Taxonomic status of the melanistic forms of the Cordylus cordylus complex (Reptilia: Cordylidae) in the south-western Cape, South Africa

Abstract

The taxonomic status of the two melanistic morphotypes belonging to the Cordylus cordylus complex in the south-western Cape, South Africa, is considered. It is proposed that the coastal melanistic form, previously described as subspecies of C. cordylus,be considered a separate species, while the previously unknown montane melanistic form is also described as a new species. Areas of uncertainty, which may affect the status of the two melanistic species in the future, are discussed.