Targeted conservation assessment of the climate-sensitive, poorly known Pilbara barking gecko (Underwoodisaurus seorsus)
Robert J. Audcent, Jules E. Farquhar, Ryan J. Ellis, David G. ChappleContext
Mesic-adapted species are disproportionately vulnerable to climate change due to their dependence on cool, stable microclimates generated by topographically complex habitats that are often limited in extent and connectivity in arid regions. Effective conservation of these species requires a comprehensive understanding of their ecological and physiological characteristics, and distribution-limiting factors.
Aims
To address knowledge gaps for the poorly known gecko Underwoodisaurus seorsus (Pilbara barking gecko), previously assessed as of Least Concern by the IUCN in 2017.
Methods
We combined field surveys with ecological niche modelling and analyses of microclimate and microhabitat use across elevational gradients. The resulting data were used to evaluate the species’ distribution, habitat preferences, vulnerability to climate, and overall conservation status against IUCN Red List criteria.
Key results
Based on existing and new records compiled in this study, the species’ extent of occurrence (EOO) is 16,631 km2, with fine-scale habitat mapping estimating an area of occupancy (AOO) of 3418 km2 within this range. Ecological niche models predicted severe contraction in suitable habitat driven by climate change, with near-complete loss of the species’ current macroclimatic niche by 2060 under all emission scenarios.
Conclusions
Based on these findings, U. seorsus qualifies for listing as Endangered under IUCN Criteria A3c and E, with climate change representing the principal threat, compounded by impacts from mining expansion, feral cat predation, and likely illegal collection.
Implications
We provide the first evidence-based conservation assessment of U. seorsus and more broadly underscore the value of targeted ecological studies to diagnose the status of poorly known species, even those initially regarded as of Least Concern.