Cat Ba Leopard Gecko – Goniurosaurus catbaensis – Ziegler, Truong, Schmitz, Stenke & Rösler, 2008

Science name: Goniurosaurus catbaensis – Ziegler, Truong, Schmitz, Stenke & Rösler, 2008

Taxonomic:  Animalia>> Chordata>> Reptilia>> Squamata >> Eublepharidae >> catbaensis

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

Description: Physical characteristics: Goniurosaurus catbaensis is a medium-sized gecko with a slender body and limbs, reaching a snout-vent length (SVL) of 84 to 111 mm. Its body is characterized by three to four thin, immaculate dorsal bands bordered by dark lines, without dark spots. The head has a dark marbled pattern, and its iris is orange-brown. The species has 8–9 supralabial scales and 6–8 sublabial scales. It features 16–21 precloacal pores in males, and the digits are long and slender with wide subdigital lamellae.

Coloration and Appearance: The body is brown with gray streaks and yellow spots near the flanks. It has a yellowish nuchal loop at the back of its neck and three to four thin yellow bands across its back.

Distribution and habitat: Elevation: Found between 10 to 20 meters above sea level.
Area: Goniurosaurus catbaensis is endemic to Vietnam, specifically known from Cat Ba Island in Hai Phong City and possibly Quang Ninh Province. The species is found in karst landscapes within the Cat Ba Archipelago.
Habitat: This species inhabits limestone cliffs, rocky outcrops, and forested caves. It is closely associated with karst forest habitats and typically found near cave entrances or on limestone cliffs.

Behaviour and ecology: Lifestyle: Goniurosaurus catbaensis is nocturnal, typically active between 21 to 32°C and at humidity levels of 70-99%. It is primarily found on limestone cliffs or in forested caves. The species prefers areas with dense canopy cover (80-100%) and does not occur in more open forest environments.
Reproduction: The species is oviparous, laying eggs in crevices or near cave entrances. It is known to have clutches of 2 eggs.

Conservation and status: IUCN Red List Category and Criteria: Listed as Endangered (B1ab(ii,iii)+2ab(ii,iii)) due to its limited range and ongoing habitat loss.

Threats: Habitat degradation and disturbance from tourism are major threats to the species’ survival. The small range of its population makes it highly susceptible to environmental changes and habitat destruction, particularly from expanding human activities.

Conservation actions: Protecting the karst habitat on Cat Ba Island is critical for the species’ conservation. Habitat protection measures and further research to assess population trends and threats are necessary.