Grossmann’s gecko – Gekko grossmanni – Günther, 1994

Science name: Gekko grossmanni – Günther, 1994

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

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

Description:

Physical characteristics: Gekko grossmanni is a medium-sized gecko with a snout-vent length (SVL) ranging from 71 to 86 mm and a tail length between 84.8 and 101.6 mm. The head is longer than wide, with a head length of 20 to 29 mm. It has 11–12 supralabial scales and 9–10 infralabial scales. The dorsal side features small, unequal tuberculate scales scattered among the smaller body scales. The species has a light grayish-brown body with yellow spots and dark brown patterns.
Coloration and Appearance: The body exhibits rows of 7–8 light grayish spots along the dorsal midline, with additional spots on the flanks. The tail has lighter and darker alternating bands, with the ventral side of the body being lighter.

Distribution and habitat:

Elevation: Found from sea level up to approximately 200 meters above sea level.
Area: Gekko grossmanni is only known from Khanh Hoa Province in southern Vietnam. Its confirmed occurrence is in Hon Ba Nature Reserve, though it may be more widespread within the region.
Habitat: This species inhabits monsoon evergreen forests and is associated with rocky outcrops. It has been observed in sympatry with Cyrtodactylus yangbayensis within its habitat.

Behaviour and ecology:

Lifestyle: This nocturnal species is arboreal and is often found on rocky outcrops. It is active at night, foraging for insects and other arthropods, while during the day, it hides in rocky crevices.
Reproduction: Gekko grossmanni is oviparous, laying clutches of 2 eggs. The incubation period lasts 84-85 days, with hatchlings measuring 29-30 mm upon emergence. The species’ reproductive season typically coincides with the start of the rainy season.

Conservation and status:

IUCN Red List Category and Criteria: Listed as Data Deficient (DD) due to insufficient data on its population and potential threats.
Threats: While it appears common in its known habitat, the species is harvested for the international pet trade. Further research is needed to determine if other subpopulations exist and assess the impact of collection on the wild population.
Conservation actions: Protecting forest habitats and reducing the exploitation of this species for the pet trade are key for its conservation. Monitoring population trends in Hon Ba Nature Reserve is recommended.