Hemidactylus depressus
Hemidactylus depressus, also known as the Sri Lanka leaf-nosed gecko or Kandyan gecko, is a species of gecko found exclusively on the island of Sri Lanka. This arboreal lizard is characterized by its large head, depressed tail with serrated edges, and distinctive dorsal markings. It inhabits trees, boulders, caves, and sometimes human dwellings, feeding primarily on insects.
Key Facts
- ›Endemic to Sri Lanka, with specific documented localities including Kandy and the Knuckles Mountain Range.
- ›Possesses a depressed tail with serrated lateral edges.
- ›Dorsal coloration is light brown to gray with dark transverse angular markings.
- ›Primarily arboreal, found on trees, boulders, and in caves.
- ›Diet consists of insects.
- ›Reproduces by laying two eggs at a time in sheltered locations.
Sri Lanka Leaf-Nosed Gecko, Kandyan Gecko
Sri Lanka
- Head Large With Large Granules, Especially On Snout.
- Mid-Ventrals Count 36–40.
- Digits Webbed At Base.
- Lamellae Under Fourth Toe Count 10–11.
- Tail Depressed, With Serrated Lateral Edges.
- Dorsum Light Brown To Gray, With 4-5 Dark Transverse Angular Markings.
- A Dark Canthal Stripe, Edged With A Pale One.
- Tail With Dark Cross Bars.
- Venter Grayish-Creamy.
Insects
Arboreal, Sometimes Enters Houses
About Hemidactylus depressus
Hemidactylus depressus, commonly known as the Sri Lanka leaf-nosed gecko or Kandyan gecko, is a species of gecko that is found only on the island of Sri Lanka. This lizard is characterized by its distinctive physical features, including a large head with granular scales, particularly on the snout, and a depressed tail with serrated edges. Its dorsal coloration typically ranges from light brown to gray, adorned with four to five dark, angular transverse markings and a dark stripe along the canthus, often bordered by a paler line. The tail also features dark crossbars, and its underside is a grayish-creamy hue.
Habitat and Ecology
This species is primarily arboreal, inhabiting the plains of Sri Lanka. It is commonly found on trees, boulders, and within caves. Hemidactylus depressus has also been observed to enter human dwellings. Its diet consists mainly of insects, making it an important component of the local ecosystem.
Reproduction
The reproductive cycle of Hemidactylus depressus involves laying two eggs at a time. These eggs are typically deposited in sheltered locations such as rock crevices, tree holes, or leaf litter. Egg-laying occurs between June and August, with hatchlings emerging in August and September.
Distribution
Hemidactylus depressus is endemic to Sri Lanka, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world. Its known range includes numerous localities across the island, such as Kantale, Giritale, Mankulam, Alutnuwara, Hunugalla, Elkaduwa, Matale, Rattota, Gammaduwa, Kandy, the Knuckles Mountain Range, Haragama, Wakwalla, Palatupana, Balangoda, and Vanathavilluwa.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common names for Hemidactylus depressus?
Hemidactylus depressus is commonly known as the Sri Lanka leaf-nosed gecko or the Kandyan gecko. These names reflect its geographic origin and a distinctive feature.
Where is the Hemidactylus depressus found?
This gecko is endemic to the island of Sri Lanka. It has been documented in various localities across the island, including Kantale, Giritale, Matale, Kandy, and the Knuckles Mountain Range.
What does Hemidactylus depressus eat?
The diet of Hemidactylus depressus comprises insects. As an insectivore, it plays a role in controlling insect populations within its habitat.
How does Hemidactylus depressus reproduce?
Reproduction involves laying two eggs at a time. These eggs are typically deposited in secure locations such as rock crevices, tree holes, or leaf litter.
What is the typical habitat of the Kandyan gecko?
The Kandyan gecko is an arboreal species, meaning it lives in trees. It is also found on boulders and in caves, and sometimes ventures into human houses.
What are the physical characteristics of Hemidactylus depressus?
It has a large head with prominent granules, especially on the snout. The digits are webbed at the base, and the tail is depressed with serrated edges. The dorsum is light brown to gray, marked with dark transverse angular patterns and a dark canthal stripe.
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