Reptilia, Squamata, Leptotyphlopidae, <i>Leptotyphlops</i>, Ecuador: Re-evaluation of the species cited for the country.

Abstract

Upon analysis of the information supporting the inclusion of different Leptotyphlops taxa as part of the herpetofauna of Ecuador, I conclude that Leptotyphlops anthracinus, L. guayaquilensis, and L. subcrotillus are the only species with confirmed records from the country. Leptotyphlops anthracinus and L. guayaquilensis are Ecuadorian endemics and the presence of L. subcrotillus is supported herein by publication of data about the first vouchered specimen. Leptotyphlops signatus and L. tenellus should be excluded from the reptile fauna of Ecuador because all previous records where based on misidentified specimens or specimens of uncertain origin. Studies on the Leptotyphlops of Ecuador are greatly needed. Several unidentified specimens are deposited in museum collections and may correspond to new distributional records or unnamed taxa.