The Chinese cave gecko is one of four gecko species that are endemic to south China's Hainan Province. Covered in black with yellow banding and darker spots, the cave gecko inhabits rock crevices – which is the origin of its name. The patterns on its back merge into the surroundings to prevent it from being captured by predators.

In 1908, the Chinese cave gecko was discovered in the Jianfengling area of Hainan, but it was regarded the same species as another one in 1935 and written off. In 2000, the Chinese cave gecko was re-recognized as an independent species. It can be found in Lingshui, Sanya and other cities and counties in the province, and karst landforms and rainforests in Limu Mountain, Diaoluo Mountain and other areas. 

At present, only a small amount of information has been obtained about the species distribution, ecological habits and geographical relations. Its population is believed to be small, and only a few distribution points are known.

About 'Fantastic Species in Hainan' series:

The annual Boao Forum for Asia will soon be held in Bo'ao, south China's Hainan Province. Among the topics discussed will be "green development," which cannot be achieved without ecological protection. Hainan has the best preserved and largest contiguous tropical rainforest in the country, home to numerous creatures unique to the province. This series dives into Hainan, leading the audience to learn more about how the amazing species thriving here under the great protection efforts from all walks of life.

For more:

Fantastic Species in Hainan: Technology helps unveil mysterious Hainan black-crested gibbon

Fantastic Species in Hainan: The Haania vitalisi

Fantastic Species in Hainan: A close-up of phoenix damselfly

(Cover image designed by CGTN's Yu Peng)

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