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Microcaecilia marvaleewakeae

Microcaecilia marvaleewakeae

Brazil
Status
Unknown

IUCN conservation assessment category

Habitat
marshes, ephemeral wetlands, and shade-covered woodlands

Primary ecological niche & biome

Diet
spiders, flies, and small earthworms

Dietary type and primary food source

Activity
crepuscular

Diurnal, nocturnal, or active patterns

Scientific Summary

GBIF Taxonomic Backbone & Wikipedia Registry Profile

Diagnosis. The new species is a Microcaecilia because it has the eye under bone, tentacle aperture closer to eye than to naris, and no diastema between vomerine and palatine teeth. Microcaecilia marvaleewakeae has a known range of 124 – 138 primary annuli, 21 – 33 secondary grooves, premaxillary-maxillary teeth extend behind posterior margin of choanae; vomeropalatine teeth bicuspid; dermal scales present; no indication of subdermal scales. Microcaecilia marvaleewakeae differs from M. albiceps (Boulenger, 1882), M. grandis Wilkinson, Nussbaum & Hoogmoed, 2009, M. rabei (Roze & Solano, 1963), M. savagei Donnelly & Wake, 2013, M. trombetas Maciel & Hoogmoed, 2011, M. unicolor (Duméril, 1863), M. iyob Wilkinson & Kok, 2010, and M. dermatophaga Wilkinson, Sherratt, Starace & Gower, 2013 in having more primary grooves (more than 123). Distinct from M. dermatophaga also in having more secondary grooves (more than 9), and a greater maximum number of complete secondary grooves (more than 3). From M. supernumeraria Taylor, 1969 it differs in having fewer primary (less than 143) and secondary grooves (less than 93). Distinct from M. grandis and M. rochai Maciel & Hoogmoed, 2011 in having fewer secondary grooves (less than 42). Distinct from M. albiceps, M. savagei, M. supernumeraria, M. trombetas, and M. unicolor in having bicuspid instead of monocuspid vomeropalatine teeth.
Biology & Conservation

Ecologically, the conservation status of Microcaecilia marvaleewakeae is officially designated as Unknown. Current field registries estimate a global population composed of an unquantified number of individuals, making habitat preservation critical to maintaining their wild populations.

It is typically endemic to marshes, ephemeral wetlands, and shade-covered woodlands, showing great physiological synergy with its surroundings. In terms of dietary preferences, it relies primarily on a diet of spiders, flies, and small earthworms. It exhibits specialized adaptations centered around a crepuscular activity pattern, optimizing its energy conservation and interactions within its native ecosystem. The species has a typical natural lifespan of approximately 5 years, allowing it to adapt and mature through structured generational cycles.

Ongoing biological monitoring and ecological advocacy emphasize the importance of protecting this species. The stability of its food chain and the prevention of fragmentation in its primary range are vital for the continued survival of Microcaecilia marvaleewakeae.

Energy & Activity Profile
Habitat & Adaptation Index
Quick Facts
Native RangeBrazil
Habitat Rangemarshes, ephemeral wetlands, and shade-covered woodlands
Lifespan5 Yrs
StatusUnknown
ScientificMicrocaecilia marvaleewakeae
Registry Info
Lifespan5 years
KingdomAnimalia
FamilySiphonopidae