Tarentola ephippiata
Tarentola ephippiata·Gekkonidae
The African wall gecko, scientifically known as Tarentola ephippiata, is a species of gecko native to northern Africa. This nocturnal reptile is characterized by its distinct dorsal patterns, differentiating it from closely related species. It has also been observed in parts of North America, marking a notable extension of its range.
Key Facts
- ›Native to northern Africa, with recent sightings in North America.
- ›It is a nocturnal species, active primarily at night.
- ›Distinguished from Tarentola annularis by differences in tooth count and dorsal patterns.
- ›First identified as a distinct species through morphological analysis in 1961.
- ›Recently documented in North America for the first time in 2019.
African Wall Gecko, Fig Tree Gecko
Northern Africa, North America
Afrotropic Regions
Characterized By Distinct Dorsal Patterns.
Nocturnal Activity
About Tarentola ephippiata
Tarentola ephippiata: The African Wall Gecko
The African wall gecko, scientifically known as Tarentola ephippiata, is a species of gecko recognized for its presence in northern Africa and, more recently, in parts of North America. This reptile is primarily characterized by its nocturnal habits, being most active during the nighttime hours.
Discovery and Distinction
Historically, Tarentola ephippiata was considered by some to be a geographical variant of the white-spotted wall gecko (Tarentola annularis). However, detailed morphological analysis conducted in 1961 established them as two distinct species. Key differences were identified in their dental structure, specifically the number of teeth, and in their dorsal patterns, which serve as distinguishing physical markers.
Geographic Range Expansion
While native to the Afrotropic regions of northern Africa, the documented presence of Tarentola ephippiata in North America represents a notable expansion of its known range. The first confirmed sightings of the species in North America were reported in 2019, prompting further observation and study of its presence in this new environment.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scientific name for the African wall gecko?
The scientific name for the African wall gecko is Tarentola ephippiata. This binomial nomenclature is used to identify the species within the scientific community.
Where is the African wall gecko found?
The African wall gecko is primarily found in northern Africa within the Afrotropic regions. However, it has also been observed in parts of North America, a more recent discovery.
Is the African wall gecko active during the day or night?
Tarentola ephippiata is a nocturnal species. This means it is most active and hunts for food during the nighttime hours.
How is Tarentola ephippiata different from the white-spotted wall gecko?
Tarentola ephippiata was once thought to be a geographic variant of Tarentola annularis (white-spotted wall gecko). However, a 1961 analysis revealed distinct differences in their tooth numbers and dorsal patterns, confirming they are separate species.
When was the African wall gecko first seen in North America?
The African wall gecko was spotted in North America for the first time in 2019. This marked a significant observation regarding its geographic distribution.
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