We are pleased to announce the exhibit of baby Ryukyu ground geckos a prefectural designated Natural Monument at the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium.  

≪(Juvenile) Ryukyu ground gecko≫
Scientific name: Goniurosaurus kuroiwae kuroiwae
English name: Ryukyu ground gecko

This primitive ground-dwelling gecko only inhabits Okinawa Main Island and surrounding areas. There are five subspecies in the adjacent islands, and closely related species in Kagoshima Prefecture. Its populations have decreased due to habitat degradation, illegal collecting, and invasive species. It is designated as a Natural Monument of Okinawa and as an Endangered species by the Ministry of the Environment and protected by several laws. 

This species is subject to the Ministry of the Environment’s “Act on Conservation of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora” which prohibits capturing and rearing of these species (Our facility was certified to rear them on April 11th, 2022). By rearing and conducting reproduction research at this facility with the purpose of conservation, we have successfully bred them for two consecutive years, and acquired new insights into its life cycle and reproduction. 

 

Location of the Exhibit

1st floor of the aquarium [Ryukyu Arc Riverside corner]

Exhibited individual

2 individuals  (One individual hatched on January 31st 2022, and the other individual hatched on October 7th 2022.)

Exhibition period

From April 29th (Saturday）, 2023 ～
※The exhibit may change depending on the condition of the animals.