A new species of skink has been identified at Liuxihe National Forest Park in Guangzhou. Named Sphenomorphus lingnanensis, it was confirmed by a research team led by Wenzhou University and published in the journal Zoosystematics and Evolution, providing new data for biodiversity studies in Guangdong.
The specimen was first collected in May 2024 from leaf litter in the park's subtropical evergreen broadleaf forest. After more than a year of morphological comparisons and phylogenetic analyses, researchers identified its clear and consistent differences from closely related species, including scale patterns, coloration and skeletal structure.
Sphenomorphus lingnanensis is medium-sized and can be identified by irregular white patches extending from the postnasal region posteriorly to the hind limbs, often forming discontinuous vertical lines. These markings are more conspicuous in juveniles and fade in adults. The species inhabits evergreen broadleaf forests at elevations between 440 and 600 meters, favoring moist ground with thick leaf litter, where it quickly hides when disturbed.
In August 2025, researchers recorded a female Sphenomorphus lingnanensis giving birth to four offspring. As a viviparous species, which is relatively uncommon among reptiles, it offers valuable insight into the reproductive strategies of amphibians and reptiles in southern China.
The discovery highlights the ecological value of Liuxihe National Forest Park, whose well-preserved forest landscape and humid climate provide ideal habitats for diverse wildlife. The park is already home to several nationally protected species, including the Chinese pangolin and the golden Kaiser-i-Hind butterfly.
Author | Huang Xinying
Photo | Wenzhou University research team, Publicity Department of the CPC Conghua District Committee
