Laobao mangrove skink – Emoia laobaoense – Bourret, 1937

Science name: Emoia laobaoense – Bourret, 1937

Taxonomic:  Animalia>> Chordata>> Reptilia>> Squamata >> Scincidae >> laobaoense

Species status: Endemic ; IUCN status: LC (Least Concern)

Description: Physical Characteristics:
Size and Weight: No precise measurements of size, weight, or physical dimensions of Emoia laobaoense have been documented since its first description in 1937, and thus its full physical profile remains unknown.

Distinctive Features: Like other species in the Emoia genus, Emoia laobaoense likely features a slender, elongated body with smooth, glossy scales. Its coloration is unrecorded, though it likely exhibits hues similar to other Emoia species, such as brown, green, or grayish tones, which would aid in camouflaging within the forest environment.

Limbs and Tail: As with most skinks, it is expected that Emoia laobaoense possesses well-developed limbs and a long tail, both crucial for moving efficiently through forest leaf litter. Skinks are known for their speed and agility, traits that would assist in navigating dense undergrowth and avoiding predators.

Distribution and habitat: Range:
Emoia laobaoense, also known as Bourret’s Emo Skink, is only known from a single locality in Vietnam. It was first recorded in the Lao Bao area, situated approximately 75 kilometers inland from Da Nang in the Huong Hoa District of Quang Tri Province. The species was found at an elevation of around 250 meters above sea level. Since its original description in the 1930s, it has not been rediscovered, and its range remains highly restricted and enigmatic.

Habitat:
The skink inhabits subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, which provide essential ecological conditions for its survival. Unfortunately, due to the lack of studies, little is known about its specific ecological preferences, habitat use, or adaptability to environmental disturbances. Its habitat was recorded in forested mountainous areas, but the absence of further sightings means that the exact requirements of Emoia laobaoense are largely speculative.

Behaviour and ecology: Diet:
The diet of Emoia laobaoense has not been directly studied, but it is presumed to be insectivorous, similar to other members of the Emoia genus. Likely prey includes small invertebrates such as ants, beetles, and possibly small spiders. The exact feeding habits of this species remain undocumented due to the absence of recent research.

Living Habits:
Very little is known about the living habits of Emoia laobaoense, though it is presumed to be a diurnal species, given that most skinks are active during daylight hours. It would likely bask in sunny patches to regulate its body temperature, as skinks are ectothermic reptiles.

Activity Patterns:
Emoia laobaoense is assumed to be a terrestrial species, foraging among leaf litter and low vegetation within the forest. Like other skinks, it would display rapid movements and excellent agility when navigating its environment, traits essential for avoiding predators and locating food.

Reproduction
Breeding Season:
It is presumed that Emoia laobaoense is oviparous (egg-laying) like most skink species. However, no specific information on its breeding season, reproductive cycle, or clutch size is available due to the lack of observations since its discovery.

Egg-laying and Development:
No recorded data exists regarding the reproductive behavior of Emoia laobaoense. However, similar skinks typically lay small clutches of eggs in concealed locations, such as under logs or in leaf litter. The young would likely be independent upon hatching, as is common in the Emoia genus.

Conservation and status: IUCN Red List Category and Criteria:
Emoia laobaoense is currently listed as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List. This classification highlights the lack of sufficient data on its population size, distribution, or specific threats. The last assessment was conducted in 2017, with no further research conducted to update its conservation status.

Population Trend:
The population trend of Emoia laobaoense remains unknown due to the absence of sightings and research since the 1930s. Its current status is uncertain, and it may be rare, elusive, or possibly in decline within its limited range.

Threats:
The primary potential threat to Emoia laobaoense is habitat loss due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, and other land-use changes in the Lao Bao region. The degradation of lowland forests could have a significant negative impact on the species. Other possible threats include logging and human development, which are common challenges for forest-dwelling species in Southeast Asia.

Conservation Actions:
At present, no specific conservation measures are in place for Emoia laobaoense. There is an urgent need for further research to rediscover the species and assess its population, habitat needs, and ecological role. Protecting its remaining forest habitat in the Huong Hoa District is vital to ensuring the survival of this skink.