A new cryptic Leposoma species from Bahia, Brazil (Squamata, Gymnophthalmidae) based on molecular, morphological, and karyotypic evidence

Abstract

Leposoma paschoali sp. nov., closely related to L. annectans, is described from the Atlantic Forest of Bahia, Brazil. The new species can be distinguished from L. annectans by a combination of morphological and karyotypic traits. Extensive sampling and the integration of multiple lines of evidence were essential for assessing variation and accurately defining the new species, emphasizing the challenging taxonomic history of the genus, which we briefly summarize here. The new species occurs predominantly in parapatry with L. annectans despite occupying similar habitats, suggesting that historical processes and ecological interactions have played a role in shaping the distribution of these congeners.