The "Ryukyu grounded gecko" appears to be a lizard, but is classified as a member of the gecko family. Its overall length is approximately 15-18 cm. It hides in rock crevasses in the daytime and become active after dark. Since it has some of the pristine features of a gecko family member such as undeveloped eyelids, it is called a living fossil. Members of the "Tokagemodoki family have different markings on their bodies depending on where they live and are divided into the following five subspecies: Ryukyu ground gecko (Okinawa proper, Kouri Island, Sesoko Island), Oriental ground gecko (Ie Island, Tokashiki Island, Tonaki Island, Aka- island), Kume ground gecko (Kume Island), Toyama's ground gecko (Iheya Island), Banded ground gecko (Tokuno-shima).
If you know of any other endangered or rare plants or animals on Okinawa or the surrounding islands please send us what you know and pictures if possible. Thanks.
