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Persian dwarf gecko

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The Persian dwarf gecko, scientifically known as *Microgecko persicus*, is a small lizard species belonging to the Gekkonidae family. It is native to Iran, Iraq, and Pakistan. This species is distinguished by its geographical distribution and taxonomic history, having been placed in various genera throughout its classification.

Key Facts

  • Endemic to Iran, Iraq, and Pakistan.
  • First described by Alexander Nikolsky in 1903 as *Alsophylax persicus*.
  • Has been classified under several genera, including *Cyrtodactylus*, *Bunopus*, and *Tropiocolotes*.
  • The common name reflects its distribution in Persia, which is modern-day Iran.
  • There are three recognized subspecies of *Microgecko persicus*.
Persian dwarf gecko
Scientific Name
Microgecko persicus
Family
Gekkonidae
Common Names

Persia Sand Gecko, Persian Dwarf Gecko

Geographic Distribution

Iran, Iraq, Pakistan

About Persian dwarf gecko

The Persian dwarf gecko, scientifically cataloged as Microgecko persicus, is a species of lizard that belongs to the Gekkonidae family. This small reptile is native to a region spanning Iran, Iraq, and Pakistan. Its common names, such as the Persia sand gecko or Persian dwarf gecko, directly reference its geographical origins and modest size.

Taxonomy and Classification

The species was first formally identified and described in 1903 by Alexander Nikolsky, who initially classified it as Alsophylax persicus. Over time, due to evolving taxonomic understanding, the Persian dwarf gecko has been placed within several different genera. These include Cyrtodactylus, Bunopus, and Tropiocolotes, reflecting ongoing research into its evolutionary relationships.

Subspecies

Three subspecies of Microgecko persicus are currently recognized:

  • Microgecko persicus bakhtiari
  • Microgecko persicus euphorbiacola
  • Microgecko persicus persicus

These subspecies likely represent variations within the broader species, possibly adapted to slightly different local conditions or exhibiting distinct genetic lineages within the species' range.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scientific name of the Persian dwarf gecko?

The scientific name of the Persian dwarf gecko is *Microgecko persicus*. It was initially described by Alexander Nikolsky in 1903.

Where is the Persian dwarf gecko found?

The Persian dwarf gecko is endemic to the countries of Iran, Iraq, and Pakistan. Its common name also refers to its historical distribution in Persia, which is now Iran.

How has the classification of the Persian dwarf gecko changed over time?

The Persian dwarf gecko has a complex taxonomic history. It has been placed in several different genera since its initial description, including *Alsophylax*, *Cyrtodactylus*, *Bunopus*, and *Tropiocolotes*.

Are there different types of Persian dwarf geckos?

Yes, there are three accepted subspecies of *Microgecko persicus*. These subspecies are *Microgecko persicus bakhtiari*, *Microgecko persicus euphorbiacola*, and *Microgecko persicus persicus*.