Amphisbaena cayemite
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Amphisbaena cayemite faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to urban development and agricultural expansion across its extremely limited range in Haiti. The species' fossorial lifestyle makes it particularly vulnerable to soil disturbance and construction activities. Deforestation for charcoal production and subsistence farming has eliminated much of the native dry forest habitat essential for this endemic worm lizard's survival.
Habitat
This fossorial species inhabits dry forests and scrublands in Haiti, living underground in sandy and rocky soils where it can burrow effectively. The species requires well-drained soils with adequate moisture retention and organic matter to support its subterranean lifestyle and prey base.