALA, B. & G.
" 14-20. EUTAENIA PICKERINGI, B. & G.
Plate XIV, figs. 1-4. EUTAENIA ORDINOIDES, B. & G.
" 5-10. EUTAENIA VAGRANS, B. & G.
" 11-16. EUTAENIA INFERNALIS, B. & G.
Plate XV, figs. 1-6. CROTALUS LUCIFER, B. & G.
" 7-9. SABRINA TESSELLATA, G.
Plate XVI, figs. 1-8. GEHYRA VORAX, G.
" 9-16. GEKKO INDICUS, G.
" 17-26. NAULTINUS PUNCTATUS, Gray.
Plate XVII, figs. 1-7. PROCTOTRETUS SPLENDIDUS, G.
" 8-14. EULAEMUS DARWINI, G.
" 15-21. ORTHOLAEMUS BEAGLII, G.
" 22-28. PTYCHODEIRA GRACILIS, G.
* h is by inadvertence that these figures are quoted under the heading of ENYGRUS BIBHONI, p. 1 1 1.
LIST OF PLATES. 475
Plate XVIII, figs. 1-7. TEIUS TEGUIXIN, Schinz.
" 8-9. BRACHYLOPHUS FASCIATUS, Cuv.
" 10-16. HOPLODACTYLUS POMARII, (1.
Plate XIX, figs. 1-7. SCELOPORUS FRONTALIS, B. & G.
" 8-14. SCELOPORUS OCCIDENTALS, B. & <i.
" 15-21. SCELOPORUS UNDULATUS, Wiegm.
Plate XX, figs. 1-9. SCELOPORUS GRACILIS, B. & G.
" 10-13. BATRACHOSOMA CORONATUM, Fitz.
Plate XXI, figs. 1-5. TAPAYA DOUGLASSI, G.
" 6-9. PHRYNOSOMA CORNUTUM, Gray.
' Plate XXII, figs. 1-8. ELGARIA GRANDIS, B. & G.
" 9-16. ELGARIA PRINCIPIS, B. ,k ( ; .
Plate XXIII, figs. 1-9. ELGARIA SCIXCICAUDA, B. i < ..
" 10-17. ELGARIA FORMOSA, B. & G.
Plate XXIV, figs. 1-8. LACERTA MADERENSIS, Fitz.
" 9-16. DIPLODACTVLUS viTTATUS, Gray.
" 17-24. DORYURA VULPECULA, G.
" 25-32. HETERONOTA PELAGICA, G.
Plate XXV, figs. 1-8. ASCALABOTES DELALAXDII, Fitz.
" 9-16. HEMIDACTYLUS MABUIA, Cuv.
" 17-24. HEMIDACTYLUS CYANODACTYLUS, G.
" 25-32. DISCODACTYLUS PHACOPHORUS, Tsch.
Plate XXVI, figs. 1-8. EUPREPIS VEXU&TUS, G.
" 9-16. CYCLODINA AENEA, G.
" 17-24. CRYPTOBLEPHARUS PLAGIOCEPHALUS, G.
" 25-32. CRYPTOBLEPHARUS EXIMIUS, G.
Plate XXVII, figs. 1-8. LYGOSOMELLA AESTUOSA, G.
" 9-16. OLIGOSOMA ZELANDICUM, G.
" 17-24. HOMBRONIA UNDOSA, G.
" 25-32. HOMBRO.MA FASCIOLARIS, G.
Plate XXVIII, figs. 1-8. SAOCODEIRA ORNATISSIMA, G.
" 9-16. EULAEMUS TEXUIS, G.
" 17-25. LIOLAEMUS NITIDUS, Gravenh.
" 26-33. KHYTIDODEIRA OXVCEPHALA, G.
Plate XXIX. THALASSOCHELYS CORTICATA, G.
LIST OP PLATES.
Plate XXX, figs. 1-7. CARETTA SQUAMOSA, G.
" 8-13. CARETTA ROSTRATA, G-.
Plate XXXI, figs. 1-4. CHELONIA FORMOSA, G.
" 5-7. CHELONIA MARMORATA, Dum. & Bibr.
" 8. CHELONIA TENTJIS, G.
" 9-11. EUCHELYS MACROPUS, G.
Plate XXXII. ACTINEMYS MARMORATA (Ag.), G.
INDEX.
TH* ADOPTED SYSTEMATIC NAMES OF GROUTS HIGHER THAN GENERA ARE IK CAPITALS J
ALL THE SYXOXTMS ARE IS ITALICS.
Ablepharus. 220.
peronii, 220.
ACRODONTES, 410.
Acrodonts, 216, 313.
Actinemys, 464, 465.
marmorata, 465, 466.
aculeatus, Gecko, 283.
aenea, Cyclodina, 236, 237.
aestuosa, Lygosomella, 251, 252.
affinis, Eulaemus, 366.
affinis, TUiqua, 228.
Agama cornuta, 403.
cristatella, 411.
cyclura, 318.
douglassii, 398.
discosura, 303.
grandociilis, 414.
gutturosa, 412.
hispida, 318.
jacksoniensis, 414.
moluccana, 412.
muricata, 414.
nigricollis, 318.
orbicularis, 395.
platyura, 303.
taraguira, 319.
tuberculata, 318.
undulata, 379.
Agama vultuota, 412.
agilis, Mabouya, Scincns, 261.
agilis, Mabuya, 261.
agua, Bufe, 80.
allicans, Bufo, 80.
albolabris, Tiliqua, 261.
Amblystoma, 13.
tenebrosum, 14.
American safeguard, the great, 203.
Amphibia, 1.
Amphibius, 202.
Amphibolurus, 413.
maculiferns, 417.
muricatus, 414.
Amphiesma rhodomelas, 165.
Amphisbaena scvtigera, 217.
Amphisbaenae, 216.
AMPHISBAENIDAE, 215, 216.
Amphislaenoidea, 216.
Amydae, 462.
Anaides, 7, 8, 11.
lugubris, 8, 11.
ancoras, Xenodon, 167.
Anguis corallina, 109.
platurus, 185.
ru/a, 109.
rt//iw, 109.
scytale, 109.
ttriatus, 109.
annulatus, Gecko, 291.
120
UIUVBESIT7
478
Anota, 407.
mc'calli, 392, 408.
Anoures, 16.
ANCRA, 16.
arabica, Serpens, 116.
argus, Coluber, Natrix, 116.
argus, Morelia, 115.
armatus, Gecko, 283.
arunco, Bufo, Pleurodema, 38, 88.
arunco, Rana, 38.
Ascalabotes, 272, 288, 289.
delalandii, 289.
Ascalabotoidea, 272.
atra, Halichelys, 451.
atra, Testudo, Thalassochelys, 451.
ATRETODEIRA, 3.
Atritodtres, 3.
atrocostata, Emoa, 264.
atrocostatus, Mdbouya, Scincus, 264.
atrox, Crotalus, 189.
aurantiacus, Brachycephalus, 100.
Ephippipher, 100.
aurea, Rana, 48.
aurea, Ranoidea, 48, 62.
aurora, Rana, 18.
Australasian galliwasp, 233.
snake, 116.
australis, Testudo, 470.
Autosaures, 198, 199, 201.
B.
Bascanion, 126, 127.
vetustus, 127.
BATRACHIA, 1.
ANURA, 2, 16.
URODELA, 2.
Batrachians, 1.
Batrachosoma, 400.
coronatum, 400, 401.
baudini, Emoa, 263.
baudinii, Eumeces, Mabouya, 263.
beaglii, Ortholaemus, 369.
beecheyi, Salamandra, 5.
belcheri, Euprepis, 229, 230.
bellii, Liolaeinus, 334.
INDEX.
benyalensis, Bufo, 92.
bibroni, Cystignathus, 38.
Tropidoboa, 117.
bibroni, Enygrus, 117.
Pleurodema, 38, 88.
Rhytidodeira, 352.
bibronii, Liolaemus, 352.
Proctotretus, 352.
bicarinata, Chelonia, 441.
bicolor, Hydrus, 185.
bicolor, Pelamys, 185.
Bipes cariococca, 225.
striatus, 225.
bistriatus, Euprepis, Scincns, 261.
Liolaemus, 365.
blainvillei, Phrynosoma, 392, 401.
Blowing viper, 134.
Blue calotes, 412.
boaeformis, Cerberus, 170.
boaeformis, Elaps, Python, 170.
Boddaert, Keneux de, 234.
boddaertii, Cyclodus, 233.
BOIDAE, 111.
Boltalia, 279.
Bombinator, 38.
horridus, 80.
ocellatus, 38.
boreas, Bufo, 74, 75.
bottae, Charina, 111.
bottae, Tortrix, 111.
boutonii, Cryptoblepharus, 220.
Brachycepbalus, 99.
aurantiacus, 100.
ephippium, 100.
Brachylophus, 314, 373, 374.
fasciatus, 374, 375.
Breviceps, 94, 99.
brevidactylus, Hoplodactylus, 294.
brevidactylus, Naultinus, 294.
brevirostris, Tapaya, 397.
brcvirostrum, Phrynosoma, 392.
Bronchocela, 411.
cristatella, 411, 412.
buchanani, Tiliqua, 220.
Bufo, 74.
agua, 80.
INDEX.
479
Bufo albicans, 80.
arunco, 38, 88.
bengalensis, 92.
boreas, 74, 75.
carinatus, 92, 93.
chilensis, 88.
columbiensis, 77.
dubia, 92, 93.
ephippium, 99, 100.
gracilis, 83.
horridus, 80.
humerah's, 80,
icterus, 80.
Zozarus, 80.
lugubrosus, 85.
maculiventris, 80.
marinus, 80.
melanostictus, 92.
ornatus, 80, 85.
poeppigi, 90.
tcaber, Spix, 80.
Baud., 92, 93.
ttellatus, 80.
thaul, 38, 88.
Bufonella, 94.
crucifera, 95.
BCFONIDAE, 71.
J3ufoniform.es, 71.
Bufonium, Elosia, 66, 67.
Pleurodema, 38.
bufonium, Phrynosoma, 392, 403.
Bufonoidea, 71.
burtonii, Hemidactylus, 284.
C.
Caguana, 432.
Calamaria, 122.
tennis, 123.
CALAMARIDAE, 120, 124.
californiae, Pleurodeles, 5.
caliginosus, Leptodactylus, 31.
Callirhinus, 139.
patagoniensis, 139, 140.
Calotes, 411.
Calotes, blue, 412.
chilensis, 340.
crittalellus, 412.
gutturosa, 412.
gutturosus, 412.
Cantoria, 156.
violaeea, 156.
Caouana, 430.
caretta, 432.
elongata, 430, 435.
olioacea, 436.
Chelonia, 431, 435.
Testudo, 431.
Thalassoehelys, 431, 432.
Caouanae, 430.
Caouane, La, 432, 433.
La Tortue, 432.
Caouanes, Ch^lonees, 430.
Caret, Le, 433, 441, 442,
Caretta, 438.
esculenta, 454.
cephalo, 431.
imbricata, 440, 441.
rostrata, 446.
squamosa, 442.'
thunbergii, 454.
caretta, Caouana, 432.
Testudo, 431, 440, 441,
Carettoidea, 428.
carinata, Tiliqua, 228.
carinatus, Bufo, 92, 93.
cariococca, Pygopus, 225.
eartereti, Emoa, 263.
cartertii, Eumeces, Mabouya, 263.
casuarinae, Cyclodus. 236.
catenifer, Coluber, 135.
tatenifer, Pituophis, 135.
Catodon, 106. •
Caledonians, 106,
celestinus, Scincus, 270.
cepediana, Testudo, 430.
cephalo, Caretta, 431.
Chelonia, 431, 435.
Testudo, 431.
Cephalopeltis, 216.
cuvieri, 217,
480
INDEX.
Cephalopeltis hemprichii, 217.
scutigera, 217.
Cerberus, 170.
boaeformis, 170,
cinereus, 170.
obtusatus, 170.
russelii, 170.
ceylonicus, Gekko, 290.
chamissonii, Coronella, 161.
Charina, 111.
bottae, 111.
Che'lonee caret, La, 441.
faux caret, La, 441.
h, sternum bicarene, La, 441.
Chelonees caouanes, 430.
franches, 453.
imbrique'es, 438.
CHELONIA, 425, 426, 427, 428.
Chelonia, 452.
bicarinata, 441.
caretta, 431.
caouana, 431, 435.
cephalo, 431, 435.
dussumieri, 432, 435, 437.
esculenta, 454.
formosa, 456.
imbricata, 441.
lacrymata, 455.
marmorata, 455.
maculosa, 454.
muhisculata, 441.
midas, 455.
mydas, 453, 454.
olivacea, 432, 435.
pelagiorum, 431.
pseudocaretta, 441.
pseudomydas, 454.
ruppelii, 432.
tenuis, 459.
virgata, Schw., 437, 438.
virgata, Wagl., 431.
viridis, 453, 454.
Cheloniae, 429.
Cheloniae imbricatae, 438.
liberae, 453.
Cheloniadae, 429.
Chelonians, 425, 426, 427.
CHELONIDAE, 428, 429.
Cheloniens, 428.
CHELONII, 426, 427, 428.
Chelonioidea, 429.
Chelymys, 462.
chilensis, Bufo, 88.
Coronella, Dipsas, 173.
Calotes, Leiodera, Liolaemus,
Proctotretus, Tropidurus, 340.
ehilensis, Liodeira, 340.
Tachymenis, 173.
Chionia, 229, 280.
venusta, 230.
Chioninia, 230.
Churchillia, 184.
cinereus, Cerberus, 170.
CISTTJDININA, 463.
CLEMMYDIDAE, 464.
Clemmydoidae, 464.
COELODONTES, 199.
coerulea, Rana, 62.
Coluber argus, 116.
catenifer, 135.
doliatus, 159.
infernalis, 148.
laticaudalus, 181.
merremi, 159.
nebulatus, 142.
pictus, 129.
sibon, 142.
spilotes, 116.
colubrinus, Hydrophis, Hydras, 183.
colubrinus, Platurus, 183.
columbiensis, Bufo, 77.
Compressicaudes, 201.
conspersus, Liolaemus, 365.
Contia, 124.
mitis, 125.
corallina, Anguis, 109.
Cordyles, 205.
cornuta, Agama, 403.
Tapaya, 403.
cornutum, Phrynosoma, 392, 403.
cornutus, Tropidog aster, 403.
coronatum, Batrachosoina, 400, 401.
INDEX.
481
corona/urn, Phrynosoma, 392, 400.
Coronella chamissonii, 161.
chilensis, 173.
violacea, 156.
corticata, Testado, 431.
corticate, Thalassochelys, 431, 435.
Crapaud du Bengale, 92.
crassicauda, Hombronia, 240.
crassicaudum, Lygosoma, 240.
Crinia, 17.
georgiana, 17.
crizfa fella, Agatna, 411.
cristatella, Bronchocela, 411, 412.
crutatellus, Calotes, 412.
Crocodiles, 194, 309.
Crossurus, 281.
platyurus, 281, 286.
Crotalus, 187.
atrox, 1*9.
lucifer, 187, 188.
crotaphomelas, Seincua, 233.
crucifera, Bufonella, 95.
Cryptoblepharus, 219.
bontonii, 220.
eximius, 222.
peronii, 220.
plagiocephalus, 220.
Cfcnodon, 202.
Ctenosaurus sieberi, 375.
cuvieri, Cephalopeltis, 217.
cuvieri, Phyllurus, 303.
cyanea, Schl., Hyla, 62.
cyanea, Daud., Hyla, 62.
cyanodactylu,s, Gecus, 284.
cyanodactylus, Hemidactylus, 284.
cyanogaster, Liolaeiuos, Proctotretus, 348
cyanogaster, Ptychodeira, 347, 349.
cyanura, Eraoa, 270.
cyanura, Mabovya, 263.
Tiliqua, 270.
cyanurns, Scincus, 270.
Cyclodina, 235.
aenea, 236, 237.
Cyclodus, 232, 236.
boddaertii, 233.
casuarinae, 236.
Cyclodus flavigularis, 233.
giga8,233.
Cydosaures ylyptodermes, 216.
ptychopleures, 205.
cyclura, Agama, 318.
Cylindrophis, 108.
rufa, 109.
rvfus, 109.
Cyrtodactylus, 306.
marmoratut, 305.
platurus, 303.
Cystignathus, 33, 38.
biLronf, 38.
dorsal ts, 42.
elegans, 41.
graeilis, 33.
macroglossus, 33.
nebulosus, 33, 34.
nodosut, 38.
parvulus, 35, 36.
peronii, 43.
roseus, 33.
D.
Dactyloperus, 279.
insulensis, 280.
Dactylotttes fissipedes, 2^-.
darwini, Eulaemus, 361.
Pleurodema, 38.
dancinii, Liolaeinus, Proctotretus, 361.
delalandii, Ascalabotes, 289.
Euprepis, 229, 230.
delalandii, Platydaetylus, Tarentola, 289.
! Dendrophis, 129.
picta, 129.
prasinus, 131.
Desmognatbus, 8.
Diyitata, 462.
Dipsadomorpbus, 142.
Dipsas chilensis, 173.
nebulata, 142.
schokari, 129.
Discodactylus, 299, 300.
phacophorus, 300.
discotura, Agama, 303.
121
482
discosure, L6zard, 303.
doliatus, Coluber, 159.
Doliophis, 175, 176.
flaviceps, 176.
Doliosaurus, 407.
mc'calli, 407, 408.
modestus, 409, 410.
platyrhinos, 409.
dorsalis, Cystignathus, 42.
dorsalis, Wagleria, 42.
dorsualis, Halophila, 58.
Doryura, 281, 285, 286.
vulpecula, 286.
douglassii, Agama, Phrynosoma, 398.
douglassii, Tapaya, 397.
draytoni, Rana, 23.
Dromicus temminckii, 161.
dubia, Bufo, 92, 93.
dugesii, Lacerta, 200.
dussumieri, Chelonia, 432, 435, 437.
dussumieri, Lepidochelys, 437.
duvauceli, Hoplodactylus, 294.
duvaucelii, Platydactylus, 294.
E.
Echidna spilotes, 116.
Ecphymotes, Cuv., 318.
torquatus, 319.
tuberculatus, 319.
Elaps boafformis, 170.
flaviceps, 176.
psammophu, 178.
ELAPSIDAE, 185.
elegans, Cystignathus, 41.
elegans, Liolaemus, 334.
Lygophis, 183.
Naultinus, 209.
Pleurodema, 40, 41.
Elgaria, 205.
formosa, 206.
grandis, 212.
principis, 214.
scincicauda, 210.
elongata, Ctiouana, 430.
INDEX.
Elosia, 64.
bufonium, 66, 67.
nasuta, 65.
vomerina, 69.
Emo, 263.
Emoa, 229, 262, 263.
atrocostata, 264.
baudini, 263.
cartereti, 263.
cyanura, 270.
hieroglyphica, 263.
nigrita, 268.
samoensis, 265.
Emydae, 464.
EMYDIDAE, 463, 464.
Emydoidae, 464.
Emydoide.a, 464.
Emys marmorata, 466.
nigra, 466, 469.
Engystoma, 94.
Enygrus, 117.
bibroni, 117.
ensatus, Triton, 14.
Ephippipher, 99.
aurantiacus, 100
ephippium, Brachycephalus, 100.
cphippium, Bufo, 99, 100.
Erelmochdones, 428.
Erethmoclielys, 438, 439.
imlricata, 441.
squamata, 442.
ermanni, Triton, 5.
Erythrolamprus venutissimm, 169.
Eryx rufa, 109.
esculenta amen'cana, Rana, 80.
Caretta, Chelonia, 454.
esculenta, Rana, 26.
Euchelonia, 453.
my das, 454.
Euchelys, 447.
macropus, 448.
Eulaemus, 328, 357.
affinis, 366.
darwini, 361.
fitzingeri, 365.
maculatus, 367.
INDEX.
483
Eulaemus pictus, 364.
signifer, 366, 367.
tenuis, 358.
Eumeces, 229.
baudinii, 263.
carteretii, 263.
freycinetii, 264,
lessonii, 270.
n&jre, 268.
rufescens, 228.
samoensis, 265.
spixii, 261.
Eunotes, 312.
Euprepes sebae, 228.
Euprepis, 229.
belcheri, 229, 230.
bistriatus, 261.
delalandii, 229, 230.
gravenhorsti, 229, 230.
multifiisciatus, 228.
venustus, 229, 230.
Eutaenia, 147.
infernalis, 148.
leptocephala, 150, 151, 152, 155,
pickeringi, 150.
ordinoides, 153.
vagrans, 154.
Eutropis, 227.
eximius, Cryptoblepharus, 222.
Etypneustes, 202.
F.
fasciala, Iguana, 374.
Lacerta, 199.
fasciatus, Brachylophus, 374, 875.
fasciatus, Hydrophis, 180.
Hydras, 181.
fasciolaris, Hombronia, 243.
Faux caret, La Chelonee, 441.
femorata, Ptychodeira, 344.
femoratus, Proctotretus, 344.
Fissipedes, Dactyloteles, 282.
Heterolepidotei, 290.
Homulepidotes, 294.
fitzingeri, Eulaemus, 365.
filzinyeri, Liolaemus, 365.
Ptychodeira, 365.
fitzingerii, Liolaemus, 366.
D. & B., Proctotretus, 365.
Bell, Proctotretus, 366.
fitzroii, Ortholaemus, 373.
flaviceps, Doliophis, 176.
flaviceps, Elaps, 176.
flavigularis, Cyclodus, 233.
flavo-viridis, Ranoidea, 50.
formosa, Chelonia, 456.
Elgaria, 206.
franche, La Tortue, 454.
franches, Chelonees, 453.
freycinetii, Eumeces, Tiliqua, 264,
frontalis, Sceloporus, 384, 385,
G.
Galapagos Tortoise, 471.
galliwasp, Australasian, 233,
Gecko, 290,
aculeatus, 283.
annulatus, 291,
armatus, 283.
gullalus, 291.
incanfscens, 288,
mabuia, 283.
maryinatus, 282,
monarchus, 292.
oceanicus, 273.
pacificus, 294.
plnticaudus, 303.
verruculatus, 2S4.
t'e/-««, 291.
Gecko h, gouttelettes, 291.
de Linneus, Salamandre ou, 291,
ijecko, Lacerta, 290.
Geckoides, 272.
Geckones, 21 >.
Geckotient, 272.
(7ec«s cyanodactylus, 284,
(Jehyra, 272, 273.
(juluris, 273,
484
INDEX.
Gehyra oceanica, 273.
pac.lfica, 273, 294.
vorax, 274, 275.
Gekko, 272, 290.
ceylonicus, 290.
indicus, 290.
monarchus, 292.
platyufut, 282.
teres, 291.
verticillatiis, 291.
verus, 291.
Gekkonidae, 273.
GEKKOTIDAE, 272.
georgiana, Crinia, 17.
gigas, Cyclodus, 233.
giyas, Scincus, Tiliqua, 233.
Glyptodermes, Cydosaures, 216.
Goniodactylus, 304.
marmoratus, 304, 305.
gouttelettes, Gecko h,, 291.
gracilipes, Oreodeira, 420.
gracilis, Bufo, 83.
Cystignathus, 33.
Ptychodeira, 341.
Sceloporus, 386, 387.
gracilis, Leiodera, 341.
graii, Naultinus, 309.
Gramrnatophora, 414.
muricata,) 414.
grandis, Elgaria, 212.
grandoculis, Agama, 414.
granosus, Hemidactylus. 284.
granulatus, Hoplodactylus, 299.
granulalus, Naultinus, 294.
granulosus, Triton, 5.
gravenhorsti, Euprepis, 229, 230.
Leiodera, 339.
Green turtle, 433, 453.
gronovii, Pygodactylus, 225.
gularis, Gehyra, 273.
guttata, Lacerta, 291.
guttatus, Gecko, Platydactylus, 291.
gutturosa, Agaraa, Calotes, 412.
gutturosus, Calotes, 412.
Gyinnodactylus, 303.
marmoratus, 305.
Gymnodactylus phytturus, 303.
jilotiims, 303.
G ymnophthalmidae, 219.
H.
Halophila, 47, 54.
dorsualis, 58.
heros, 55.
papuana, 55.
vitiensis, 57.
Halychelya, 451, 452.
atra, 451.
harlani, Phrynosoma, 392, 403.
Hawk's bill Turtle, The, 441.
Heloderms, 195.
Hemidactylus, 281, 282, 286.
burtonii, 284.
cyanodactylus, 284.
yrunosus, 284.
mabouia, 283.
imbuia, 283.
nifirginatus, 282.
mutifutus, 277.
oualensis, 273.
platyurus, 282.
triedrus, 284.
verruculatus, 284.
verrucosus, 284.
hempricJiH, Cephalopeltis, Lepidosternon,
217.
Heredia, 10, 11.
oregonensis, 11.
hernandesi, Phrynosoma, 392.
hernandesi, Tapaya, 395.
heros, Halophila, 55.
heterolepis, Tropidurus, 314.
Heterodon, 134.
IleteroUpidotes fissipedes, 289, 290.
Heterolepids, 322.
Heteronota, 305.
pelagica, 306.
hieroglyphica, Einoa, 263.
hieroylyphicum, Lygosoraa, 263.
hieroglyphicus, Liolaemus, 367.
INDEX.
485
Hinulia, 257, 258.
taeniolata, 258.
hispida, Agama, 318.
Holotropis, 322.
Homalopsis rhynchops, 170.
sclineiderii, 170.
Hombronia, 239, 240.
crassicauda, 240.
fasciolaris, 243.
undosa, 240, 241.
Homottpidotes fissipides, 294.
Hoplodactylus, 293, 309.
brevidactylus, 294.
duvauceli, 294.
granulatus, 294.
pomarii, 294.
maculatus, 294.
horridus, Boinbinator, Bufo, 80.
humeralis, Bufo, 80.
Ilurria schneideriana, 170.
hyacinthina, Lacerta, 379.
HYDRASPIDES, 462.
Hydrophis colabrinus, 183.
pelamys, 185.
platura, 185.
Hydrosaurus, 195.
varifgatm, 196.
varius, 196.
Hydrus bicotor, 185.
colulrinus, 183.
fascialus, 181.
Hyla, 47, 52, 54, 59.
cyanea, Schl., 62.
cyanea, Baud., 62.
jacksoniensis, 48, 62.
nasus, 65.
regilla, 60.
scapularis, 60.
Hylae, 47.
Hylaeform.es, 47.
Hylarana, 52, 54.
mindanensis, 52, 53.
HYLIDAE, 47.
Hylodes, 62, 63.
parvus, 63.
icterux, Bufo, 80.
Iguana fasciala, 374.
Iguanidae, 312.
lyuaniens, 312.
lyuanina, 312.
Iguanoides, 312.
Ilysia, 108.
rufa, 109.
imbricata, Caretta, 440, 441.
imbricata, Erethmochelys, 441.
imbricatae, CheJoniae, 438.
imbriquees, Ch61onees, 438.
incanescens, Gecko, 283.
ineonspicuus, Liolaemus, 339.
indica, Salamandra, 290.
indicus, Gekko, 290.
Indian Tiliqua, 228.
infernalis, Coluber, 148.
infernalis, Eutaenia, 148.
insulensis, Dactyloperus, 280.
intermedia, Ptychodeira, 348, 349.
inter medius, Proctotretus, 348.
Isabella, Wenona, 113, 114.
J.
jacksoniensis, Agama, 414.
Hyla, 48, 62.
Ranoidea, 48.
japonica, Testudo, 454.
jefftrsoniana, Salamandra, 13.
jeffersoniana, Xipbonura, 13.
junceus, Tropidonotus, 145.
K.
Kakariki, 309.
Kaouane, Tortue, 432.
Kassina, 17.
Keneux de Boddaert, 234.
Lesueur, 258.
kieneri, Tiliqua, 270.
kinyii, Liolaemus, Proctotretus, 350, 351.
kingi, Rhytidodeira, 350, 351.
122
486
INDEX.
L.
labyrinthica, Rana, 29.
labyrinthicus, Leptodactylus, 29.
Lacerta, 199.
dugesii, 200.
fasciata, 379.
gecko, 290.
guttata, 291.
hyacinthina, 879.
maderensis, 200.
mexicana strumosa, 411.
monitor, 203.
muricata, 414.
platura, 303.
rufescens, 228.
Schneider iana, 282.
scincoides, 233.
taeniolata, 258.
tapayaxin, 403.
teguixin, 203.
lejuguacu, 202.
vndulata, 379.
varia, 196.
Lacerlae, 198.
LACERTIDAE, 197, 198.
Lacertiens, 198.
Lacertinidae, 199.
Lacertus orbicularis, 395.
lacrymata, Chelonia, 455.
laevis, Taricha, 5.
La grande Sauvegarde d'Amerique, 203.
Land Tortoises, 470.
La Sauvegarde d'Amerique, 203.
laticaudatus, Coluber, 181.
laticaudatus, Platurus, 180, 181.
lazarus, Bufo, 80.
Leather turtle, 428.
Leiocephalus, 322.
Leiodactyles, 199.
Leiodera, 339.
chilensis, 340.
fjracilis, 341.
gravenhorsti, 339.
Leiodlres, 339.
Leiuperus, 44.
lemniscatus, Liolaemus, 365.
L'epaule armee, 80.
Le petit lezard gris et mouchete, 284.
Lepidochelys, 430, 434, 435.
dussumieri, 437.
olivacea, 435, 436.
Lepidosaures, 218.
LEPIDOSTERNIDAE, 216.
Lepidosternon hcmprichii, 217.
scuttgerum, 217.
leptocephala, Eutaenia, 151, 152.
Leptodactylus, 28.
ealiginosus, 31.
labyrinthicus, 29.
ocellatus, 29.
serialls, 29.
typhonius, 29.
Leptophis ^H'C<KS, 129.
punctulatus, 116.
spiloles, 116.
Le Sauvegarde, 202.
Le scinque ;\ dix raies, 258.
ordinaire de la Nouvclle Hol-
lande, 234.
lessonii, Eumeces, Tiliqua, 270.
Microlophus, 314.
Le teguixin, 203.
Le teyougouazou, 203.
Ldzard discosure, 303.
ou agame gros yeux, 414.
liberae, Cheloniae, 453.
Limnodytes, 52.
lineatus, Liolaemus, 335, 338.
Lipinia, 254.
pulchella, 254, 255.
vulcania, 254, 255.
Liodeira, 339.
chilensis, 340.
cyanogaster, 348.
Liolaemus, 334.
bellii, 334.
libronii, 352.
bistriatits, 365.
chilensis, 340.
conxpersus, 365.
cyanogaster, 348.
I N D E X.
Liolaemus darwinii, 361.
elegans, 334.
filzingeri, 365.
fitzingerii, 366.
hieroylyphicus, 367.
inconspicuus, 339.
kini/ii, 350.
lemnfscatus, 365.
lineatus, 335, 338.
maculatus, 367.
marmoratus, 329.
multimaculatus, 372.
nigromaculatus, 353.
nitidus, 334, 335.
olicaceus, 340.
oxycephalus, 354.
pectinatus, 333.
f ictus, 365.
punctatus, 358.
ti'jnifer, 367.
tenuii, 358.
unicolor, 334.
wiegmannii, 373.
Liophis merremi, 159.
Lizard, the muricated, 414.
variegated, 203.
Lodia, 122.
tenuis, 122, 123.
Loggerhead Turtle, The, 432, 433.
lucifer, Crotalus, 187, 188.
lugubris, Anaidcs, 8, 11.
luyubris, Salamandra, Triton, 5, 8.
lugubrosus, Bufo, 85.
Lygophis elegans, 163.
Lygosoma crasticaudum, 240.
hieroylyphicum, 263.
moco, 246.
taeniolata, 258.
temminckii, 236.
Lygosomella, 251, 254.
aestuosa, 251, 252.
31.
Mabouya, 261.
Mabouya ayilit, 261.
atrorostatus, 264.
laudinii, 263.
carteretii, 263.
cyanura, 263.
mabouya, Hemidactylus, 283.
mabuia, Hemidactylus, 283.
mabuia, Gecko, 283.
31abuya, 260, 261.
agilis, 261.
multicarinata, 228.
mabuya, Tachybates, 233.
mc'callii, Anota, 392, 408.
mc'calli, Doliosaurus, 407, 408.
macquaria, Chelymys, 462.
macquaria, Platemys, 462.
macropus, Euchelys, Testudo, 448.
unacroglossus, Cystignathus, 33.
maculatus, Eulacmus, 367.
Hoplodactylus, 294.
maculalus, Liolaemus, Tropidurus, 367.
Naultinus, 294.
macuJiferus, Amphibolurus, 417.
maculiventris, Bufo, 80.
maculosa, Chelonia, 454.
maderensis, Laeerta, 200.
magellanica. Rhytidodeira, 351.
mayellanicus, Proctotretus, 351,
maryinatus, Gecko, 282.
luarginatus, Hemidactylus, 282.
marina, Rana, 80.
Testudo, 431.
americana, Testudo, 441.
marinae pullus, Testudo, 432, 441, 454,
Marine toad, 80.
marinit viridis, Testudo, 454.
uiarinus, Bufo, 80.
maritima, Rana, 25.
maruioratu, Actinemys, 465, 466.
Cbelouia, 455.
marmorala, Emys, 406.
marmoratus, Cyrtodactylus, Gymnodacty-
lus, 305.
Seps, 203.
mannoratus, Goniodactylus, 304, 305.
Liolaemus, 329.
488
INDEX.
Mediterranean Tortoise, The, 432.
Meerschildkrote, 432.
melanostictus, Bufo, 92.
merianae, Sal valor, 203.
meriani, Monitor, 203.
merremi, Coluber, 159.
merremi, Liophis, 159.
Metaeus, 96, 97.
tiinidus, 97.
mexicana strumosa, Lacerta, 411.
Miorolophus, 313, 314, 322.
lesson ii, 314.
peruvianus, 314.
midas, Chelonia, 455.
milliusii, Phyllurus, 304.
mindanensis, Hylarana, 52, 53.
mitis, Contia, 125.
Moco, 275.
moco, Lygosoma, Oligosoma, Tiliqua, 246.
Mocoa, 245, 251.
zelandica, 246.
modestum, Phrynosoma, 392.
modestus, Doliosaurus, 409, 410.
moluccana, Agatua, 412.
monarchies, Gecko, Platydactylus, 292.
monarchus, Gekko, 292.
Monitor, 202.
meriani, 203.
teguixin, 203.
varius, 196.
monitor, Lacerta, Tupinambis, 203.
Teguixin, Tejus, 203.
Monitoridae, 195.
Morelia, 115.
argus, 115, 116.
punctata, 116.
spilotes, 116.
mosaica, Ptychodeira, 349.
mosaicus, Proctotretus, 349.
multicarinata, Mabuya, 228.
multifasciatus, Euprepis, 228.
Scincus, 258.
multilineatits, Scincus, 261.
multimaculatus, Ortholaemus, 372.
multlmaculatus, Liolaemus, 372.
Bell, Proctotretus, 369.
mvltimaculatus, D. & B., Proctotretus, 372.
muric.ata, Agama, Granimatophora, Laeer-
ta, 414.
muricatus, Amphibolurus, 414.
Muricated Lizard, 414.
mutilatus, Heiuidactylus, 277.
mutilatus, Peropus, 277.
mydas, Chelonia, 453.
Euchclonia, 454.
Testudo, 448, 453.
N.
Nalala, 471.
Nalla wahlagillee pam, 185.
nasicorne, La Tortue, 432.
nasicornis, Testudo, 426.
nasus, Hyla, 65.
nasuta, Elosia, 65.
Natrix aryus, 116.
Naultinus, 293, 308, 309.
brevidacfi/lus, 294.
elegans, 309.
graii, 309.
granulatus, 294.
maculatus, 294.
pacificus, 294.
punctatus, 309.
nelulata, Dipsas, 142.
nebitJatus, Coluber, Petalognathus, 142.
nebulatus, Sibynon, 142.
ncbulosus, Cystignathus, 33, 34.
neglectus, Peropus, 278.
negre, Eumece, 268.
nitjer, Triton, 13.
niyra, Emys, 466.
niyricollis, Agama, 318.
nigrita, Emoa, 268.
niyromaculata, Ptychodeira, 853.
nigromaculata, Rhytidodeira, 353.
nigromaculatus, Liolaemus, Proctotretus,
Tropidurus, 353.
nigropunctata, Tiliqua, 261.
nigropunctatus, Scincus, 261.
nitidus, Liolaemus, 334, 335.
I X D E X.
489
nitidus, Tropidurus, 335, 339.
noctua, Scincus, 249.
noctuum, Oligosoma, 249.
nodosa, Pleurodema, 38.
nodosus, Cystignathus, 38.
Notophthalmus torosus, 5.
0.
obtusatus, Cerberus, 170.
occidentalis, Sceloporus, 383.
oceanica, Gehyra, 273.
oceanicus, Gecko, 273.
ocellata, Rana, 29.
ocellatus, Bombinator, 38.
ocellatus, Leptodactylus, 29.
octolineatiis, Scincus, 258.
Oiacopoda, 428.
Oligosoma, 245, 254.
nwco, 246.
noctuum, 249.
zelandicum, 246.
olivacea, Caouana, Thalassochelys, 436.
Chelonia, 431, 435.
olivacea, Leptochelys, 435, 436.
olivaceus, Liolaemus, Tropidurus, 340.
OPHIDIA, 105.
Ophidians, 105.
Ophiodes, 224.
striatus, 225.
Ophiophthalmes, 219.
OPHIOPHTHALMI, 219.
Oplurus torqualus, 319.
orbiculare, Hallow. Phrynosoma, 396.
Holbr. Phrynosoma, 403.
Wiegm. Phrynosoma, 392, 395.
orbicularis, Agama, Phrynosoma, 395.
orbicularis, Tapaya, 394, 395.
ordinoides, Eutaenia, 153.
ordinoules, Tropidonotus, 153.
Oreodeira, 419, 420.
gracilipes, 420.
oregonensis, Heredia, 11.
ornatissima, Saccodeira, 823.
ornatissima, Tapaya, 396.
ornatissimum, Phrynosoma, 396.
ornatum, Phrynosoma, 398.
ornatus, Bufo, 80, 85.
Ortholaemus, 368.
beaglii, 369.
fitzroii, 373.
multimaculatus, 372.
oualensis, Hemid&cty\\if,Perodactylu$, 273.
oxycephala, Rhytidodeira, 353, 354.
oxycephalus, Liolaemus, Tropidurus, 354.
Oxyglossus, 44.
P.
pacifica, Gehyra, 273, 294.
pacificuss, Gecko, 294.
pacificus, Naultinus, 294.
papuana, Halophila, 55.
papuana, Rana, 55.
parvulus, Cystignathus, 35, 36.
parvus, Hylodes, 63.
patagoniensis, Callirhinus, 139.
pectinatus, Liolaemus, 333.
Bell, Proctotretus, 330.
Ptyyoderus, 330.
pectinatus, D. & B. Proctotretus, 333.
pelagica, Heteronota, 306.
pelagiorum, Chelonia, 431.
Pelamide bicolore, 185.
Pelamys, 184.
bicolor, 185.
pelamys, Hydrophis, 185.
Pentadactylus, 293.
Pentonyx, 294.
Peripia, 279.
Perodactylus, 273.
oualensii, 273.
peroni, Wagleria, 42, 43.
peronii, Ablepharus, Cryptoblepharus, 220.
Cystignathus, 43.
Python, 116.
Peropus, 277.
mutilatus, 277.
neglectus, 278.
peruvianus, Microlophus, 314.
123
490
INDEX.
peruvianut, Stellio, Steirolepis, 314.
Petalognathus, 142.
nelulatus, 142.
Petia, 219.
phacophorus, Discodactylus, 300.
Phrynosoma, 388, 389, 402.
blainvillei, 392, 401.
brevirostrum, 392.
lufonium, 392, 403.
conutum, 392, 403.
coronatum, 392, 400.
dowjlassii, 392, 398.
harlani, 392, 403.
hernandesi, 392.
mc'calli, 392.
modestum, 392.
orl/iculare, Wiegm., 392, 395.
Holbr., 403.
Hallow., 396.
orbicularis, 395.
ornatissimum, 392.
ornatum, 398.
planiceps, 392, 403.
platyrhinos, 409.
platyrhinum, 392.
regale, 392, 406.
sokms, 392, 401.
wiegmanni, 392, 395.
Phyllodactylus, 297, 300.
vittatus, 297.
Phyllurus, 302.
cuvieri, 303.
inermis, 304.
milliusi, 304.
platurus, 330.
phylhirus, Gymnodactylus, Stellio, 303.
pickeringi, Eutaenia, 150.
pickeringii, Eutaenia, 150.
picta, Dendrophis, 129.
pictus, Coluber, 129.
Leptophis, 129.
Liolaemus, Proctotretus, 365.
pictus, Eulaemus, 361.
Pinnata, 428.
Pituophis, 133, 134, 139.
catenifer, 135.
Pituophis wilkesi, 137.
Pityophis, 134.
plagiocephalus, Cryptoblepharus, 220.
plagiocephalus, Scincus, 220.
planiceps, Phrynosoma, 392, 403.
Platemys macquaria, 462.
platicaudvs, Gecko, 303.
plalura, Hydrophis, 185.
Lacerta, 303.
platurot, Anguis, 185.
platurus, Cyrtodactylus, Gymnodactylus,
Stellio, 303.
platurus, Phyllurus, 303.
Platurus, 180.
colubrinus, 183.
fasciatus, 181.
laticaudatus, 180, 181.
Platycormae, 313.
Platycorms, 313.
Platydactylian, 294, 309.
Platydactylus, 290.
delalandii, 289.
duvaucelii, 294.
monarchus, 292.
platyrhinos, Doliosaurus, 409.
platyrhinos, Phrynosoma, 409.
platyrhinnm, Phrynosoma, 392.
platywa, Agama, 303.
platyurus, Crossurus, 281, 286.
platyurus, Gekko, Hemidactylus, Stellio,
282.
Platyurus, 281, 282.
schneiderianm, 282.
Pleodontes, 201.
Plethodon, 8.
Plethodont, 7.
PLETHODONTIDAE, 3, 7.
Pleurudelcs californiae, 5.
Plturodema, 37.
arunco, 38.
bibroni, 38, 88.
bufonium, 38.
darwini, 38.
elegans, 40, 41.
nodosa, 38.
PLEURODONTES, 313.
INDEX.
491
Pleurodonts, 216, 313.
Podinema, 202.
teguixin, 203.
poeppigi, Bufo, 90.
pollicaris, Thecadactylus, 288.
pomarii, Hoplodactylus, 294.
prasinus, Dendrophis, 131.
pretiosa, Rana, 20, 21.
principis, Elgaria, 214.
Pristidactyles, 199.
Proctotretus, 322, 326, 327, 329.
biironii, 352.
chi/ensis, 340.
cyanoyaster, 348.
darwinii, 361.
femoratus, 344.
fitzinyerii, Bell, 366.
D. & B., 365.
yracilis, 341.
intermedius, 348.
kingii, 350, 351.
maijellanicus, 351.
mosuicits, 349.
multimaculatus, Bell, 369.
D.&B.,372.
nigromaculatus, 353.
pectinatus, D. & B., 333.
pectinatus, Bell, 330.
pictus, 365.
sitjnifer, 366.
eplendidus, 329, 330.
stantoni, 347.
tenuis, 358.
icieymannii, Bell, 373.
D. & B., 352.
Psammophis temminckii, 161.
psammophidlus, Pseudelaps, 178.
psammophis, Elaps, 178.
psaiumophis, Pseudelaps, 178.
Pseudelaps psammophidius, 178.
psammophis, 178.
pseudocarelta, Chelonia, 441.
pseudomydas, Chelonia, 454.
Ptychodeira, 328, 340, 341, 350.
cyanogaster, 347, 349.
femorata, 344.
Ptychodeira filzingeri, 365.
gracilis, 341.
intermedia, 348, 349.
mosaica, 349.
nitjromaculata, 353.
xignifera, 367.
stantoni, 341, 347.
wiegmanni, 352.
Ptychopleures, Cyclosaures, 205.
Ptychopleuri, 205.
Ptygodtres, 341.
Ptyyoderm, 841.
pectinatus, 330.
punctata, Morelia, 116.
Teira, 200.
punctatus, Liolaemus, 358.
Naultinus, 309.
punctatus, Python, 116.
punctulatvs, Leptophis, 116.
purpurescens, Xenodon, 167.
Pygodactylus, 224.
yronovii, 225.
Pygopus cariococca, 225.
striatus, 225.
Python boaeformis, 170.
peronii, 116.
punctatus, 116.
Pythonians, 115.
Q.
quadrivittatus, Steirolepis, 114.
B.
Kabdion, 119.
occipitale, 120.
Rachites, 229, 230.
Rana, 17, 52, 54.
arunco, 38.
aurea, 48.
aurora, 18.
caerulea, 62.
draytoni, 23,
492
INDEX.
liana esculenta, 26.
labyrinthica , 29.
marina, 80.
americana, 80.
maritima, 25.
ocellata, 29.
papuana, 55.
typhonia, 29.
pretiosa, 20, 21.
temporaria, 25, 26.
thaul, 88.
viridis, 25, 26.
Ranhyla, 52.
KANIDAE, 16.
Ranidella, 17, 44.
signifera, 44, 45.
Raniformes, 16.
Ranoidea, 47.
aurea, 48, 62.
flavo-viridis, 50.
jacksoniensis, 48.
resplendens, 48.
regale, Phrynosoma, 392, 406.
regilla, Hyla, 60.
resplendens, Ranoidea, 48.
Rhinechis, 189.
Rhinoceros turtle, 426, 432.
Rhinoderma, 71, 72.
signifera, 72.
rhodonielas, Amphiesma, 165.
rhodomelas, Tropidonotus, 165.
rhynchops, Homalopsis, 170.
Rhytidodeira, 328, 349, 350.
bibroni, 352.
Kingi, 350, 351.
magellanica, 351.
nigromaculata, 353.
oxycephala, 353, 354.
wiegmanni, 352.
roseus, Cystignathus, 33.
rufa, Anguis, Eryx, Illyria, Tortrix, 109.
rufa, Cylindrophis, 109.
rufescens, Eumeces, Lacerta, Scincus, 228.
rufescens, Tiliqua, 227.
rufus, Anguis, Cylindrophis, 109.
russelii, Cerberus, 170.
S.
Sabrina, 106.
tessellata, 106.
Saccodeira, 322.
ornatissiina, 323.
Safeguard, The great American, 203.
Salamandra beecheyi, 5.
indica, 290.
jejfersoniana, 13.
luguliris, 5, 8.
Salamandre ou gecko de Linneus, 291.
SALAMANDRIDAE, 3, 4.
Salva/or, 202.
merianae, 203.
samoensis, Emoa, 265.
samoensis, Eumeces, 265.
SAURIA, 191.
Saurians, 191.
Sauridis, 328.
modestus, 328.
Saurophlhalm.es, 223.
SAUROPHTHALMI, 223.
Sauvegarde, Le, 202.
Sauvegarde d'Amerique, La, 203.
La grande, 203.
sealer, Bufo, 80, 92, 93.
scaled Tortoise, 428, 441, 453.
scapularis, Hyla, 60.
Sceloporus, 377, 378.
frontalis, 384, 385.
gracilis, 386, 387.
occidentalis, 383.
undulatus, 379.
Scelotes, 224.
scheuchzeri, Scytale, 109.
Schiddil, 185.
schlegelii, Thalassophis, 185.
schneideriana', Laeerta, 282.
Hurria, 170.
schneiderianus, Platyurus, 282.
schneiderii, Homalopsis, 170.
schokari, Dipsas, 129.
Scinci, 218.
scincicauda, Elgaria, 210.
scincicauda, Tropidolepis, 210.
INDEX.
493
SCINCIDAE, 218.
Scincoidea, 218.
Scincoides, 218.
scincoides, Scincus, Tiliqua, 333.
Scincoidiens, 218.
Scincus agilis, 261.
atrocostatus, 264.
bistriatus, 261.
celestinus, 270.
crotaphomelas, 233.
cyanurus, 270.
*//y«M, 233.
multifasciatus, 228.
multilineatus, 258.
niyropunctatus, 261.
noctua, 249.
oclolineatus, 258.
plagiocephalus, 220.
rufescens, 228.
scincoides, 233.
taeniolatus, 25S.
tuberculatus, 233.
undecimstriatus, 258.
SCOLECOPHIDES, 106.
scutigera, Cephalopeltis, 217.
scutif/erum, Lepidosternon, 217.
sci/tale, Anguis, 109.
Scytale scheuchzeri, 109.
Sea Serpents, 184.
Sea Tortoises or Turtles, 428.
sebae, Euprepis, 228.
Seps marmoratus, 203.
serialis, Leptodaetylus, 29.
Serpens arabica, 116.
Serpents, Sea, 184.
Shell tortoise, 442.
sibon, Coluber, 142.
Sibynon, 142.
nebulatus, 142.
sieberi, Ctenosaurm, 375.
signifer, Eulaeraus, 366, 367.
siynifer, Liolaemus, Proctotretus,
deira, 367.
signifera, Kanidella, 44, 45.
Rhinoderma, 72.
snake, Australasian, 116.
Ptycho-
snakes, Worm, 106.
Solaris, Phrynosoma, 392, 401.
SPHARGIDAE, 428, 429.
Sphargis, 429.
spilogaster, Tropidonotus, 145.
spilotes, Coluber, 'Echidna, Leptophis, JIo-
relia, 116.
splendidus, Proctotretus, 329, 330.
spixii, Eumeces, Tiliqua, 261.
squamata, Eretmochelys, 442.
squamosa, Caretta, 442.
squamosa, Testudo, 442.
stantoni, Proctotretus, 347.
stantoni, Ptychodeira, 341, 347.
Steganopoda, 462.
Steirolepids, 322.
Steirolepis, 314.
peruvianus, 314.
quadrivittata, 314.
thoracica, 314.
tigris, 314.
xanthostigma, 314.
steUatus, Bufo, 80.
Stellio^erurianus, 314.
phytturus, 303.
jplalurus, 303.
platyurus, 282.
torqualus, 318.
vndulatus, 379.
Stettiones, 312.
Stellionidae, 312.
Stellionina, 312.
Stenocormae, 313.
Stenocorms, 313.
Stenodactylian, 309.
Stenostoma, 106.
striatus, Anguis, 109.
Bipes, Pygopus, 225.
striatus, Ophiodes, 224.
Strongylures, 201.
tabulata, Testudo, 465.
124
494
INDEX.
Tachybates mabuya, 233.
Tachymenis, 173.
chilensis, 173.
taeniolata, Hinulia, 258.
taeniolata, Lacerta, Lygosoma, Tiliqua, 258.
taeniolatus, Scincus, 258.
Taeniophis tantillus, 161.
tantillus, Taeniophis, 161. •
Tapaya, 394.
brevirostris, 397.
cornuta, 403.
douglassi, 397.
hernandesi, 395.
orbicularis, 394, 395.
ornatissima, 396.
Tapayaxin, 395, 403.
tapayaxin, Lacerta, 403.
Tapayea, 394.
Tapayes, 394.
taraf/uira, Agama, 319.
Taraguira, 317, 318, 319.
torquata, 318.
Tarentola, 289.
delalandii, 289.
Taricha, 4.
laevis, 5.
torosa, 5.
teguixin, Le, 203.
Teguixin monitor, 203.
teyuixin, Lacerta, monitor, Podinema, 203.
teguixin, Teius, 202, 203.
Teidae., 201.
Teira, 200.
punctata, 200.
Teius, 201.
teguixin, 202, 203.
Tejus, 202.
monitor, 203.
temminckii, Drovnicus, 161.
temminckii, Lygosoma, 236.
Psammophis, 161.
temporaria, liana, 25, 26.
tenebrosa, Xiphonura, 14.
tenebrosum, Amblystoma, 14.
tennis, Calamaria, 123.
Liolaemus, 358.
tenuis, Chelonia, 459.
Eulaemus, 358.
Lodia, 122.
teres, Gekko, 291.
tessellata, Sabrina, 106.
tessellatum, Typblops, 106.
TESTUDINATA, 426, 427, 461, 462.
Testudines, 462.
TESTUDINIDAE, 470.
Testudinis marinae pullus, 432, 441, 454.
Testudo, 470.
australis, 470.
atra, 451.
caouana, 431.
caretta, 431, 440, 441.
cepediana, 430, 435.
cephalo, 431.
corticata, 431.
imbricata, 440, 442.
japonica, 454.
marina, 431.
ame.ricana, 441.
marinis viridis, 454.
mydas, 453.
nasicornis, 426.
pedibus pinniformis, 432.
squamosa, 442.
tabulata, 465.
viridis, 453.
viridisquamosa, 453.
Testuggine di mare, 432.
Tetronyx, 290.
teyougouazou, Le, 203.
teyuguacu, Lacerta, 202.
Thalassidae, 428.
TKalassites, 428.
Thalassochelys, 429, 430, 435.
atra, 451.
caouana, 431, 432.
corticata, 431, 435.
olivacea, 436.
Thalassophis, 184. •
scltlfyelii, 185.
thaul, Bufo, 38, 88.
thaul, liana, 88.
Thecadactylus pollicaris, 283.
INDEX.
495
thoracica, Steirolepis, 114.
The great American safeguard, 203.
The Loggerhead Turtle, 432.
The Mediterranean Tortoise, 432.
thunbergii, Caretta, 454.
tigris, Steirolepis, 114.
Tiliqua, 229.
affinis, 228.
albolabris, 261.
buchanani, 220.
carinata, 228.
cyanura, 270.
frcycinetii, 264,
ffiyas, 233.
kieneri, 270.
indian, 228.
lessonii, 270.
moco, 246.
nigropunctata, 261.
rufescens, 227.
scincoides, 233.
spixii, 261.
taeniolata, 258.
whitii, 238.
zelandica, 246.
timidus, Metaeus, 97.
torquata, Taraguira, 318.
torquatus, Ecpltymotcs, 319.
Stellio, Tropidurus, 318.
torosa, Taricha, 5.
torosus, Notophthalmus, Triton, 5.
Tortoise, the Mediterranean, 432,
Scaled, 428.
Tortoises, Sea, or Turtles, 428.
Tortrix lottae, 111.
rufa, 109.
Tortue Ji ecailles vertes, La, 454.
caouane, La, 432.
caret, La, 441.
de mer, 454.
franche, La, 454.
kaouane, 432.
nasicorne, 432.
verte, 454.
TREMATODEIRA, 3.
Trematod&res, 3.
triedrus, Hemidactylus, 284.
Triton ensatus, 14.
ermanni, 5.
granulosus, 5.
lugubris, 8.
niger, 13.
torosus, 5,
Tropidoboa, 117.
bibroni, 117.
Tropidogaster, Dura. & Bibr., 402, 403.
Tropidogaster, Fitz., 402.
cornutus, 403.
Tropidolepis (in part), 378.
scincicauda, 210.
undulatus, 379.
Tropidonotus junceus, 145.
ordinoideg, 153.
rhodomelas, 165.
spilogaster, 145.
Tropidurus chilensis, 340.
heterolepis, 314,
maculatus, 367-
nigromaculatus, 353,
nitidus, 335, 339.
olivaceus, 340.
oxycephalus, 328, 354.
iorquatux, 318,
tuberculatus, 319.
tuberculata, Agama, 318.
tuberculatus, Ecphymotes, Tropidurus, 3 19.
Scincus, 233.
tuilee, la, 441.
Tupinambis monitor, 203.
variegatug, 196,
Turtle, green, 433, 453.
Leather, 428.
Loggerhead, 432.
Rhinoceros, 426, 432.
Turtles or Sea Tortoises, 428.
Tylopoda, 462.
Typhlopians, 106.
Typhlops tessMatum, 106.
typlionia, Rana, 29.
typhonius, Leptodactylus, 29.
U.
undecimstriatus, Scincus, 258.
496
INDEX.
unicolor, Liolaemus, 334.
undosa, Hombronia, 240, 241.
undulata, Agama, Lacerta, 379.
undulatus, Sceloporus, 379.
undulatus, Stellio, Tropidolepis, Uromastix,
379.
URODELA, 1, 2.
Urodeles, 2.
Uromastix undulatus, 379.
V.
vagrans, Eutaenia, 154.
VARANIDAE, 194, 195.
Varanids, 194, 312.
Vuraniens, 195.
Varanus varius, 196.
varia, Lacerta, 196.
Variegated Lizard, 203.
variegatus, Hydrosaurus,Tupinauibis, 196.
varius, Hydrosaurus, 196.
varius, Monitor, Varanus, 196.
venusta, Chionia, 230.
venustus, Euprepis, 229, 230.
venutissimus, Erythrolamprus, 169.
verrucosus, Hemidactylus, 284.
verruculatus, Gecko, Hemidactylus, 284.
verticillatm, Gekko, 291.
venis, Gecko, Gekko, 291.
vetustus, Bascanion, 127.
violacea, Cantoria, 156.
violacea, Coronella, 156.
Viper, blowing, 134.
Vipera argus, 116.
virgata, Chelonia, 437, 438.
viridis, Chelonia, 453, 454,
Rana, 25, 26.
viridis, Testudo, 453.
viridisquamosa, Testudo, 463.
vitiensis, Halophila, 57.
vittatus, Diplodactylus, 297.
vittatus, Phyllodactylus, 297.
vomerina, Elosia, 69.
vorax, Gehyra, 274, 275.
vulpecula, Doryura, 286.
vultuosa, Agama, 412.
W.
Wagleria, 17, 42.
dorsalis, 42.
peroni, 42, 43.
Wenona, 111.
Isabella, 113, 114.
plumbea, 112.
tohitii, Tiliqua, 233.
wiegmanni, Phrynosoma, 892, 395.
Ptychodeira, 352.
wiegmanni, Rhytidodeira, 352.
wiegmannii, Bell, Proctotretus, 373.
D. & B. Proctotretus, 352.
Liolaeinus, 373.
wilkesi, Pituophis, 137.
wilkesii, Pituophis, 137.
Worm snakes, 106.
X.
xanthostigma, Steirolepis, 114.
Xenodon ancorus, 167.
purpurescens, 167.
Xerobates, 471.
Xiphonura, 13.
jeffersoniana, 13.
tenebrosa, 14.
Z.
zelandica, Mocoa, Tiliqua, 246.
zelandicum, Oligosoma, 246.
ZONURIDAE, 204, 205.
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