Rough-sided Forest Skink – Vietnascincus rugosus – Darevsky & Orlov, 1994

Science name: Vietnascincus rugosus – Darevsky & Orlov, 1994

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

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

Description:

Physical Characteristics:

Size:
There is limited data on the size of this species. However, it is described as an arboreal alpha-palatal skink with well-developed limbs and pentadactyl digits.
Head Scales:
The upper head shields are rugose (wrinkled), which differentiates it from many other skink species. The eyelids are well-developed, with a translucent disc in the lower one.
Facial Features:
The nostril is located in the back part of an undivided nasal scale, followed by a small postnasal scale. Supranasal scales are present, and the parietal scales meet each other behind the interparietal scale.
Body Scales:
The dorsal scales are sharply keeled, adding to its rough appearance. It has small ear openings with three small auricular lobules, and the tympanum is deeply sunk.

Distribution and habitat:

Elevation:
Vietnascincus rugosus is found at an elevation of approximately 700 meters above sea level.

Area:
This species is endemic to Vietnam, specifically known from Buoenloy, Gilai-Contum Province. It was originally discovered and described from this region, and its full range is not well-documented.

Habitat:
The species inhabits primary tropical lowland forests. The type specimens were found on fallen tree trunks under the forest canopy, indicating that Vietnascincus rugosus may be semi-arboreal or arboreal in its lifestyle. It likely depends on the dense, moist environments provided by undisturbed forest habitats.

Behaviour and ecology:

Lifestyle:
Based on the type specimens, Vietnascincus rugosus appears to be semi-arboreal to arboreal, preferring fallen tree trunks and possibly moving within the forest canopy. Its arboreal behavior is supported by its strong limbs and the forest habitat in which it was discovered.

Conservation and status:

IUCN Red List Category and Criteria:
The species is currently listed as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List due to a lack of sufficient data about its population, ecology, and threats. The assessment was last conducted in 2017.

Population Trend:
The population trend is unknown. Vietnascincus rugosus is only known from its type locality, and further studies are required to determine its population health and distribution.

Threats:

Habitat Loss:
The primary threat to Vietnascincus rugosus is habitat destruction caused by deforestation and land-use changes in its known range. Being dependent on forest ecosystems, it may be vulnerable to logging and agricultural activities.
Conservation Actions:

Further Research:
Surveys to locate additional populations and gain a better understanding of the species’ ecology and behavior are necessary. Protection of its forest habitat will be crucial for its long-term conservation.