Roesler’s Bent-toed Gecko – Cyrtodactylus roesleri – Ziegler, Nazarov, Orlov, Nguyen, Vu, Dang, Dinh & Schmitz, 2010

Science name: Cyrtodactylus roesleri – Ziegler, Nazarov, Orlov, Nguyen, Vu, Dang, Dinh & Schmitz, 2010

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

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

Description:

Physical characteristics:
Cyrtodactylus roesleri is a small, slender gecko with a maximum snout-vent length (SVL) of 75.3 mm. Its body is covered in dorsal tubercles on the back of the head, body, hind limbs, and tail base. There are 34–40 ventral scales in longitudinal rows at midbody. Males possess a continuous series of 20–28 precloacal and femoral pores, while enlarged precloacal and femoral scales are present in both sexes. The tail features transversely enlarged subcaudal scales, and there are 5–8 postcloacal spurs in both males and females. The fourth toe is equipped with 17–21 subdigital lamellae.

Coloration and Appearance:
The dorsal surface of Cyrtodactylus roesleri is marked with a dark nuchal band and 4–5 irregular dark transverse bands between the limbs. The body is generally light brown, with dark brown markings on the back. The limbs and tail are similarly patterned, with the tail showing dark bands alternating with lighter segments. The ventral side is lighter in color, usually white or pale cream.

Distribution and habitat:

Elevation: Not specifically documented but found at elevations up to 2 meters above the ground on limestone karst formations.
Area: Cyrtodactylus roesleri is native to Vietnam, particularly recorded in Quang Binh Province, and also found in parts of Laos. Its type locality is near Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park in Vietnam.
Habitat: This species inhabits subtropical/tropical moist lowland forests and rocky areas, especially limestone karst formations. It is usually seen at night on karst outcrops, approximately 1 to 1.5 meters above the ground, and occurs in both primary and secondary forests.

Behaviour and ecology:

Lifestyle:
Cyrtodactylus roesleri is a nocturnal and terrestrial gecko that is often found on limestone cliffs and outcrops. It is observed on both rainy and sunny days, indicating adaptability to various weather conditions.

Reproduction:
This species is oviparous, laying eggs in natural crevices or under rocks during the reproductive season. Detailed reproductive data such as clutch size are yet to be fully documented.

Diet:
It primarily feeds on small insects and arthropods found in its limestone forest habitat.

Conservation and status:

IUCN Red List Category and Criteria:
Listed as Least Concern, Cyrtodactylus roesleri is currently not facing significant population declines or severe threats.

Threats:
Although it is relatively secure, habitat destruction due to deforestation and human activity in limestone areas could potentially threaten this species in the future.