Paroedura maingoka
Paroedura maingoka | |
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In Tsimanampetsotsa National Park, Madagascar | |
Scientific classification | |
Domain: | Eukaryota |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Chordata |
Class: | Reptilia |
Order: | Squamata |
Family: | Gekkonidae |
Genus: | Paroedura |
Species: | P. maingoka
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Binomial name | |
Paroedura maingoka | |
Approximate distribution of Paroedura maingoka |
Paroedura maingoka, the scorpion leaf-toed gecko, is a
This lizard is known for its defensive behavior in which it curls its tail over its back. It is named after this posture, which resembles that of a scorpion ('Batesian mimicry'). The specific name maingoka is Malagasy for "scorpion".
Taxonomy
The species Paroedura maingoka was described in 2000, with the holotype (UMMZ 211210) being an adult male found on 10 December 1995 in Tsimanampetsotsa National Park. Several other specimens from the same locality were included as paratypes. The specific name is a Malagasy word meaning "scorpion", referencing the lizard's defensive posture in which the tail is curved over the back.[2]
Distribution and habitat
This gecko is one of many species
Description
This is a moderately-sized species, with mature individuals having a
The upper side is primarily tannish brown, with a distinct white stripe running down the spine interrupted by dark crosslines. White crossbands with dark borders are present on the torso, while the tail has alternating black and white bands. An additional white crossband is located on the back of the head, and a short white stripe extends from each eye to the lip. The upper surfaces of the limbs are dark brown with white tubercles. The underside is mostly light.[2]
Patterning is variable within the species, with the crossbands being more distinct in some individuals while in others they are almost totally obscured, and tails which have been regenerated may have a
Biology
Paroedura maingoka is a
This gecko is best known for its defensive behavior, for which it is named. When threatened, the lizard will curl its tail forwards over its back, taking a posture resembling that of a
Conservation
This species was listed as
References
- ^ . Retrieved 18 November 2021.
- ^ S2CID 83107193.
- ^ Raselimanana, A.P., Raherilalao, M.J., Soarimalala, V. and Ralison, J. 2005. Faune de vertebres des zones forestieres des regions du sudouest et du sud de Madagascar : Diversité, distribution, menaces et conservation.
- ^ ISSN 0021-8901.
- ^ Autumn, Kellar; Han, Batur (April 1989). "Mimicry of scorpions by juvenile lizards, Teratoscincus roborowskii (Gekkonidae)". Chinese Herpetological Research. 2 (2): 60–64.