Tarentola mauritanica (common gecko)

Tarentola mauritanica, commonly known as the common gecko or Mauritanian gecko, is a small reptile belonging to the Phyllodactylidae family, widely distributed in the Mediterranean. It is native to southern Europe, northern Africa and some Mediterranean islands, although its range has expanded significantly due to human activity, even reaching regions outside its original habitat, such as North America and parts of South America. This reptile is one of the clearest examples of adaptation and survival in the Anthropocene, the current period characterized by the significant impact of human activity on the planet.

The Tarentola mauritanica is easily recognizable by its robust body, flattened head and large eyes, which provide excellent night vision. Its coloration can vary, but is generally grayish or brownish, with dark spots that allow it to camouflage itself in its environment. It can reach a length of 15 cm, including the tail. Like other geckos, it has adhesive pads on its toes, which allow it to climb smooth vertical surfaces with great dexterity, even on walls and windows of human buildings, which has helped it thrive in urban environments.

One of the keys to the survival and success of Tarentola mauritanica in the Anthropocene is its ability to adapt to environments modified by humans. This small reptile is very common in urban and rural areas, where it finds shelter in buildings, cracks and walls. In addition, its generalist diet, based mainly on insects and arachnids, allows it to take advantage of the abundance of prey that exists in these habitats. It hunts actively at night, using its excellent visual ability and fast reflexes to catch insects, often near artificial light sources, where insects congregate.

Human impact has, in many cases, favored the expansion of Tarentola mauritanica. The creation of urban structures and international trade have allowed this species to disperse to new areas. For example, it has been accidentally introduced to places such as the United States, where it has established populations outside its natural range. This ability to disperse and adapt to new environments reflects its resilience to the ecological changes of the Anthropocene, a period that has seen many other, less adaptable species decline.

However, the expansion of Tarentola mauritanica also has its challenges. Although it has thrived in many urban environments, human pressure on ecosystems and increasing urbanization also represent a potential threat. Light pollution, insect decline due to pesticide use, and the destruction of natural habitats are factors that may affect the populations of this gecko in the long term. Despite these challenges, its adaptability has allowed it to maintain stable populations in most of its range.

Another interesting aspect of Tarentola mauritanica in the Anthropocene is its interaction with other introduced species. In some areas, it has had to compete with other introduced reptiles, such as Hemidactylus turcicus, an equally adaptable gecko species. Although both species often coexist in the same habitats, competition for resources could affect the local distribution of Tarentola mauritanica in certain areas.

On an ecological level, Tarentola mauritanica plays an important role in controlling populations of insects and other invertebrates, both in natural environments and in urban areas. Its ability to feed on a wide variety of prey makes it an efficient predator in multiple ecosystems. In urban environments, it can help control insect pests, making it a beneficial species from a human point of view.

Approximate measurements of the Gecko:

• 1:1 Scale Complete
• Length 144 mm
• Height 21 mm
• Width 60 mm
• Snout-tail length 145 mm