Smith’s Blind Skink – Dibamus smithi – Greer, 1985

Science name: Dibamus smithi – Greer, 1985

Taxonomic:  Animalia>> Chordata>> Reptilia>> Squamata >> Dibamidae >> smithi

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

Description: Physical characteristics: Dibamus smithi is distinguished by its unique rostral sutures, which converge dorsally to form a median suture in younger specimens. However, these sutures are reduced or lost entirely in older individuals. The species has 18-19 mid-body scale rows and 59-61 subcaudal scales.

Coloration and Appearance: As a limbless, burrowing skink, Dibamus smithi has a smooth, cylindrical body with a color that blends well with its forest floor habitat. Specific coloration details are not well-documented.

Distribution and habitat: Elevation: Found at elevations between 1,212 and 1,515 meters above sea level.
Area: Dibamus smithi is endemic to Vietnam, specifically recorded from Da Ban on the Lang Bian Plateau in Da Lat, Lam Dong Province, and Nha Trang in Khanh Hoa Province.
Habitat: This fossorial species inhabits primary montane forests but can also persist in secondary or disturbed forests. It resides in subtropical/tropical moist montane forests.

Behaviour and ecology: Lifestyle: Dibamus smithi is a fossorial, or burrowing, species that spends much of its time underground in forested environments. Information on its specific behavior and ecological role remains scarce.

Reproduction: The species is oviparous, laying eggs as part of its reproductive cycle. However, detailed information on its breeding habits and seasonality is not available.

Diet: While direct information is lacking, it is likely that Dibamus smithi feeds on small invertebrates, similar to other fossorial reptiles.

Conservation and status: IUCN Red List Category and Criteria: Listed as Data Deficient (DD) due to the lack of information regarding its population status, ecological requirements, and potential threats.

Threats: Habitat degradation due to deforestation may pose a threat, but no specific threats have been confirmed.

Conservation actions: Research is needed to establish the species’ population trends, habitat status, and possible impacts from habitat degradation. Monitoring of its range and habitat conditions is essential for its conservation.