Uroplatus henkeli
Henkel's leaf-tailed gecko, Uroplatus henkeli, is a large gecko species endemic to Madagascar, known for its arboreal lifestyle and remarkable camouflage. It is distinguished by its flat tail and can be found in primary forests on the island and surrounding smaller islands.
Key Facts
- ›Endemic to Madagascar and the island of Nosy Bé.
- ›One of the largest species within the Uroplatus genus, reaching up to 280 mm in total length.
- ›Primarily insectivorous, but will also consume snails.
- ›Lives an arboreal lifestyle, only descending to lay eggs.
- ›Classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN due to habitat destruction and the pet trade.
Henkel's Flat-Tailed Gecko, Frilled Leaf-Tail Gecko
Madagascar, Nosy Bé
- Reaches A Total Length of Up To 280 mm .
- Possesses A Flat Tail.
- Exhibits Different Color Morphs, With Nosy Bé and Mainland Madagascar Forms Distinguishable By Their Coloration Patterns, Though These Are Not Always Reliable.
Insects, Snails
Arboreal Lifestyle, Descends To the Ground Only To Lay Eggs
Habitat Destruction, Deforestation, Collection For the Pet Trade, Illegal Wildlife Trade
About Uroplatus henkeli
Henkel's Leaf-Tailed Gecko (Uroplatus henkeli)
Henkel's leaf-tailed gecko, scientifically known as Uroplatus henkeli, is a striking species of gecko native to the island of Madagascar and the nearby island of Nosy Bé. This lizard is renowned for its exceptional camouflage, which allows it to blend seamlessly with its arboreal environment. It is one of the larger members of the Uroplatus genus, capable of reaching a considerable size.
Habitat and Lifestyle
Uroplatus henkeli inhabits primary forest ecosystems. Its life is predominantly spent in trees, where its flattened body and tail, along with specialized coloration, help it to remain undetected by predators and prey alike. The gecko ventures to the ground only when it is time to lay its eggs, typically choosing soft soil or leaf litter for this purpose.
Physical Characteristics
The total length of Henkel's leaf-tailed gecko can extend up to 280 millimeters (approximately 11 inches). Two distinct color morphs are recognized: one found on Nosy Bé and another on mainland Madagascar. While these forms display differing coloration patterns, these distinctions are not always a definitive identifying factor.
Diet
As an insectivore, Uroplatus henkeli primarily feeds on insects. However, its diet is known to be flexible, and the gecko will also consume snails when the opportunity arises.
Conservation and Threats
Henkel's leaf-tailed gecko is currently classified as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The most significant threats to its survival are habitat destruction and deforestation across Madagascar. Furthermore, the species is highly sought after for the international pet trade, leading to collection rates that are considered alarming. Consequently, Uroplatus henkeli is listed on CITES Appendix II, regulating its international trade.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scientific name for Henkel's leaf-tailed gecko?
The scientific name for Henkel's leaf-tailed gecko is Uroplatus henkeli. The genus name Uroplatus comes from Greek words meaning 'tail' and 'flat', referring to its distinctive tail.
Where can Henkel's leaf-tailed gecko be found?
This species is found in primary forests on the island of Nosy Bé near Madagascar, as well as on the mainland of Madagascar itself, specifically in the region of Ankaranafantsika.
What does Henkel's leaf-tailed gecko eat?
Henkel's flat-tailed gecko is primarily insectivorous, feeding on insects. However, it has also been observed to eat snails when available.
What are the main threats to Uroplatus henkeli?
The primary threats to Henkel's leaf-tailed gecko are habitat destruction and deforestation in Madagascar. Collection for the international pet trade also poses a significant risk to its population.
Is Henkel's leaf-tailed gecko a large species?
Yes, Uroplatus henkeli is considered one of the largest species in its genus. Adults can reach a total length of up to 280 mm, including their tail.
How does Uroplatus henkeli behave?
Henkel's leaf-tailed gecko exhibits an arboreal lifestyle, meaning it lives in trees. It only ventures down to the ground for the specific purpose of laying its eggs in soft soil and leaf litter.
Related Lizards
Holaspis
Holaspis is a genus of equatorial African lizards belonging to the Lacertidae family, notable for their ability to glide between trees for distances up to 30 meters. These arboreal lizards are characterized by their flattened bodies and tails, unique scale formations, and striking coloration, with males often being more vibrantly hued.
Calumma nasutum
The Calumma nasutum, commonly known as the Madagascar pimple-nose chameleon or big-nosed chameleon, is a small arboreal lizard native to Madagascar. It is distinguished by a prominent, paddle-like appendage on its nose, which is thought to aid in mate identification, particularly in males who also possess a more noticeable casque. This species inhabits dense rainforests and is primarily nocturnal, feeding on small invertebrates.
Uroplatus sameiti
Uroplatus sameiti is a species of leaf-tailed gecko endemic to Madagascar, found in primary and secondary forests. It is distinguished by its remarkable camouflage abilities, including dermal flaps that break up its outline and a limited capacity to change skin color to match its surroundings. Primarily nocturnal and arboreal, this gecko feeds on insects and other invertebrates.