Rhacodactylus leachianus

The specific name, leachianus, is in honor of English zoologist William Elford Leach.[2] Historically, there have been three recognized subspecies of R. leachianus (including the nominotypical subspecies): R. l. aubrianus, R. l. henkeli (first described by Seipp and Obst in 1994), and R. l. leachianus. However, based on recent molecular data, no populations of R. leachianus are granted subspecies status at the present time.[3][4]

Close-up of the New Caledonian giant gecko

At 14 inches (360 mm) total length (including tail), R. leachianus is the largest extant gecko in the world[5] and is considered an example of island gigantism. It has a heavy body, loose skin, and a small, stumpy tail. It is variable in color, coming in shades of mottled green, gray, and brown.[6]

R. leachianus is found in all of the southern and eastern portions of the main island of New Caledonia, as well as on several of the smaller islands in the group.

R. leachianus is an arboreal species, living in trees. It is crepuscular, but may come out to bask in the sun during the day.[6] It eats a diet of insects, spiders, small vertebrates, fruit, nectar, and sap.[6] Adult females of R. leachianus lay two eggs at a time, having up to 10 clutches per year.[6] R. leachianus can make a loud growling noise, and local people call it "the devil in the trees".[6]

Some of the indigenous Kanak people of New Caledonia fear Leach's giant gecko. This is because of an old superstition which purports that it has the ability to cling to a person's body and pull out that person's soul. [7]

Populations of the species R. leachianus have likely been reduced by habitat destruction and degradation. This process is still a threat to the species. It also faces predation by introduced species such as cats and various rodents. It is also poached. It can be electrocuted when it travels along power lines. This species is protected and it lives in several nature reserves.[3]

The New Caledonian giant gecko is propagated with captive breeding. Wild populations are protected. This species may live over 40 years in captivity.[8] It can be kept in a large aquarium. Breeding pairs can be housed together, but otherwise the animal can be aggressive to tankmates. As an arboreal species, it should be provided with simulated tree holes, in a tank with plenty of vertical space. A commercial gecko diet can be used. Live insects can be given as a supplement.[9]