Correlophus

A small but captivating group of geckos found in the tropical rainforests of New Caledonia, a remote group of islands in the South Pacific. This genus is best known for housing some of the most beloved species in the reptile world, including the famous Crested gecko (Correlophus ciliatus) and its lesser-known relatives, such as the Chahoua gecko (Correlophus chahoua).

One of the defining features of these geckos is their arboreal lifestyle. They spend most of their time in trees, relying on specialized toe pads and prehensile tails to climb and cling to various surfaces. These adaptations make them expert navigators of their forest habitat, where they hunt for insects and consume ripe fruits and nectar. Their nocturnal nature means they are most active at night, using their excellent vision to forage and avoid predators.

The most famous member of this genus, the Crested gecko, is instantly recognizable by its spiny, crest-like scales running from its eyes down to its tail. This feature is less pronounced in other species of Correlophus, but all share a similarly robust body shape and large, expressive eyes. Another remarkable species, the Chahoua gecko, is often referred to as the “mossy gecko” because of its mottled green and brown coloration, which helps it blend seamlessly into tree bark and foliage.

Interestingly, the Crested gecko, the flagship species of this genus, was believed to be extinct until it was rediscovered in 1994. This remarkable comeback has drawn attention to the ecological richness of New Caledonia and the importance of preserving it. In captivity, these geckos have become incredibly popular due to their gentle temperament and low-maintenance care, further raising awareness about their wild counterparts.