Origin, Spread and Biology of the Invasive Plague Skink (Lampropholis delicata) in New Zealand

摘要: The plague skink (Lampropholis delicata) is the only reptile species that has established, and subsequently become invasive, in New Zealand. Native to eastern Australia, was first detected south Auckland mid-1960s. A molecular study identified source population for introduction as inland northern South Wales, near Tenterfield. now spread across majority of North Island via human-assisted jump dispersal. It potential extend its distribution entire Island, apart from Central Plateau region, also Nelson-Marlborough Canterbury regions Island. Sexual dimorphism exists populations Zealand, with females having larger body size interlimb lengths males longer broader heads. Population density appears influence males. Plague skinks Zealand lay eggs, often communally, sheltered microhabitats, eggs hatching February March. mean clutch varies among populations, positively related female size. utilise a wide variety habitats, both natural modified, are diurnal opportunistic insectivores. evidence impact on native biota currently equivocal. recently conservation-sensitive offshore islands Hauraki Gulf, including Great Barrier promoting additional research into eradicating or mitigating within