Current conservation status and ecological characteristics of critically endangered Ta Kou Bent-Toed Gecko (Cyrtodactylus takouensis) in Vietnam

05/12/2025

One of the greatest challenges in reptile conservation today is the lack of fundamental biological data, leaving more than 90% of species unevaluated or insufficiently protected. The Ta Kou Bent-Toed Gecko (Cyrtodactylus takouensis) is a critically endangered endemic species of Vietnam. The species is only known from initial descriptions of its morphology and distribution, with no further in-depth ecological or population studies to date. Acknowledging this critical knowledge gap, a team of scientists from the Institute of Biology under the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology and the University of Science (Vietnam National University), in collaboration with the University of Cologne and Cologne Zoo, conducted a field survey to assess population status, ecological characteristics, and potential threats to the species, thereby proposing practical conservation measures to prevent its possible extinction in the near future.

The Cyrtodactylus takouensis is endemic to Vietnam and was first discovered in the Ta Kou Mountain area in Binh Thuan province. It is currently listed as Critically Endangered (CR) in the IUCN Red List due to its narrow distribution range and low population size. To provide scientific evidence for conservation, the research team conducted fieldwork to evaluate ecological traits, population status, and factors influencing the species.

Individual and habitat of the Cyrtodactylus takouensis

Surveys were conducted on Ta Kou Mountain, where the species inhabits mostly granite rock formations at elevations between 265–694 metres above sea level. A total of 243 individuals were recorded, including 148 individuals in the dry season and 95 in the rainy season. Population size was estimated at approximately 315 individuals in the dry season and 180 in the rainy season. The average density ranged from about 12–13 individuals per km², indicating a small and spatially restricted population.

The species was found solely on bare granite rocks or rocks covered with moss, lichens, and small roots. Ambient temperatures at recorded locations ranged from 22–30°C, with average humidity of 62–82%. Most individuals were active at night, typically observed hanging on rock surfaces or in resting positions. The average forest canopy cover was 86–90%, reflecting strong dependence on habitats with high vegetation cover.

Habitat characteristics and behaviour of the Cyrtodactylus takouensis

Tourism activities and infrastructure development on Ta Kou Mountain, especially the cable car system and the increasing number of visitors, have disturbed the species’ habitat. Additionally, plastic waste and the presence of parasites were identified as potential threats to the population. Survey transects showed significantly lower individual density in areas with high tourist activity.

Threats to the species’ population

Based on the findings, scientists from the Institute of Biology emphasised that urgent conservation measures for the Cyrtodactylus takouensis population are essential. These include strengthening monitoring and patrolling in granite rock habitats, restricting tourist access to the core zone of the protected area, and raising public awareness about the importance of protecting natural habitats. Furthermore, more in-depth research is needed on the impacts of parasites and climate change on the species’ health and survival capacity.

Translated by Tuyet Nhung
Link to Vietnamese version

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