Rare black tokay gecko found only in one state in Malaysia discovered during expedition

KANGAR, Aug 23 — A rare black tokay gecko, native to only Perlis in Malaysia, was discovered during a scientific biodiversity expedition in the Bukit Papan Forest Reserve and Kurong Batang (South) Forest Reserve near Kuala Perlis. Expedition leader Dr Razak Terhem, from Universiti Putra Malaysia's Faculty of Forestry and Environment, stated that while the species is not endemic to Perlis, it has only been recorded in the state, marking it as an exciting find at the expedition.

Perlis was identified as the southernmost distribution area for the black tokay gecko based on the expedition's research and data. The discovery highlights Perlis' unique biodiversity, influenced by microclimates, limestone formations, and forest ecosystems. The expedition also uncovered a potential new orchid species, several ginger species, including one in bloom after a 20-year hiatus, and over 120 fungi, including 33 new records for Perlis.

The expedition involved 105 researchers from local and international institutions, spanning various fields such as biodiversity, ecology, and forest resource management. The researchers aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the area's ecological and scientific value, aiding in forest management and conservation planning.