Bauer’s leaf-toed gecko – Dixonius aaronbaueri – Ngo & Ziegler, 2009

Science name: Dixonius aaronbaueri – Ngo & Ziegler, 2009

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

Species status: Endemic ; IUCN status: LC (Least Concern)

Description: Physical characteristics: Dixonius aaronbaueri is a small gecko with a maximum snout-vent length (SVL) of 38.6 mm. It features a dark canthal stripe that terminates at the back of the head (occiput), dark bars on the lips, and a yellowish-orange dorsum with an unpatterned yellowish-orange tail. The gecko has 8–9 supralabials, with the sixth or seventh in the midorbital position. Males possess five precloacal pores, and the species has 18–19 ventral scale rows at midbody.

Coloration and Appearance: This gecko has a bold dark stripe along the canthus, reddish lips, and a patternless yellowish-orange body and tail. The coloration helps it blend in with its surroundings in sandy or forested environments.

Distribution and habitat: Elevation: Found at elevations between 0 and 5 meters above sea level.
Area: Dixonius aaronbaueri is endemic to southern Vietnam, particularly recorded from Nui Chua National Park in Ninh Thuan Province and near Mui Ne in Binh Thuan Province.
Habitat: This species inhabits various habitats including open areas in coastal regions, lowland forests, and plantations. It has been found in semi-arid climates near streams, sandy ground with fallen leaves, and plantations surrounded by low vegetation.

Behaviour and ecology: Lifestyle: Dixonius aaronbaueri is primarily nocturnal, being found in open and coastal areas as well as in plantations. It may be encountered close to water sources, such as streams, and has been recorded near rotting logs and ponds. The species thrives in semi-arid climates, particularly those affected by strong seasonal winds.

Reproduction: The species is oviparous, laying eggs as part of its reproductive cycle, although further details on its breeding habits are yet to be documented.

Diet: As a gecko, it likely feeds on small invertebrates like insects that are common in its habitat, although specific dietary studies are lacking.

Conservation and status: IUCN Red List Category and Criteria: Listed as Least Concern (LC) due to its occurrence within protected areas, a stable population, and no significant threats currently affecting the species.

Threats: There are no major threats identified for this species at present, as it exists in both natural and human-modified environments, including plantations.

Conservation actions: Continued monitoring is recommended to ensure habitat stability, especially considering the limited known range of the species to specific locations in southern Vietnam.