Hurasdhoo, Ari Atoll, Aliff, Maldives, Asia, Indian Ocean
Collection Date:
16 Nov 1993
Notes:
Slaty Breasted Rail Lewinia striata (disputed specimen is USNM 620276), 4 body masses for the species in Dunning 2008; average 116 range 100-142. We have only one other skeleton of this species with a pelvis to compare this with. White-breasted Waterhen Amaurornis phoenicurus 12 body masses mean 180 range 158-196. Although this is a larger species, it is likely that there is size overlap between this and Lewinia striata. After comparing it with a few skeletons, my judgement is that USNM 620276 could be a small individual of this species. Watercock Gallicrex cinerea 9 body masses mean 503 range 326-650. Not in the right size range. I think we should change the identification of USNM 620276 to Amaurornis? phoenicurus? and note in the catalog record that it was previously identified as Lewinia striata. Cheers! Helen James 10 Nov 2022
