Scincid

Adjective relating to the family Scincidae, commonly known as skinks, which are a diverse group of lizards characterized by their elongated bodies, reduced or absent limbs, and smooth, shiny scales.

This term is also used as a noun to denote any member of this family, which is found in various terrestrial habitats worldwide.

Scincid meaning with examples

• The scincid lizard basked in the sun, its iridescent scales reflecting light as it warmed its body before hunting for insects in the leaf litter.
• Among the scincid species native to Australia, the Blue-Tongued Skink is particularly well-known for its distinctive blue tongue, which it displays as a defense mechanism against predators.
• Researchers have studied scincid lizards to better understand their adaptability to different environments and their fascinating behaviors, such as autotomy, where they shed their tails to escape threats.
• In his herpetology class, Dr. Smith emphasized the importance of scincids in ecosystems, explaining how they contribute to soil health by controlling insect populations and serving as prey for larger animals.