Marlborough green gecko facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Marlborough green gecko |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Naultinus
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| Species: |
manukanus
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| Synonyms | |
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Heteropholis manukanus |
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The Marlborough green gecko, also known as the manuka gecko, (Naultinus manukanus) is a small gecko found only in New Zealand. When we say it is endemic to New Zealand, it means this gecko naturally lives nowhere else in the world.
This gecko can grow up to 70 millimeters long. It is usually green, but some individuals have cool gold markings. The underside of the gecko is a lighter green for females. Males have a silvery underside. The very first Marlborough green gecko studied by scientists is kept at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa.
Protecting the Marlborough Green Gecko
In 2012, the Department of Conservation in New Zealand looked at the Marlborough green gecko. They decided it was At Risk of disappearing. This means its numbers are going down, or are expected to go down.
The gecko was also called Conservation Dependent. This means it needs special help and protection to survive. Scientists and conservation groups are working to keep this unique New Zealand gecko safe.
