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Eumeces persicus is a species of skink endemic to central Iran. It is a medium-sized skink, distinguished by two clear, wide, and brown lateral lines extending from the ear opening to the hindlimbs, with scattered light orange spots, and two median rows of dorsal scales broadly enlarged in eight longitudinal rows.

Geographic range --- The species ranges from southern Tehran to Kerman Province along the eastern slopes of the Zagros Mountains towards the Iranian plateau. The species is widely distributed at the eastern Zagros Mountain slopes, in the central plains of Iran from the deserts of southern Tehran (holotype) to Kerman Province (paratypes) encompassing a distribution range of about 900 km. To date, only two localities are known for E. persicus and its distribution is most likely much wider. Further investigation is necessary to find more records in other regions with similar habitats situated between the two current localities.

Habitat characteristics --- The habitat of the species is composed of broad flat vegetated plains with scattered bushes and soft soils. At least three borrows in the habitats that were most likely used for escaping and nesting were observed at its habitats. The species is usually found in the course of flood plains or seasonal waterways. E. persicus generally seen to inhibit lower elevations (from 1100-2100 m above sea level) in the central Iranian Plateau) and drier environment than the larger, uniform morphs (e.g., E. schneiderii).

Etymology

The species epithet “persicus” is an adjective that refers to the current known distribution of the new species—Iran (=Persia).