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Harlequin gecko Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.Harlequin gecko facts for kids
- For the distinctive type of paneling from New Zealand, see Tukutuku
Quick facts for kids Harlequin gecko |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Tukutuku
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| Species: |
rakiurae
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| Distribution map of Tukutuku rakiurae on Stewart Island. | |
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The harlequin gecko (Tukutuku rakiurae, formerly Hoplodactylus rakiurae) is a species of gecko, a lizard in the family Diplodactylidae. The species is endemic to Stewart Island/Rakiura in the far south of New Zealand, where it was discovered in 1969. In terms of distribution it is one of the southernmost gecko species in the world.
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Etymology
The generic name, Tukutuku, refers to the Māori ornamental lattice work called Tukutuku, which the dorsal pattern of this species resembles. The specific name, rakiurae, refers to Rakiura, the Maori name for Stewart Island.
Habitat
The preferred habitats of T. rakiurae are shrubland and wetlands.
Reproduction
T. rakiurae is viviparous.
Conservation status
As of 2012 the Department of Conservation (DOC) classified the harlequin gecko as Nationally Vulnerable under the New Zealand Threat Classification System.