Truong’s Gecko – Gekko truongi – Phung & Ziegler, 2011

Science name: Gekko truongi – Phung & Ziegler, 2011

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

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

Description: Physical characteristics: Gekko truongi is a medium-sized gecko with a maximum snout-vent length (SVL) of 95.9 mm. It has 13–15 supralabial scales and 45–58 scales between the eyes. There are no dorsal tubercles, and the body is covered with 131–143 midbody scales. It has 35–36 ventral scales and 160–172 scales between the mental and cloacal slit. Males have 10 or 11 precloacal pores, and subdigital lamellae number 11–13 on the first toe and 15–17 on the fourth toe. The body exhibits a lateral fold, and the tail features dark bands.

Coloration and Appearance: The dorsal surface is gray with scattered yellow spots, two W-shaped dark bands on the occiput and neck, and four dark blotches on the body. The tail is marked with alternating dark bands.

Distribution and habitat: Elevation: The elevational range of Gekko truongi is currently unknown.
Area: Gekko truongi is only known from Cuc Dong Cape in Van Ninh District, Khanh Hoa Province, southern Vietnam. Its distribution appears restricted to this lowland area.
Habitat: This species inhabits primary coastal vegetation, often found on rocky outcrops. It shares its habitat with other species of bent-toed geckos, such as Cyrtodactylus cucdongensis and Cyrtodactylus kingsadai, in coastal forest environments.

Behaviour and ecology: Lifestyle: This species is nocturnal and typically active at night, foraging on rocky surfaces within its forest habitat. During the day, it hides in narrow rock crevices. Its diet consists of insects and other small invertebrates found in its coastal environment.

Reproduction: Gekko truongi is oviparous, laying clutches of two eggs in rock crevices or cavities at the start of the rainy season each year.

Conservation and status: IUCN Red List Category and Criteria: Listed as Data Deficient (DD) due to insufficient data on its population size, distribution, and potential threats.

Threats: The species’ restricted range and unknown population trends make it vulnerable to habitat disturbance, particularly from tourism and development in coastal areas. Further research is needed to assess these potential threats.

Conservation actions: Protecting its coastal habitat and monitoring population trends are essential for the conservation of Gekko truongi. Further research is needed to clarify its distribution and understand its ecological requirements.