Tuc Dup Hill Rock Gecko – Cnemaspis tucdupensis – Grismer & Ngo, 2007

Science name: Cnemaspis tucdupensis – Grismer & Ngo, 2007

Taxonomic:  Animalia>> Chordata>> Reptilia>> Squamata >> Gekkonidae >> tucdupensis

Species status: Endemic ; IUCN status: VU (Vunerable)

Description: Physical characteristics: Adults reach a maximum snout-vent length (SVL) of 51 mm. The species has 8–10 supralabials, 7–9 infralabials, smooth ventral scales, and no precloacal pores. Caudal tubercles are restricted to a single paravertebral row on each side, and the subcaudal scales are smooth with an enlarged median row. The species also has 2–3 cloacal tubercles, and no shield-like subtibial scales.
Coloration: The dorsal side is gray with large black and pale yellow spots. The head and snout feature black net-like patterns surrounding pale white markings. Distinct black stripes with a white underside extend from the postocular region to the nape. The legs are marked with reddish-brown and pale yellow bands, and the tail exhibits alternating black and pale yellow bands. The ventral side in males is pale orange.

Distribution and habitat: Elevation: Found at elevations ranging from 10 to 250 meters.
Area: Endemic to Tuc Dup Hill, Tri Ton District, An Giang Province, Vietnam, near the border with Cambodia. The species is restricted to this single locality in southern Vietnam.
Habitat: Cnemaspis tucdupensis inhabits granite outcrops within primary semi-deciduous forests. It is most active in caverns where sunlight filters through to support plant and moss growth, which provides its foraging habitat. The species avoids direct sunlight and prefers shaded vertical and inverted rocky surfaces. At night, it ventures into more open areas within caverns and on boulder surfaces exposed to the outside.

Behaviour and ecology: Lifestyle: Cnemaspis tucdupensis is diurnal and forages during the day in rock crevices. It is most active in shaded rocky surfaces near cavern entrances. During the night, the species becomes less active and can be found in open areas within caverns and on boulders exposed to the outside.
Reproduction: Oviparous, with females laying two eggs in rock crevices or tree hollows at the beginning of the rainy season.
Diet: The species primarily feeds on insects and beetles found in its habitat.

Conservation and status: IUCN Red List Category and Criteria: Vulnerable (D2)
Threats: Although quarrying in the area is currently limited, it poses a plausible threat to the species if expanded in the future. The restricted range of the species makes it highly vulnerable to habitat destruction. Monitoring of potential quarrying activities and habitat loss is essential to prevent the species from becoming critically endangered.