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.
Key Facts
- ›Diurnal and insectivorous reptile.
- ›Rock-dwelling gecko found in high-elevation habitats (over 1800m).
- ›Native to the Western Ghats mountain ranges of South India.
- ›Inhabits grasslands and montane forests.
- ›Known to occur in Nilgiri Hills, Ooty, Mukurthi National Park, and Silent Valley National Park.
- ›Communal egg-laying has been observed.
Nilgiri Dwarf Gecko
India
Small, Rock-Dwelling Gecko., Adapted To High-Elevation Habitats.
Insects
Diurnal ., Insectivorous ., Rock-Dwelling., Communal Egg Laying Observed.
About Indian day gecko
The Indian Day Gecko
The Indian day gecko, scientifically classified as Cnemaspis indica and also known as the Nilgiri dwarf gecko, is a small, diurnal lizard species native to the Western Ghats mountain range in South India. This gecko is specifically adapted to life in high-elevation environments, typically found in grasslands and montane forests at altitudes exceeding 1800 meters above sea level.
Habitat and Distribution
The natural range of the Indian day gecko is confined to the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot. It has been documented in several significant protected areas, including the Nilgiri Hills, with notable locations such as Ooty and Mukurthi National Park in Tamil Nadu, and the Silent Valley National Park in Kerala. These regions provide the cool, moist conditions and rocky substrates that the species requires.
Biology and Behavior
As an insectivore, the Indian day gecko actively hunts insects within its habitat. Its diurnal nature means it is primarily active during daylight hours, a characteristic that distinguishes it from many other gecko species which are nocturnal. Interestingly, observations have noted communal egg-laying behavior among individuals in Mukurthi National Park, suggesting a social aspect to their reproductive strategies where multiple females may utilize the same nesting sites.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Indian day gecko?
The Indian day gecko, scientifically known as Cnemaspis indica, is a species of gecko native to South India. It is a diurnal and insectivorous lizard that lives among rocks in high-altitude grasslands and forests.
Where does the Indian day gecko live?
This gecko is found in the Western Ghats mountain ranges of South India. Specifically, it inhabits high-elevation areas, typically above 1800 meters, in grasslands and montane forests of states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
What does the Indian day gecko eat?
The Indian day gecko is an insectivore, meaning its diet consists of insects. It actively hunts for these prey items within its rocky habitat.
What are some notable locations for the Indian day gecko?
Key areas where the Indian day gecko has been documented include the Nilgiri Hills, with specific mentions of Ooty and Mukurthi National Park in Tamil Nadu, and Silent Valley National Park in Kerala.
Are there any interesting reproductive behaviors known for this species?
Yes, communal egg-laying has been recorded for the Indian day gecko in Mukuruthi National Park. This indicates that multiple females may lay their eggs in the same location.
Related Lizards
Cnemaspis indica
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.
Brookesia bekolosy
Brookesia bekolosy, also known as the Bekolosy leaf chameleon, is a species of chameleon found exclusively in Madagascar. Described in 1995, this lizard is characterized by its limited known geographic range and is currently classified as Endangered by the IUCN due to threats like logging. Its specific habitat and behaviors remain largely undocumented.
Brookesia lineata
Brookesia lineata, commonly known as the lined leaf chameleon, is a chameleon species endemic to Madagascar. Discovered in 1995, this species is characterized by its association with specific protected reserves and is currently classified as endangered due to threats from agricultural practices. Its name derives from the Latin word for "line" or "stripe."