About the Reef Gecko

Bringing Awareness to the Plight of the Reef Gecko

(Sphaerodactylus notatus notatus)

The reef gecko is a small but remarkable species native to the fragile coastal ecosystems of Florida. Despite its size, this unique reptile has become an important symbol of the growing environmental challenges facing low-lying habitats across the state.

In February 2026, Florida’s wildlife agency officially voted to classify the reef gecko as a state-level threatened species. This milestone decision reflects increasing concern among scientists and conservationists about the future of the species and the rapidly changing environments it depends on for survival.

The agency’s proposed conservation action plan includes several important initiatives focused on protecting the reef gecko and its habitat. These efforts include expanding and preserving critical habitat areas, supporting science-based research, and improving long-term monitoring of population health and environmental impacts.

The decision follows years of scientific warnings about the species’ vulnerability to climate-related threats. In 2021, researchers cautioned that much of the reef gecko’s habitat could be submerged by rising sea levels before the end of the century, placing the species at significant risk of decline.

Protecting the reef gecko is about more than preserving a single species — it is about safeguarding the delicate ecosystems that support countless forms of life along Florida’s coastlines. Through education, awareness, and conservation efforts, we can help ensure that future generations will continue to witness the biodiversity and natural beauty these habitats provide.