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By: Omid Mozaffari and James F. Parham

Date: December 28, 2007

Abstract: A new species of lacertid lizard, Eremias kavirensis sp. nov., is described from Isfahan Province in central Iran. The new species differs from all other known Iranian Eremias by having a subocoluar scale that does not reach the mouth, fringed toes, scales on flank distinctly larger than those of back, two rows of tibial scales, and its coloration. The known distribution of this distinctive new species is restricted to the Maranjaab sand dunes, Kavir Desert (Dasht-e-Kavir), Isfahan Province, Iran.

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By: HANYEH GHAFFARI, ERTAN TASKAVAK AND MAHMOOD KARAMI

Date: Nuvember 2, 2008

Abstract: The Euphrates softshell turtle, Rafetus euphraticus, is one of the least known species of the Trionychidae. It is found only in the Euphrates and Tigris rivers and their tributaries in Iran, Turkey, Syria, and Iraq. Its range in Iran is limited to Khuzestan Province. In the course of this study (February 2002–June 2005), 16 visits were made to habitats of the species along the Karkheh, Dez, and Karoon rivers and their tributaries in Khuzestan. During these visits 25 specimens were observed and habitat characteristics and threat factors were recorded. Habitat destruction, pollution, and fisheries interactions (intentional killing) are the main threats to the survival of this species in Iran.

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Abstract: Four specimens of Ophiomorus nuchalis (Plateau Snake Skink) were collected from the northern edge of Kavir Protected Region on April 25, 2009, this is the 4th record for this skink from Iran and the first record from some place other than the type locality. The habitat of this skink in this locality is totally different from its habitat in the type locality. Information on habitat, color pattern, size, diet and sexual dimorphism is given.