Tytthoscincus temasekensis
# Tytthoscincus temasekensis

Tytthoscincus temasekensis, common name Singapore swamp skink, is a species of skinks belonging to the family Scincidae.

## Etymology

The species name temasekensis derives from the word Temasek meaning 'Sea Town' in Old Javanese, an ancient name of a settlement in Singapore. As the Latin suffix -ensis means 'from a place', the epithet temasekensis can be translated from Singapore.

## Distribution

This uncommon species is present in Singapore, and in restricted areas of the Peninsular Malaysia.

## Habitat

Singapore swamp skink occurs in freshwater swamp forest, in peat swamp areas and close to shallow streams.

## Description

Tytthoscincus temasekensis can reach a total body length of about 7.6 cm (3.0 in). These small skinks have an elongate and dorso-ventrally flattened body, with smooth scales. Limbs and feet are tiny, short and slender. Its dorsal basic colour is dark brown, with a pale line from the head to the end of the tail. The abdomen is pale brownish. Young skinks are pale brown and slightly pinkish.

## Behavior

These skinks are skilled swimmers and very elusive. Usually they hide amongst or beneath leaf litter next to streams or swamps.

