Phelsuma madagascariensis, commonly known as the Madagascar day gecko, is a species of gecko in the Gekkonidae family, native to Madagascar and some neighboring islands. Here I give you a detailed description of this species:
Physical characteristics:
Size: It can measure between 20 and 25 cm in total length, making it one of the largest day geckos.
Color: This gecko is known for its striking bright green coloring on most of its body, although some individuals may have a more turquoise or even blue tone in certain areas.
Markings: Along their back and head, they usually have red or orange markings in the form of spots or lines. On the dorsal part, these markings are more visible and can have different patterns.
Eyes: The eyes are large and round, with motionless eyelids. They have a vertical pupil, which is common in gecko species.
Feet and toes: The toes on their feet are adapted for climbing, with adhesive pads that allow them to walk on smooth, vertical surfaces, such as leaves or glass.
Behavior:
Diurnal: Unlike many other geckos, this species is active during the day, allowing it to hunt insects and small invertebrates in full light.
Territoriality: Males can be very territorial, especially in the breeding season, and it is common for them to defend their space from other males.
Diet: They feed mainly on insects, spiders and other small invertebrates, although they also consume nectar and ripe fruit, making them opportunistic omnivores.
Habitat:
Distribution: It is endemic to Madagascar, where it mainly lives in tropical and subtropical forests, both in lowland and mountainous areas.
Living habits: It prefers areas with abundant vegetation, such as trees and bushes, where it can easily climb and hide from predators. It is also common to find it near human areas, such as gardens and plantations.
Reproduction:
Eggs: Females usually lay between 1 and 2 eggs in a protected place, such as among dense vegetation or under the bark of trees.
Incubation: The incubation period for eggs can last between 40 and 60 days, depending on the ambient temperature.
Conservation:
Although it is not classified as an endangered species, the destruction of its habitat in Madagascar and capture for the pet trade may pose a threat to some populations.
Approximate measurements of the Gecko:
Physical characteristics:
Size: It can measure between 20 and 25 cm in total length, making it one of the largest day geckos.
Color: This gecko is known for its striking bright green coloring on most of its body, although some individuals may have a more turquoise or even blue tone in certain areas.
Markings: Along their back and head, they usually have red or orange markings in the form of spots or lines. On the dorsal part, these markings are more visible and can have different patterns.
Eyes: The eyes are large and round, with motionless eyelids. They have a vertical pupil, which is common in gecko species.
Feet and toes: The toes on their feet are adapted for climbing, with adhesive pads that allow them to walk on smooth, vertical surfaces, such as leaves or glass.
Behavior:
Diurnal: Unlike many other geckos, this species is active during the day, allowing it to hunt insects and small invertebrates in full light.
Territoriality: Males can be very territorial, especially in the breeding season, and it is common for them to defend their space from other males.
Diet: They feed mainly on insects, spiders and other small invertebrates, although they also consume nectar and ripe fruit, making them opportunistic omnivores.
Habitat:
Distribution: It is endemic to Madagascar, where it mainly lives in tropical and subtropical forests, both in lowland and mountainous areas.
Living habits: It prefers areas with abundant vegetation, such as trees and bushes, where it can easily climb and hide from predators. It is also common to find it near human areas, such as gardens and plantations.
Reproduction:
Eggs: Females usually lay between 1 and 2 eggs in a protected place, such as among dense vegetation or under the bark of trees.
Incubation: The incubation period for eggs can last between 40 and 60 days, depending on the ambient temperature.
Conservation:
Although it is not classified as an endangered species, the destruction of its habitat in Madagascar and capture for the pet trade may pose a threat to some populations.
Approximate measurements of the Gecko:
- Scale 1:1 Complete
- Length 108 mm
- Height 32 mm
- Width 98 mm
- Snout-tail length 220 mm
