Hemidactylus malcolmsmithi
Smith's bent-toed gecko (Hemidactylus malcolmsmithi) is a small species of lizard endemic to northern India. Primarily found in shrubland and forest habitats, this gecko is characterized by its size, with a maximum recorded snout-to-vent length of 5.4 cm, and a distinctive series of femoral pores. It reproduces by laying eggs.
Key Facts
- ›Endemic to northern India, specifically the Punjab region.
- ›Maximum recorded snout-to-vent length (SVL) of 5.4 cm.
- ›Features 10–14 femoral pores on the ventral surface of each thigh.
- ›Inhabits shrubland and forest environments.
- ›Reproduces by laying eggs (oviparous).
Smith's Bent-Toed Gecko, Malcolm's Bow-Fingered Gecko
India
- Small Species For Its Genus.
- Maximum Recorded Snout-To-Vent Length of 5.4 cm .
- Features A Series of 10–14 Femoral Pores On the Ventral Surface of Each Thigh.
- the Series of Femoral Pores Are Separated By Two Poreless Scales.
About Hemidactylus malcolmsmithi
Smith's Bent-Toed Gecko
Smith's bent-toed gecko, scientifically known as Hemidactylus malcolmsmithi and also referred to as Malcolm's bow-fingered gecko, is a species of lizard belonging to the Gekkonidae family. This species is endemic to India, with its known range primarily situated in the northern part of the country, specifically within the Indian state of Punjab. The type locality, the original site where the species was described, is the Beas River basin in Punjab.
Habitat and Description
The preferred natural habitats for Hemidactylus malcolmsmithi include shrubland and forest environments. This gecko is considered a small species within its genus. Its maximum recorded snout-to-vent length (SVL) is 5.4 cm (approximately 2.1 inches). A distinctive physical characteristic of this species is the presence of a series of 10 to 14 femoral pores on the ventral surface of each thigh. These two series of pores are separated by two scales that do not possess pores.
Taxonomy and Reproduction
Historically, Hemidactylus malcolmsmithi was first described within the genus Gymnodactylus. It has also been placed in the genus Cyrtodactylus at various times. The specific name, malcolmsmithi, honors the British herpetologist Malcolm Arthur Smith. In terms of reproduction, Hemidactylus malcolmsmithi is oviparous, meaning it reproduces by laying eggs. Details regarding its breeding behavior, clutch size, or incubation periods are not extensively documented in available records.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scientific name for Smith's bent-toed gecko?
The scientific name for Smith's bent-toed gecko is Hemidactylus malcolmsmithi. It has also been classified under the genera Gymnodactylus and Cyrtodactylus in the past.
Where is Hemidactylus malcolmsmithi found?
Hemidactylus malcolmsmithi is found in northern India, specifically in the Indian state of Punjab. The type locality is recorded as the Beas River basin.
What kind of habitats does Smith's bent-toed gecko prefer?
The preferred natural habitats of Hemidactylus malcolmsmithi are shrubland and forest. These environments likely provide suitable cover and resources for the species.
What are the physical characteristics of Hemidactylus malcolmsmithi?
Hemidactylus malcolmsmithi is a small gecko, with a maximum recorded snout-to-vent length of 5.4 cm. A notable physical feature is the presence of 10–14 femoral pores on the ventral side of each thigh, separated by two poreless scales.
How does Hemidactylus malcolmsmithi reproduce?
Hemidactylus malcolmsmithi is oviparous, meaning it reproduces by laying eggs. Further details on its reproductive cycle are not extensively documented.
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