Goniurosaurus yamashinae

(Aang et al., 2010)

Distribution:

Common name- Yingde leopard gecko

Found on the island of Kumejima, southwest of Okinawa.  

Currently the Goniurosaurus yamashinae population is critically endangered.

Goniurosaurus yamashinae is in the G. kuroiwae group of cave geckos.

Description:

G. yamashinae have a similar body shape to the common cave gecko. They have an overall length of about 15 centimeters (6 inches).  They have a black body color with 5 beautiful golden broad bands on their bodies.   A feature of G. hainanensis that stands out is the dark black eyes.    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. yamashinae are crepuscular (active at dawn and dust) and nocturnal.

Habitat:

The G. yamashinae 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