The [Luokeng](https://shaoguantea.com/glossary/luokeng/) Crocodile Lizard (罗坑鳄蜥, Shinisaurus crocodilurus) is a living fossil species that has survived since the age of dinosaurs. It is one of China’s first-class nationally protected endangered species and a flagship species of the Luokeng Nature Reserve in [Qujiang](https://shaoguantea.com/glossary/qujiang/) District, [Shaoguan](https://shaoguantea.com/glossary/shaoguan/).
The crocodile lizard is found only in southern China and northern Vietnam. Its presence in the Luokeng Nature Reserve is a powerful indicator of the area’s pristine ecosystem — the same ecosystem that sustains over 40,000 wild ancient tea trees. The reserve was initially established to protect the crocodile lizard and its habitat, and later upgraded to national-level protection status, creating a sanctuary for both the reptile and the ancient tea trees that grow in its misty mountain forests.