Hemidactylus anamallensis
Dravidogecko anamallensis, also known as the Anamalay Hill gecko, is a species of gecko native to the South Indian hills of Palni, Anamalai, and Tirunelveli. This species was reassigned to the genus Dravidogecko in 2019 following molecular phylogenetic studies that indicated a separate evolutionary origin from other Hemidactylus species.
Key Facts
- ›Native to the South Indian hills of Palni, Anamalai, and Tirunelveli.
- ›Also known by common names such as Anamalay gecko and Anaimalai dravidogecko.
- ›Reassigned to the genus Dravidogecko in 2019.
- ›Distinctive evolutionary origin identified through molecular phylogenetic studies.
- ›Belongs to the family Gekkonidae.
Anamalay Gecko, Anaimalai Dravidogecko, Anamalai Hill Gecko
India
Hills, South Indian Highlands
About Hemidactylus anamallensis
Dravidogecko anamallensis
Dravidogecko anamallensis, commonly known as the Anamalay gecko, is a species of gecko indigenous to the South Indian hills. It is specifically found in the Palni, Anamalai, and Tirunelveli regions. This species is also recognized by other common names, including the Anaimalai dravidogecko and the Anamalai Hill gecko, all referencing its native habitat.
Taxonomy and Classification
A significant taxonomic revision occurred in 2019 when studies in molecular phylogenetics indicated that Dravidogecko anamallensis had a distinct evolutionary origin separate from other species within the Hemidactylus genus. Based on these findings, the species was reassigned to the genus Dravidogecko. It belongs to the family Gekkonidae, a widely distributed family of geckos.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common names for Dravidogecko anamallensis?
Dravidogecko anamallensis is commonly referred to as the Anamalay gecko, the Anaimalai dravidogecko, or the Anamalai Hill gecko. These names reflect its geographic origin and taxonomic classification.
Where can Dravidogecko anamallensis be found?
This species of gecko is found in the South Indian hills, specifically in the regions of Palni, Anamalai, and Tirunelveli. These areas provide the natural habitat for the species.
Why was Dravidogecko anamallensis moved to the genus Dravidogecko?
In 2019, a study utilizing molecular phylogenetics suggested that Dravidogecko anamallensis had a separate evolutionary origin compared to other species within the Hemidactylus genus. This finding led to its reassignment.
What is the scientific classification of the Anamalay Hill gecko?
The Anamalay Hill gecko is scientifically classified under the genus Dravidogecko. Previously, it was considered part of the Hemidactylus genus before phylogenetic studies prompted its reclassification.
Related Lizards
Scincella bilineata
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Ablepharus
Ablepharus, commonly known as snake-eyed skinks, are small lizards distinguished by fused eyelids that prevent blinking, similar to snakes. They inhabit dry fields, hills, and rocky areas, often concealed within leaf litter. These skinks possess shiny, bronze scales and a characteristic dark stripe along their sides, feeding primarily on small insects and mollusks.
Anamalay gecko
The Anamalay gecko is a species of gecko native to the South Indian hills of Palni, Anamalai, and Tirunelveli. This species belongs to the genus Dravidogecko, which was re-established in 2019 based on molecular phylogenetic studies indicating a distinct evolutionary origin from other Hemidactylus species. Its natural habitat is within the mountainous regions of its distribution.