However, in recent times this group underwent a taxonomic redivision causing the spinifex slender blue-tongue to be divided into three different subspecies.

[3][5] This is a group that consists of small to medium sized skinks that inhabit that arid areas of Australia.

This distribution closely correlates with dryer desert environments, characterised by the presence of spinifex grasses.

[4] The adaptability of the C. melanops to arid conditions and Spinifex-rich landscapes contributes to its presence across the diverse regions of the Australian continent.

[6] The low bearing vegetation of spinifex and clumped grasses aids in providing a shelter for this species while also acting as camouflage from predators.

[5] This subspecies is typically a grey-brown, yellow-brown or orange-brown dorsal colouration with minimal body patterning.

[4] This aids them in the manoeuvring through the sandy surfaces into spinifex grasses and climbing up the branches of trees.

[8] Each of the C. melanops have a solitary, nocturnal behaviour pattern and is typically most active within the late evenings and into the night.

[5] These skinks can have a tendency to be spotted within open environments such as roads and walking tracks when hunting for prey.

However, they can also have a habit of hiding under rocks or low vegetation such as spinifex grasses where it is able to evade predators and wait for oncoming prey.

[4] With this species producing a higher number of offspring it can allow for a greater chance of the young's survival within the harsh and arid habitats.

As a result, this species has adapted to feeding on fleshy leaves and some fruit for a source of water.

[4] However, the primary distinguishing difference between the C.branchialis and the C. melanops species, is that the spinifex skink has a greater amount of scales on its body.