Science name: Gekko palmatus – Boulenger, 1907
Taxonomic: Animalia>> Chordata>> Reptilia>> Squamata >> Gekkonidae >> palmatus
Species status: Endemic ; IUCN status: LC (Least Concern)
Description: Physical characteristics: Gekko palmatus is a medium-sized gecko with a body adapted for an arboreal lifestyle. The species has distinctively webbed toes and fine, granular scales across its body. It is characterized by a slender body and limbs, with a flattened head. Supralabial scales number 11-12, and infralabial scales are 9-10. The coloration typically ranges from light to dark brown, with faint patterns or bands along the back and tail.
Coloration and Appearance: The gecko’s body is light brown, occasionally with darker bands or patterns along the dorsal side, and the tail shows alternating light and dark bands. The ventral side is paler, usually a whitish or cream color.
Distribution and habitat: Elevation: Found between 914 and 1,219 meters above sea level.
Area: Gekko palmatus is native to Vietnam, occurring in the provinces of Yen Bai, Lang Son (Mau Son Mountain), Vinh Phuc (Tam Dao), Quang Ninh (Cu Lao Phon Vong), and Quang Binh (Phong Nha-Ke Bang). Its type locality is the Man-son Mountains in Tonkin.
Habitat: This species inhabits primary and secondary tropical evergreen forests and can also be found in parkland or rural gardens where forest areas are available.
Behaviour and ecology: Lifestyle: Gekko palmatus is nocturnal and arboreal, spending its nights actively foraging for insects and other small arthropods in forested areas. During the day, it hides in tree crevices or under loose bark.
Reproduction: This species is oviparous, laying small clutches of two eggs. Eggs are typically attached to surfaces such as rocks or tree bark. The species’ reproductive season likely coincides with the warmer, wetter months.
Conservation and status: IUCN Red List Category and Criteria: Listed as Least Concern (LC) due to its wide distribution and adaptability to disturbed habitats.
Threats: There are no major threats currently identified for Gekko palmatus. However, habitat loss due to deforestation or land conversion could pose future risks to localized populations.
Conservation actions: Continued protection of forested habitats, particularly in areas like Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, is important for the conservation of this species. Monitoring of population trends and habitat quality is also recommended.
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