Seychelles small day gecko facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Seychelles small day gecko |
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Phelsuma
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| Species: |
astriata
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The Phelsuma astriata, also known as the Seychelles day gecko or stripeless day gecko, is a type of lizard. It belongs to the Gekkonidae family. This gecko is special because it is endemic to the Seychelles islands. This means it is found naturally only in the Seychelles.
These geckos live in many different places. Their homes include dry and moist tropical forests. They also live in mangrove forests and shrublands. You can find them in plantations, gardens, and even urban areas. Sadly, their homes are shrinking due to habitat loss. These geckos mostly eat vegetables.
Amazing Color Change
One cool thing about these geckos is how they change color. Their color depends on how much light is around them. In bright light, the gecko looks a vibrant green.
If the gecko is in a dark place, even for a short time, its color changes. It turns into a very dark green. This dark green can look almost black.
When light shines on the gecko again, its color slowly changes back. Each tiny scale-like bump on its skin seems to change color one by one. In less than three minutes, the whole gecko turns bright green again. Its tail changes a little slower than the rest of its body.
While it is changing, the gecko might look patchy. You might see both bright and dark green colors at the same time. These changes are a great way for the gecko to blend into its surroundings.
Types of Seychelles Day Geckos
There are three different types, or subspecies, of Phelsuma astriata. A subspecies is a group of animals within a species that has small differences.
- Phelsuma astriata astriata: This type is found on several islands. These include Mahé, Praslin, Silhouette, Thérèse, Astove, and Frégate.
- Phelsuma astriata semicarinata: You can find this subspecies on the northeastern islands of the Inner Seychelles. It lives on Denis Island, Daros Island, and St. Joseph. It was also brought to La Réunion.
- Phelsuma astriata astovei: This subspecies is found only on Astove Island.
See also
In Spanish: Phelsuma astriata para niños
