Ba Den Golden Gecko – Gekko badenii – Szczerbak & Nekrasova, 1994

Science name: Gekko badenii – Szczerbak & Nekrasova, 1994

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

Species status: Endemic ; IUCN status: EN (Endangered Species)

Description:

Physical characteristics: Gekko badenii is a relatively large gecko, with a snout-vent length (SVL) ranging from 25 to 28 cm, and some individuals reaching up to 37 cm. The body is marked with pale yellow or white stripes that extend from the head to the tail, becoming more distinct toward the tail. The ventral side is light with granular, uneven scales. It has 8–10 lower labial scales, 10–13 upper labial scales, and 25–28 rows of scales across the midbody.
Coloration and Appearance: The body is pale with white or yellowish stripes from the head to the tail, and the underside is lighter in color. The scales on the dorsal side are keeled, and there are no femoral pores on the thighs

Distribution and habitat:

Elevation: Found at elevations ranging from 0 to 986 meters above sea level.
Area: Gekko badenii is native to southern Vietnam, specifically in Ba Den Mountain, Tây Ninh Province. It has also been recorded in northwestern Kon Tum Province and Hon Me Hill, Kien Giang Province. Its range might extend to nearby regions, including the borders of Laos and Cambodia, but this is not confirmed.
Habitat: This species is typically found in granite rocky areas, either in forests or open areas without forest cover. It lives in rocky habitats, particularly among granite boulders and cliffs.

Behaviour and ecology:

Lifestyle: This gecko is active both during the day and at night. It primarily inhabits caves and areas where large rock formations provide shelter. Its diet consists of insects and fruits, especially ripe figs from Ficus species.
Reproduction: Gekko badenii lays eggs at the start of the rainy season. It typically lays two eggs, often in rock crevices or on rock walls, and occasionally in tree hollows or under tree bark near its rocky habitat.

Conservation and status:

IUCN Red List Category and Criteria: Listed as Endangered (EN) under criteria B1ab(v) due to its restricted range (approximately 4,000 km²) and the impact of overharvesting for food. Its population is in decline, primarily due to unsustainable hunting.
Threats: The primary threat to Gekko badenii is overexploitation, as it is hunted for food. Habitat degradation also poses a risk, but the most significant pressure comes from human collection.
Conservation actions: Protection efforts are needed to curb overharvesting, and further research is required to monitor the population and explore possible conservation strategies.