Interpopulation dietary comparisons in the common sun skink, Eutropis multifasciata (Squamata: Scincidae)

Thanisha, Kumar and Nik Sasha Khatrina, Khairuddin and Indraneil, Das (2024) Interpopulation dietary comparisons in the common sun skink, Eutropis multifasciata (Squamata: Scincidae). Raffles Bulletin of Zoology, 73 (1). pp. 184-197. ISSN 0217-2445

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Abstract

Eutropis multifasciata, the common sun skink, is a live-bearing member of the family Scincidae and exhibits a tropical distribution in Southeast Asia. While commonly encountered, its abundance at the edge of forests and near human settlements raises questions concerning its natural history, particularly diet. This study aims to understand the trophic ecology of the species in two geographically different regions, the first in the north (Kledang Saiong Eco Park, Ipoh, Peninsular Malaysia) and the second in the south (campus of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak in Kota Samarahan and the Sebungan Oil Palm Estate near Bintulu, Sarawak, both in East Malaysia). Stomach contents were collected over seven months in the north (n = 19) and south (n = 25) using a non-lethal (stomach-flushing) technique. Prey from the following eight taxa were identified: Blattodea, Araneae, Diptera, Dermaptera, Coleoptera, Hymenoptera, Odonata, and Orthoptera. Termites and cockroaches were the most preferred prey. In situ feeding observations identified previously undocumented prey—a representative of the insect order Neuroptera. This study demonstrates that E. multifasciata displays both active and ambush foraging strategies, presumably influenced by specific prey encountered within the habitat. Prey between regions and seasons appear to show significant differences. Environmental changes such as temperature, precipitation, and seasonal variances between regions may influence prey type distribution and impact dietary patterns.

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