Canh’s Gecko – Gekko canhi – Rösler, Nguyen, Van Doan, Ho, Nguyen & Ziegler, 2010

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Science name: Gekko canhi – Rösler, Nguyen, Van Doan, Ho, Nguyen & Ziegler, 2010

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

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

Description:

Physical characteristics: Gekko canhi is a medium-sized gecko species with a snout-vent length (SVL) of less than 100 mm. Its tail is round and not thickened at the base. The gecko has 12–14 supralabials, 10–13 infralabials, and 47–50 interorbital scales. It lacks webbing between its toes and has tubercles on its shanks and tail. Males have five precloacal pores, and both males and females possess tubercles on their tails.

Distribution and habitat:

Elevation: Found at elevations ranging from 200 to 1,500 meters above sea level.
Area: Gekko canhi is native to northern Vietnam, specifically in the provinces of Lang Son (Huu Lien, Huu Lung) and Lao Cai (Sa Pa).
Habitat: This species inhabits primary and secondary forests, where it can be found on limestone rocks. It is well-adapted to forest environments and can tolerate moderate forest disturbance.

Behaviour and ecology:

Lifestyle: This species is terrestrial and nocturnal, typically hiding in the crevices of limestone rocks during the day. It emerges at night to forage for insects and other small invertebrates.
Reproduction: Gekko canhi is oviparous, with females laying eggs in safe, concealed areas like rock crevices or similar sheltered environments.

Conservation and status:

IUCN Red List Category and Criteria: Listed as Least Concern (LC) due to its stable population, adaptability to disturbed habitats, and absence of major threats.
Threats: There are no significant known threats to the population. However, monitoring is recommended due to potential localized habitat destruction from forest degradation or human activities.
Conservation actions: Continued protection of its forest habitats in northern Vietnam is essential. This species benefits from the protected areas in which it resides and shows resilience to moderate habitat disturbance. Regular population monitoring is advised.