Goniurosaurus lichtenfelderi

(Mocquard, 1897)

Distribution:

Common name- Lichtenfelder's gecko

Found in the southern China (including Hainan Island) and Vietnam.  However, the Chinese populations may belong to another species.  

Currently the Goniurosaurus lichetenfelderi population is considered 'vulnerable'.

Goniurosaurus lichtenfelderi is in the G. lichtenfelderi group of cave geckos.

Description:

G. hainanensis have a more compact or robust body shape. They have an overall length of about 14 centimeters (just under 6 inches).  They have a very dark body color with small ringed bands on their tails.   Goniurosaurus hainanensis and G. lichtenfelderi are often confused as they look very similar.  There is a slight size difference as G. hainanensis are about a half inch larger at adult size.  As well, G. lictenfelderi body color is more grey than G. hainanensis.  Finally, G. lictenfelderi body stripes are thinner than G. hainanensis.  The coloration of the juveniles differs from their parents as they display a very dark black body coloration with 4 bright orange bands across their body.   They typically live to around 10 years but may live as long as 15.  This is a very shy gecko and special setup considerations should be followed.  G. lictenfelderi are crepuscular (active at dawn and dust) and nocturnal.

Habitat:

The G. lichtenfelderi geckos can be found in forest areas featuring rocky areas of limestone.  It is found along streams with thick forest vegetation nearby.  Occasionally they can be found in caves as well.  These areas offer consistent high humidity and a cooler environment.   They will be found occasionally in cave areas but mostly feel more comfortable hiding beneath rocks, fallen wood, and within the leaf litter of the forest floor.   Note- they are found in a very specific microhabitats and generally in low population densities.

Husbandry and Breeding:

See Cave Gecko General Care.

Text and Photos: Wally Kern, Supreme Gecko