Tarentola gomerensis
Tarentola gomerensis·Phyllodactylidae
The Gomero wall gecko, scientifically known as Tarentola gomerensis, is a species of lizard endemic to the island of La Gomera in the Canary Islands. This gecko inhabits a variety of environments, including rocky areas, shrubland, and human-modified landscapes like gardens and urban zones. It is distinguished by its adaptation to diverse habitats within its limited geographic range.
Key Facts
- ›Endemic to the island of La Gomera in the Canary Islands.
- ›Inhabits temperate shrubland, Mediterranean-type shrubby vegetation, and rocky areas.
- ›Also found in pastureland, plantations, rural gardens, and urban areas.
- ›Known by common names such as Gomero wall gecko, La Gomera gecko, and perenquén.
- ›Belongs to the Phyllodactylidae family of geckos.
Gomero Wall Gecko, La Gomera Gecko, PerenquéN
La Gomera
About Tarentola gomerensis
Tarentola gomerensis: The Gomero Wall Gecko
The Gomero wall gecko, scientifically classified as Tarentola gomerensis, is a distinct lizard species endemic to the island of La Gomera in the Canary Islands archipelago. Locally known as perenquén, this gecko has adapted to a wide array of natural and human-modified environments within its limited geographic range.
Habitat and Distribution
Tarentola gomerensis is found exclusively on La Gomera. Its natural habitats are varied, including temperate shrubland, Mediterranean-type shrubby vegetation, and rocky terrains such as rocky shores. The species demonstrates notable adaptability, also colonizing areas influenced by human activity, including pastureland, agricultural plantations, rural gardens, and even urban landscapes. This broad habitat preference allows it to persist in diverse ecological niches across the island.
Taxonomy and Common Names
This species belongs to the family Phyllodactylidae, commonly known as leaf-toed geckos. In addition to its scientific name, Tarentola gomerensis, it is recognized by several common names, including the Gomero wall gecko, the La Gomera gecko, and perenquén in the Canary Islands. These names highlight its endemic status and local recognition.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scientific name of the Gomero wall gecko?
The scientific name of the Gomero wall gecko is Tarentola gomerensis. It is a binomial classification used to identify this specific species of lizard.
Where is Tarentola gomerensis found?
Tarentola gomerensis is endemic to the island of La Gomera, one of the Canary Islands. It is not naturally found anywhere else in the world.
What kind of habitats does the Gomero wall gecko prefer?
This gecko thrives in a diverse range of habitats, including temperate shrubland, Mediterranean-type shrubby vegetation, and rocky areas. It is also adaptable to human-influenced environments such as pastureland, plantations, rural gardens, and urban areas.
Are there other common names for Tarentola gomerensis?
Yes, besides the Gomero wall gecko and La Gomera gecko, it is also commonly known as perenquén in the Canary Islands. These names reflect its local presence and recognition.
What family does the Gomero wall gecko belong to?
Tarentola gomerensis belongs to the family Phyllodactylidae. This family includes various species of leaf-toed geckos.
Related Lizards
East Canary gecko
The East Canary gecko, also known as the Canary wall gecko (Tarentola angustimentalis), is a species of lizard native to the eastern Canary Islands. This plump, dorsally flattened gecko is characterized by adhesive toe pads, small tubercles on its skin, and variable greyish-brown coloration with darker bars. It inhabits a wide range of environments, from rocky shores and shrubland to urban areas, and is commonly observed at night on walls and ceilings.
Gomero wall gecko
The Gomero wall gecko, also known as the La Gomera gecko or perenquén, is a species of lizard endemic to the island of La Gomera in the Canary Islands. It inhabits a variety of environments, including shrubland, rocky areas, pastureland, and urban gardens. This gecko is characterized by its adaptation to diverse habitats, ranging from natural landscapes to human-altered environments.
Podarcis pityusensis
The Ibiza wall lizard (Podarcis pityusensis) is a species native to the Balearic Islands, primarily Ibiza and Formentera. This lizard is characterized by its green, grey, or brownish dorsal surface, a pale dorso-lateral stripe, and a robust body with coarse scales. It inhabits a variety of environments, including rocky shores, gardens, and urban areas, and its population is currently listed as endangered due to invasive snake species.