Kondao Worm Lizard – Dibamus kondaoensis – Honda, Ota, Hikida & Darevsky, 2001

Science name: Dibamus kondaoensis – Honda, Ota, Hikida & Darevsky, 2001

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

Species status: Endemic ; IUCN status: NT (Near Threatened)

Description: Physical characteristics: Dibamus kondaoensis is most closely related to Dibamus deharvengi, sharing an incomplete median rostral suture and a complete nasal suture. However, it differs by having a complete labial suture and other unique morphological characters.

Coloration and Appearance: Like other Dibamus species, this skink has a smooth, limbless body adapted for burrowing, with coloration that blends into its forested habitat.

Distribution and habitat: Elevation: Found at elevations ranging from 10 to 577 meters above sea level.
Area: Dibamus kondaoensis is endemic to the Con Dao archipelago in southern Vietnam, recorded from three islands: Con Son, Hon Ba, and Hon Bay Canh Islands.
Habitat: The species inhabits tropical forests and has been observed in gardens near human settlements. It is also known from dry coastal forests on Hon Ba and Hon Bay Canh islands. While it predominantly occupies subtropical/tropical dry and moist lowland forests, it demonstrates some adaptability to disturbed habitats such as rural gardens.

Behaviour and ecology: Lifestyle: Dibamus kondaoensis is fossorial, spending much of its time underground. It is known to tolerate disturbed environments and has been found in gardens near human settlements.

Reproduction: The species is oviparous, though little is known about its breeding behaviors, including clutch size or timing.

Diet: While the exact diet of Dibamus kondaoensis is not documented, it is likely similar to other fossorial reptiles, feeding on small invertebrates in its environment.

Conservation and status: IUCN Red List Category and Criteria: Listed as Near Threatened (NT) due to its restricted range across three small islands in the Con Dao archipelago. Ongoing development and road construction in parts of its range contribute to its status.

Threats: The main threat to this species is habitat loss due to human activities, including development and infrastructure projects. However, populations on the smaller islands (Hon Ba and Hon Bay Canh) are expected to be more stable.

Conservation actions: Monitoring the species and its habitat is important, especially as development on Con Son Island progresses. Continued protection of forested areas and mitigation of habitat disturbance are key to ensuring the species’ survival.