Blanus
Template:Short description Template:Automatic Taxobox
Blanus, also known as worm lizards, are a genus of amphisbaenians found in the Mediterranean region of Europe and North Africa.[1] Like other amphisbaenians, Blanus species are specialized for a subterranean existence, with long, slender bodies, reduced limbs, and rudimentary eyes. Their skulls are powerfully constructed, allowing them to push through soil to create a burrow. Their jaws are well-developed, with large, recurved teeth and a pair of canine-like teeth in the upper jaw.
Four to seven extant species are currently known. The relationships of Blanus to other worm-lizards are not clear. The genus was formerly included in the Amphisbaenidae. More recent analyses suggest that blanids are more primitive, and are either related to Bipes[2] or represent an even more ancient lineage.[3]
A number of fossils from Europe have been referred either to Blanus or to the Blanidae.[4]
Species
The genus contains the following species:[5][6]
- Blanus alexandri Sindaco, Kornilios, Sacchi & Lymberakis, 2014
- Blanus aporus Werner, 1898
- Blanus cinereus (Vandelli, 1797) – Iberian worm lizard
- Blanus mariae Albert & Fernández, 2009
- Blanus mendezi† Bolet et al., 2014
- Blanus mettetali Bons, 1963 – Moroccan worm lizard
- Blanus strauchi (Bedriaga, 1884) – Turkish worm lizard
- Blanus tingitanus Busack, 1988
References
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