About Funambulus sublineatus obscurus (Pelzeln & Kohl, 1886)
Taxonomic Identity
The Nilgiri striped squirrel (Funambulus sublineatus) is a small, threatened rodent species belonging to the squirrel family Sciuridae.
Native Range
It is native to rainforests of the southern Western Ghats, including the Nilgiris, in Peninsular India.
Historical Taxonomic Classification
Before a recent taxonomic split, Funambulus obscurus from Sri Lanka was classified as a subspecies of F. sublineatus. When these populations were combined into one species, the English common name "dusky striped squirrel" was used for the combined group; this name is now restricted only to the Sri Lankan F. obscurus species.
Pre-Split Range
Before the taxonomic split, the recognized range of the species included both India and Sri Lanka.
Post-Split Distribution
After the split, F. sublineatus, also called the Nilgiri palm squirrel, is now limited in distribution to the Western Ghats of India. It is confined to wet humid forests in the Western Ghats, Nilgiri hills, and surrounding areas such as the region around Kodaikanal, India.
Research Status
Very little is known overall about this squirrel.
Size and Weight
It is likely the smallest species in its genus, Funambulus, and weighs approximately 40 grams.
Taxonomic Record Update Need
Because it is now recognized as an endemic mammal of India, existing species records for F. sublineatus need to be updated.
