Listed as Vulnerable on the basis that it has an extent of occurrence of 17,970 km², it occurs as a severely fragmented population, and there is a continuing decline in the quality and extent of its habitat.

This species is endemic to Madagascar where it is known from scattered localities throughout the south of the island, at Ambatotsirongorongo (Ramanamanjato et al. 2002), Andohahela (Nussbaum et al. 1999), Antafoky (D'Cruze et al. 2009), Cap Sainte Marie, Petriky (Ramanamanjato et al. 2002), Sarodrano, Sept Lacs (D'Cruze et al. 2009), Zombitse, and Tsivanoa. It has been found at elevations between 40 and 100 m (D'Cruze et al. 2009). The gecko's extent of occurrence is estimated to be 17,970 km².

This is a rare species. Based on the patchy distribution of, and declines in the extent of, suitable dry forest habitat the population is thought to be both severely fragmented and declining.

This species is active on the ground in intact dry forest and coastal areas, and also inhabits riparian areas (D'Cruze et al. 2009), which occur as isolated fragments throughout its range. It has not been found in heavily disturbed forest, and its ability to tolerate any degree of habitat modification is unclear.

This species is confined to intact forests which are at risk from timber extraction for charcoal production, and land clearance for slash and burn agriculture, both of which are ongoing throughout the species' range.

This species is not utilized or traded.

This species occurs in three protected areas, at both coastal and inland sites. More research is needed to establish this species' area of occupancy, population trends and ecology. Studies are needed to determine whether this species is tolerant of low or moderate degrees of habitat disturbance. Protection of other areas of forest where this species is known to occur is recommended to ensure its continued persistence.