This project is all about helping conserve the endangered Guthega skink (Liopholis guthega) by encouraging genetic mixing between the Victorian and New South Wales populations through translocation. A big part of the work involves studying the skin microbiome to check for any potential health impacts. We’re comparing microbiome profiles from skinks across both regions to see how they vary and whether any risks might be involved. To do this properly, we’re sampling wild skinks from different parts of Victoria and NSW and looking at how their microbiomes are influenced by a range of factors. Within each location, we’re collecting samples from multiple colonies and noting down what the local environment looks like, including the type and structure of plants around them. We’re also making sure to sample both males and females, adults and juveniles, so we can see if age or sex plays a role. Timing matters too—so we’re collecting samples at different points in the year to capture any seasonal or weather-related changes. And because animal behaviour can affect skin microbes, we’re also paying attention to how many skinks are around, how densely they’re packed, and how much they interact with each other.
