New Limbless Lizard Species Discovered

By ASHOK SHARMA , Associated Press Writer, General Science / Biology

(AP) -- An Indian zoologist said Monday he has found a new species of limbless lizard in a forested area in the country's east. "Preliminary scientific study reveals that the lizard belongs to the genus Sepsophis," said Sushil Kumar Dutta, who led a team of researchers from "Vasundhra," a non-governmental organization, and the North Orissa University.

This undated hand out photo provided by Indian zoologist Sushil Kumar Dutta, shows a new species of limbless lizard belonging to the genus sepsophis, in the forested region of Khandadhar near Raurkela in Orissa state, about 1,000 kilometers (625 miles) southeast of New Delhi, India. The newly found 18-centimeter (7-inch) long lizard looks like a small snake with lower eyelids and scales on both sides of the body, Dutta said. "It prefers to live in a cool retreat, soft soil and below stones.(AP Photo/HO)

Source:
http://www.physorg.com/news99591308.html