Smaug round-eyed gecko
The Smaug round-eyed gecko (Cnemaspis smaug) is a diurnal, rock-dwelling, insectivorous lizard endemic to the Cardamom Hills in the southern Western Ghats of India. It is a relatively large and robust species within its genus, distinguished by its size and habitat preference.
Key Facts
- ›Diurnal and rock-dwelling species.
- ›Found in the Cardamom Hills of the southern Western Ghats, Kerala, India.
- ›Insectivorous diet.
- ›Can reach up to 52 mm (2.0 in) in snout-vent length.
- ›Belongs to the genus Cnemaspis, known for its geckos.
Smaug Round-Eyed Gecko
India
Relatively Large and Robust Cnemaspis., Can Grow Up To 52 mm In Snout-Vent Length.
Insects
Diurnal, Rock-Dwelling
About Smaug round-eyed gecko
The Smaug round-eyed gecko, known scientifically as Cnemaspis smaug, is a species of diurnal gecko that inhabits rocky environments. It is found exclusively in the Cardamom Hills, a region within the southern Western Ghats of Kerala, India.
Key Characteristics
This species is characterized by its robust build and relatively large size for its genus. Adult Smaug round-eyed geckos can reach a snout-vent length of up to 52 mm (approximately 2.0 inches). As a diurnal creature, it is active during the day, a trait that distinguishes it from many of its nocturnal gecko relatives. Its diet consists primarily of insects, classifying it as an insectivore.
Habitat and Distribution
The natural range of Cnemaspis smaug is restricted to the Cardamom Hills in the southern Western Ghats of India. It is specifically adapted to a rock-dwelling lifestyle within this particular geographic area. The Western Ghats are renowned for their biodiversity, and this gecko is a part of that rich ecosystem.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Smaug round-eyed gecko and where does it live?
The Smaug round-eyed gecko, scientifically known as Cnemaspis smaug, is a species of gecko. It is found exclusively in the Cardamom Hills located in the southern Western Ghats region of Kerala, India.
What does the Smaug round-eyed gecko eat?
This species of gecko is insectivorous, meaning its diet primarily consists of insects. It actively hunts and consumes various small invertebrates found in its habitat.
What are the physical characteristics of the Smaug round-eyed gecko?
The Smaug round-eyed gecko is described as a relatively large and robust member of the Cnemaspis genus. It can grow to a snout-vent length of up to 52 mm (2.0 inches).
Is the Smaug round-eyed gecko active during the day or night?
The Smaug round-eyed gecko is diurnal, which means it is active during daylight hours. This contrasts with many other gecko species that are nocturnal.
Related Lizards
Cordylus
Cordylus, commonly known as girdled lizards, are a diverse genus of small to medium-sized spiny lizards native to Africa. These diurnal reptiles are characterized by their bony armor (osteoderms) and their ability to defend themselves by retreating into crevices. Most species are rock-dwellers, though some are arboreal or burrowing, and many exhibit social behaviors with males defending territories.
Red-eyed dwarf gecko
The Red-eyed dwarf gecko (Cnemaspis rubraoculus) is a diurnal, rock-dwelling gecko species found exclusively in India. As an insectivore, it primarily feeds on insects. Its distinctive feature is its red eyes, which give it its common name.
Algerian sand racer
The Algerian sand racer, scientifically known as Psammodromus algirus, is a lizard species found in southwestern Europe and northwestern Africa. It typically inhabits dense bushy vegetation and can be found at high elevations, though it is more common at lower altitudes. This species is characterized by its metallic brownish dorsal coloration with conspicuous white or yellowish stripes.