Identification:
This newly discovered gecko species exhibits morphological characteristics similar to Cyrtodactylus catienensis, first identified in Cát Tiên National Park, Đồng Nai Province, in 2010. However, several identifying features and molecular biology comparisons differentiate the two species. Key characteristics include: an average body size, a tail that is longer than the body, and a snout-vent length of up to 65.9 mm. The dorsal surface displays light brown spots, and the nape exhibits dark bands that do not connect. The body is light brown with a single dark band behind the nape and four transverse dark bands on the body. There is one internasal scale and 16-19 rows of dorsal scales, and 41-44 rows of ventral scales. Males possess 6-8 precloacal pores, arranged contiguously, forming an angle. Both sexes have a cluster of enlarged scales in the precloacal region and 3-8 enlarged scales on the underside of each thigh. There are no femoral pores or precloacal grooves. Both males and females have 2 or 3 small white spines posterior to the cloaca. There are 14-19 subdigital lamellae on the fourth toe. The scales at the base of the tail are arranged in rings and are not expanded.
Biology and Ecology:
This nocturnal reptile species inhabits evergreen coastal forest habitats with stacked rock formations and is active only at night. Its diet consists of insects found in its habitat. It lays two eggs at the beginning of the rainy season annually. The species’ name reflects the location of its discovery.
Distribution:
This species is endemic to Vietnam, recently discovered at Mũi Cực Động in Khánh Hòa Province. It shares its habitat with Gekko truongi.