Double subdigital-pads skink – Scincella rara – (Darevsky & Orlov, 1997)

Science name: Scincella rara – (Darevsky & Orlov, 1997)

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

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

Description:

Physical Characteristics:

Size: Scincella rara is a small skink, distinguished by its unique adaptations.
Scales: One of the most distinctive features of this species is the presence of double rows of subdigital pads on its fingers and toes, a trait that is likely associated with its arboreal lifestyle. This feature sets it apart from other Asian scincids. The species has been placed within the genus Scincella due to certain scale characters, such as the secondary temporal scale overlap pattern (where the lower scale overlaps the upper one).
Coloration and Appearance:
Specific details about the coloration and patterning of Scincella rara are not well documented. Its morphology, including the presence of double subdigital pads, indicates that it is well adapted for life in the trees, aiding in climbing and stability on smooth surfaces like tree bark.

Distribution and habitat:

Elevation:
The type locality of Scincella rara, commonly known as the Double Subdigital-pads Skink, is situated at an elevation of 750 meters above sea level in Buon Luoi, Anhche district, Gia Lai Province, Vietnam.

Area:
This species is only known from its type locality in Gia Lai Province, Vietnam. It has not been recorded elsewhere, and its limited range makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat changes. The specific region may be subject to varying levels of degradation, though it is unclear how much of its habitat has been affected.

Habitat:
Scincella rara is presumed to inhabit lowland tropical rainforests, where it likely exhibits arboreal behavior, living in the canopy or on tree trunks. The species has not been extensively studied, and little is known about its exact ecological preferences, but its presence in lowland forests suggests a reliance on undisturbed forest ecosystems.

Behaviour and ecology:

Lifestyle:
Scincella rara is believed to be an arboreal species, spending most of its life in trees. Its double subdigital pads are a key adaptation that allows it to maneuver efficiently in the forest canopy. Like other Scincella species, it is likely to be insectivorous, feeding on small arthropods found in the forest habitat. However, detailed information on its diet, reproductive behavior, and specific ecology is still lacking.

Reproduction:
The reproductive habits of Scincella rara have not been extensively studied, but like many skinks, it is likely to be oviparous, laying eggs as part of its reproductive cycle.

Conservation and status:

IUCN Red List Category and Criteria:
Scincella rara is currently listed as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List, as there is insufficient data regarding its population size, distribution, and potential threats. The most recent assessment occurred in 2017.

Population Trend:
The population trend for Scincella rara is currently unknown. Since it is only known from a single locality and has not been widely observed, its population status remains uncertain.

Threats:
Potential threats to Scincella rara include habitat loss due to deforestation and degradation of the tropical rainforests in its range. As the species is only known from one location, any habitat disturbance in this area could have a significant impact on its population. Further research is needed to determine the extent of these threats.

Conservation Actions:
There are currently no specific conservation measures in place for Scincella rara. Protecting the forested areas where it is found and conducting further research to understand its ecological needs and population status would be critical steps toward ensuring its survival.

Etymology
The species name rara is derived from the Latin word “rarus,” meaning “rare,” reflecting the fact that this skink is known from only a single locality and has not been frequently observed.