Geckos (Gekkonidae) are a widespread and diverse family of lizards remarkable for their adhesive toe pads that allow them to climb smooth surfaces, their often intricate vocalizations, and predominantly nocturnal lifestyles. With over 1,500 species, geckos exhibit an astounding variety of forms, colors, and behaviors, making them one of the most fascinating groups within the Squamata.
- Adhesive toe pads enable geckos to scale walls and ceilings, using microscopic setae for unmatched grip.
- Many geckos produce distinctive vocal sounds, unlike most lizards.
- Most species are active at night (nocturnal) and have excellent night vision.
Adhesive toe pads, vocalizations, and nocturnal habits set geckos apart from other lizards.
The family *Gekkonidae* includes over 1,500 species.
Tokay Gecko (Gekko gecko)
The tokay gecko has a vivid blue-gray body with bright orange spots.
The tokay gecko (Gekko gecko) is one of the largest and most vocal geckos, famed for its striking blue-gray body marked by vibrant orange spots and a robust lifestyle. It can deliver a powerful bite when threatened and is known for its loud, distinctive mating calls that sound like "to-kay," which also inspire its common name.
- Native to Southeast Asia; successfully introduced elsewhere as an invasive species.
- Known for loud, unique vocalizations mainly during nighttime.
- Possesses one of the strongest bites among geckos.
The tokay gecko is native to Southeast Asia.
Notable traits of the tokay gecko include loud vocalizations, a powerful bite, and brightly colored spots.
Source Material
Author: Animal Diversity Web
Document: Tokay Gecko (*Gekko gecko*)
Date Published: 2024
Crested Gecko (Correlophus ciliatus)
Crested geckos possess eyelash-like crests and a prehensile tail.
Crested geckos are native to New Caledonia.
The crested gecko (Correlophus ciliatus) is notable for the fringed crests running from its eyes to its tail, giving it a "eyelash" effect. These geckos use their prehensile tails for climbing and balance. Once thought extinct, they were rediscovered in the 1990s and have since become popular pets due to their gentle nature and ease of care.
- Possess sticky toe pads and a prehensile tail for arboreal movement.
- Can regenerate their tails if lost, though not all individuals can fully regrow them.
Leopard Gecko (Eublepharis macularius)
Leopard geckos have eyelids and are more diurnal, unlike many other geckos.
Leopard geckos inhabit arid and semi-arid regions.
Unlike most geckos, the leopard gecko (Eublepharis macularius) has movable eyelids and lacks adhesive toe pads, relying instead on claws for traction. Native to the rocky deserts of Central Asia, they are primarily ground-dwellers and are active at dusk and dawn. Their striking spotted pattern and ease of care have made them popular in the pet trade.
- Use clawed toes instead of sticky pads for locomotion.
- Display a distinctive spotted pattern, reminiscent of a leopard's coat.
Conclusion
Geckos (Gekkonidae) are a highly diverse and adaptable group of lizards, distinguished by their extraordinary climbing abilities, unique vocalizations, and specialized behaviors. From the colorful and vocal tokay gecko to the charming crested and leopard geckos, their remarkable traits have fascinated scientists and reptile enthusiasts alike.
- Over 1,500 species of geckos display a vast range of adaptations and lifestyles.
- Adhesive toe pads, vocal communication, and nocturnality are key gecko innovations.
- Popular gecko examples include Gekko gecko (tokay), Correlophus ciliatus (crested), and Eublepharis macularius (leopard).