A new species of Leiolopisma (Lacertilia: Scincidae) from Western Australia

Lei%pisma baudini n. sp. is described on the basis of a single specimen from the vicinity of Point Culver, Western Australia.The new species is quite distinct and relatively primitive.Its dosest living relative appears to be L. entrecasteauxij from southeastern Australia.Brief notes are provided on certain aspects of habitat, female reproduction and colour hues of most of the mainland Australian and Tasmanian species of Lei%pisma, and these data are used to support Rawlinson's (1974b and1975) suggestion that the Australian species of the genus, at least, form two subgroups.A key is also provided to the described species of Lei%pisma from mainland Australia and Tasmania.