Huu Lien Forest Crested Lizard – Goniurosaurus huuliensis – Orlov, Ryabov, Nguyen, Nguyen & Ho, 2008

Science name: Goniurosaurus huuliensis – Orlov, Ryabov, Nguyen, Nguyen & Ho, 2008

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

Species status: Endemic ; IUCN status: CR (Critically Endangered Species)

Description: Physical characteristics: Goniurosaurus huuliensis is a medium-sized gecko with a long, slender body. It has a wide, rounded nuchal loop at the back of the neck, three wide, immaculate dorsal body bands, and reddish irises. The species has granular scales and large granular tubercles on its back. Each tubercle is surrounded by 12–13 smaller granular scales. It features 10–11 supralabial scales and 9–11 infralabial scales. The body bands are distinct and immaculate, while spots are primarily noticeable on the head and sides.

Coloration and Appearance: The gecko has a long, slim body with wide bands across its back. The body is mostly spotless, except for some spots on the head and belly. Its reddish iris and immaculate dorsal bands are distinctive features.

Distribution and habitat: Elevation: Found at elevations between 300 and 370 meters above sea level.
Area: Goniurosaurus huuliensis is only known from the Huu Lien Nature Reserve, located in the Huu Lung district, Lang Son Province, northeastern Vietnam. This species inhabits isolated karst mountains within the reserve.
Habitat: This species is associated with rocky karst cliffs overgrown with forest vegetation. It is found in limestone environments and relies on forested habitats for survival. While it can live on cliffs, it needs forest cover to persist.

Behaviour and ecology: Lifestyle: Goniurosaurus huuliensis is nocturnal and cryptic, active primarily at night. It has been recorded during the dry season, inhabiting karst cliffs and rocky outcrops in forested areas. During the day, it hides among leaves and rocks. This species depends on forested karst environments and is sensitive to habitat loss.
Reproduction: The species is oviparous, meaning it lays eggs. Specific reproductive details, such as clutch size and breeding season, are not well-documented.

Conservation and status: IUCN Red List Category and Criteria: Listed as Critically Endangered (B1ab(iii)) due to its very limited range and ongoing habitat degradation.

Threats: The primary threats to Goniurosaurus huuliensis include habitat loss due to deforestation and land conversion. Collection for the international pet trade also poses a significant threat, and the species’ highly restricted range makes it vulnerable to environmental changes.

Conservation actions: Urgent conservation actions are needed to protect the species’ habitat within the Huu Lien Nature Reserve. Preventing illegal collection and protecting forested karst landscapes are essential for the long-term survival of this species. Further surveys are also necessary to assess population size and trends.