Lepidodactylus lugubris
Lepidodactylus lugubris, commonly known as the mourning gecko or common smooth-scaled gecko, is a widespread lizard species found in coastal regions of the Indian and Pacific oceans. These geckos are characterized by their ability to change color, typically appearing tan with dark spots or stripes, and are notable for being an all-female species that reproduces via parthenogenesis. They are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of insects, fruits, and other small food items.
Key Facts
- ›Widespread distribution across coastal Indian and Pacific Ocean regions, with introductions to the Neotropics and Hawai'I.
- ›All-female species that reproduces through parthenogenesis; males are rare and often sterile.
- ›Omnivorous diet consisting of insects, spiders, fruit, nectar, and even their own eggs.
- ›Capable of changing color, with individuals appearing light or dark depending on the time of day.
- ›Primarily nocturnal but can sometimes be seen during the day when near cover.
- ›Females lay 1-2 eggs every 4-6 weeks, gluing them to protected surfaces.
Mourning Gecko, Common Smooth-Scaled Gecko
Maldives, Sri Lanka, India, Myanmar, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Japan, Taiwan, China, Indonesia, Singapore, Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Australia, Western Samoa, Guam, Society Islands, Pitcairn, Mascarene Islands, Mexico, Brazil, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Florida, the Bahamas, Guadeloupe, Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Hawai'I, Seychelles
- Measure 8.5–10 cm In Total Length, Including Tail.
- Snout-To-Vent Length Is 4–4.4 cm.
- Cryptically Colored, Typically Light To Dark Tan.
- Possess Dark Spots Down the Length of Their Back.
- Feature A Brown Strip From the Ear To the Tip of the Nose.
- Capable of Changing Color, Appearing Light Or Dark At Different Times.
Insects, Spiders, Amphipods, Pill Bugs, Fruit, Nectar, Pollen, Own Eggs, Jam, Sugar, Sweetened Drinks, Milk
- Primarily Nocturnal.
- Occasionally Encountered Exposed But Near Cover During the Day.
- All-Female Species That Reproduces Via Parthenogenesis.
- Females Lay 1-2 Eggs At A Time and Glue Them To Surfaces In Protected Locations.
- Clutches Are Laid Every 4–6 Weeks.
About Lepidodactylus lugubris
Lepidodactylus lugubris: The Mourning Gecko
Lepidodactylus lugubris, widely recognized as the mourning gecko or common smooth-scaled gecko, is a species of lizard belonging to the gecko family Gekkonidae. This species is distinguished by its widespread distribution, found across coastal regions of both the Indian and Pacific oceans, and its remarkable reproductive strategy.
Distribution and Habitat
The mourning gecko's natural range is extensive, encompassing areas from the Maldives and Sri Lanka to India, Southeast Asia, various Pacific islands, and parts of Australia. It has also been successfully introduced to numerous other regions, including Mexico, Brazil, Central America, Florida, Hawai'i, and the Galapagos Islands. These geckos typically inhabit coastal environments.
Physical Characteristics
Adult mourning geckos measure approximately 8.5 to 10 cm in total length, with a snout-to-vent length ranging from 4 to 4.4 cm. Their coloration is cryptic, usually a light to dark tan marked with dark spots along their backs. A distinctive brown stripe runs from the ear to the tip of the nose. A notable feature is their ability to change color, allowing individuals to appear lighter or darker throughout the day.
Behavior and Reproduction
Lepidodactylus lugubris is primarily nocturnal, though they may occasionally be seen during the day if they are near protective cover. A defining characteristic of this species is that it is entirely female and reproduces through parthenogenesis, a form of asexual reproduction where offspring develop from unfertilized eggs. Males are exceptionally rare and usually sterile. Females lay one to two eggs at a time, adhering them to surfaces in secure locations, with clutches being deposited every four to six weeks.
Diet
As omnivores, mourning geckos consume a varied diet. In their natural habitat, they feed on insects, spiders, small crustaceans, fruit, nectar, and pollen. They have also been observed to consume their own eggs and will readily feed on sweet substances such as jam, sugar, sweetened drinks, and milk when available.
In Captivity
Mourning geckos are occasionally kept as pets due to their manageable care requirements and social disposition. Their ability to reproduce effectively in captivity means that most individuals available as pets are captive-bred.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scientific name for the mourning gecko?
The scientific name for the mourning gecko is Lepidodactylus lugubris. It is also known as the common smooth-scaled gecko.
Where are mourning geckos found?
Lepidodactylus lugubris are found in coastal regions of the Indian and Pacific oceans, including Southeast Asia, Australia, and numerous islands. They have also been introduced to areas like Mexico, Central and South America, and Hawai'i.
What do mourning geckos eat?
These geckos are omnivorous. Their diet in the wild includes insects, spiders, fruit, nectar, and pollen. They are also known to consume jam, sugar, and milk if available.
How do mourning geckos reproduce?
Lepidodactylus lugubris is an all-female species that reproduces through parthenogenesis, meaning they can reproduce without males. Females lay 1-2 eggs at a time, which are glued to surfaces in protected areas.
What is the typical size of a mourning gecko?
Adult mourning geckos typically measure between 8.5 to 10 cm in total length, with the snout-to-vent length being around 4 to 4.4 cm.
Are mourning geckos active during the day or night?
Lepidodactylus lugubris are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. However, they can occasionally be seen exposed during the day, particularly if they are close to shelter.
Can mourning geckos change their color?
Yes, Lepidodactylus lugubris are capable of changing their color. This allows the same individual to appear either light or dark at different times of the day.
Related Lizards
Scincidae
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Hemidactylus turcicus
The Mediterranean house gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus) is a small, nocturnal lizard native to the Mediterranean region, now widespread globally due to human introduction. It is characterized by its large, lidless eyes, sticky toe pads, and distinctive purple or tan skin with dark spots. This insectivorous species thrives in human-modified environments and is often found in cracks of buildings.
Mediterranean gecko
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