Cnemaspis indica
Oviparous (inferred from 'egg laying')
The Indian day gecko, also known as the Nilgiri dwarf gecko (Cnemaspis indica), is a diurnal, insectivorous species of rock-dwelling gecko. It inhabits the high-elevation grasslands and montane forests of the Western Ghats in South India, specifically areas like the Nilgiri Hills and Silent Valley National Park. This small gecko is characterized by its rock-dwelling nature and its presence in specific montane ecosystems.
Key Facts
- ›Found in high-elevation grasslands and montane forests of the Western Ghats.
- ›Diurnal and insectivorous diet.
- ›Rock-dwelling habitat.
- ›Native to South India, including Tamil Nadu and Kerala states.
- ›Also referred to as the Nilgiri dwarf gecko.
Indian Day Gecko, Nilgiri Dwarf Gecko
South India, Western Ghats
Small Gecko Species., Rock-Dwelling.
Insects
Diurnal, Insectivorous, Rock-Dwelling
About Cnemaspis indica
Cnemaspis indica: The Indian Day Gecko
The Indian day gecko, scientifically known as Cnemaspis indica, is a small, rock-dwelling lizard native to the Western Ghats mountain range in South India. This diurnal species is active during the day and primarily feeds on insects, earning it the common name "Indian day gecko." It is also referred to as the Nilgiri dwarf gecko, a name that highlights both its geographic distribution in the Nilgiri Hills and its relatively small size.
Habitat and Distribution
Cnemaspis indica is specifically found in the high-elevation zones, typically above 1800 meters, within the grasslands and montane forests of the Western Ghats. Its range includes well-known protected areas such as Mukurthi National Park in Tamil Nadu and Silent Valley National Park in Kerala. The species' preference for rocky environments within these elevated ecosystems dictates its specific habitat requirements.
Biology and Behavior
As a diurnal and insectivorous reptile, Cnemaspis indica spends its active hours foraging for insects among the rocks and vegetation of its montane home. While detailed information on its reproductive habits is limited in general accounts, specific observations have noted communal egg-laying by this species in Mukurthi National Park, suggesting a unique social dynamic during breeding periods. Further research would be needed to fully understand its life cycle, social structure, and specific adaptations to its unique high-altitude environment.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Indian day gecko found?
The Indian day gecko (Cnemaspis indica) is found in the high-elevation (> 1800 m asl) grasslands and montane forests of the Western Ghats in South India. This includes regions like the Nilgiri Hills and Silent Valley National Park in Tamil Nadu and Kerala states.
What does the Indian day gecko eat?
The Indian day gecko is insectivorous, meaning its diet consists primarily of insects. It is active during the day and hunts for its prey within its rocky habitat.
What are the common names for Cnemaspis indica?
Cnemaspis indica is commonly known as the Indian day gecko. It is also referred to as the Nilgiri dwarf gecko, reflecting its geographic location and small size.
What type of habitat does the Indian day gecko prefer?
This species prefers high-elevation grasslands and montane forests. As a rock-dwelling gecko, it is typically found in rocky areas within these environments.
Related Lizards
Indian day gecko
The Indian day gecko (Cnemaspis indica), also known as the Nilgiri dwarf gecko, is a small, rock-dwelling lizard found in the high-elevation grasslands and montane forests of India's Western Ghats. This diurnal and insectivorous species is characterized by its adaptation to rocky environments and is known to inhabit areas above 1800 meters in regions like the Nilgiri Hills and Silent Valley National Park.
Brookesia bekolosy
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Brookesia lineata
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