During recent fieldwork on Hon Tre Island in Vietnam, researchers have identified a new species of gecko. The discovery was detailed in a study published on September 24 in the journal ZooKeys. The team collected nine geckos from the genus Cyrtodactylus, commonly known as bent-toed geckos.
The newly identified species, named Cyrtodactylus arnei or the Arne bent-toed gecko, differs from previously known species both visually and genetically. According to the study, the gecko is medium-sized, measuring about three inches from head to butt with an additional four-inch tail. Its body is described as “moderately slender” with “slender and long” limbs and distinct toes. The coloration is chocolate brown with dark reticulated markings on its back, limbs, and tail; its belly and underside are cream-colored.
“The new species is named after Dr. Arne Schulze, Executive Director of the Zoological Society for Conservation of Species and Populations to honor his great commitment and support for herpetological research and conservation in Vietnam, in particular within the scope of the Zoo Species of the Year — The Gecko Conservation Campaign 2024,” researchers said.
The Arne bent-toed gecko was found during evening hours on rocky boulders near a small cave along a stream. The area features forests composed mainly of small hardwood trees and shrubs. This marks the fifth Cyrtodactylus species recorded in this province.
Hon Tre Island is located approximately one mile off Nha Trang city’s coast in southeastern Vietnam. While part of Hon Tre has been developed into resorts attracting tourists, other sections remain wild habitats for local wildlife such as this new gecko species.
Researchers noted that tourism development could pose risks to these ecosystems: “The island has recently become a popular tourist destination, and rapid tourism development will likely negatively impact the surrounding ecosystems,” they said. “Therefore, there is an urgent need for further studies to provide a better understanding of the new species’ population status, distribution range and anthropogenic (human-caused) threats.”
The research team consisted of Quyen Hanh Do, Hanh Thi Ngo, Truong Quang Nguyen, Minh Duc Le, Thomas Ziegler, Dang Trong Do and Cuong The Pham.
