Science name: Cnemaspis aurantiacopes – Grismer & Ngo, 2007
Taxonomic: Animalia>> Chordata>> Reptilia>> Squamata >> Gekkonidae >> aurantiacopes
Species status: Endemic ; IUCN status: LC (Least Concern)
Description:
Physical characteristics: Adult males can reach a snout-vent length (SVL) of 58.4 mm. It has 9-11 supralabial scales and 8-10 infralabial scales. Dorsal scales are smooth, while the tail has rows of tubercles. Ventral scales are smooth, and the species lacks precloacal and femoral pores.
Coloration:
Males: The dorsal side of the body is light yellow to saffron with irregular rust-colored markings extending from the nape to the base of the tail. The head is reddish-brown with three wide, reddish-brown stripes extending from the postorbital region to the shoulders. The limbs are saffron-colored with lighter spots. The ventral side of the neck, body, and base of the tail is orange.
Females: Females have a more muted yellow-gray coloration on the back, with diamond-shaped and darker markings.
Distribution and habitat:
Elevation: Found at elevations of 10 to 30 meters.
Area: Endemic to Vietnam, specifically from the type locality at Hon Dat Hill, Hon Dat District, Kien Giang Province.
Habitat: Cnemaspis aurantiacopes inhabits outcrops of granitic rocks and caves within highly disturbed, semi-deciduous forest. It is also found in orchards. The species prefers sheltering in caves and does not often venture onto open rock surfaces.
Behaviour and ecology:
Lifestyle: Cnemaspis aurantiacopes is diurnal and inhabits small caves and rock crevices in lowland coastal areas. It preys on insects within its habitat and is active during the day.
Reproduction: Oviparous, laying two eggs in rock crevices or tree hollows during the early rainy season.
Activity patterns: It is commonly found at night inside caves, rarely venturing onto exposed surfaces of rocks.
Conservation and status:
IUCN Red List Category and Criteria: [Data Deficient] Threats: The species is potentially threatened by habitat destruction, as it seems to be restricted to a small geographic area near the type locality.
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