Possible Incursions of Gekko hokouensis (Reptilia: Squamata) into Non-native Area: An Example from Yakushima Island of the Northern Ryukyus, Japan

Research on Yakushima Island reveals that the gecko species Gekko hokouensis is likely an introduced, non-native species, while G. yakuensis is the island's native gekkonid. Field surveys found G. hokouensis only in four villages with historical or current maritime links to regions where it is endemic, suggesting multiple accidental introductions. Hybridization between the two species was also detected, indicating potential genetic introgression. The study highlights the impact of human activity on island biodiversity and suggests that G. yakuensis may be experiencing genetic influence from its invasive counterpart.

TODA, M., & HIKIDA, T. (2011). Possible Incursions of Gekko hokouensis (Reptilia: Squamata) into Non-native Area: An Example from Yakushima Island of the Northern Ryukyus, Japan. Current Herpetology, 30(1), 33–39. https://doi.org/10.5358/hsj.30.33