Sphaerodactylus gaigeae facts for kids
The chevronated sphaero or Gaige's least gecko is a tiny lizard. Its scientific name is Sphaerodactylus gaigeae. This special gecko belongs to the Sphaerodactylidae family. You can only find this type of gecko in Puerto Rico. This means it is endemic to that island.
Quick facts for kids Sphaerodactylus gaigeae |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Sphaerodactylus
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| Species: |
gaigeae
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Contents
What's in a Name?
The second part of the gecko's scientific name, gaigeae, honors a famous American scientist. Her name was Helen Beulah Thompson Gaige. She studied reptiles and amphibians, which is called herpetology.
Where Does the Chevronated Sphaero Live?
This small gecko likes to live in forests. It can be found from sea level up to about 450 meters (1,476 feet) high. That's like living from the beach all the way up a small mountain!
What Does This Gecko Look Like?
Adult chevronated sphaeros are very small. From their snout (nose) to their vent (where their tail starts), they are only about 22 to 25 millimeters long. That's less than an inch! Imagine a gecko smaller than your thumb.
How Does This Gecko Reproduce?
Like many reptiles, the chevronated sphaero is oviparous. This means that the female gecko lays eggs. The baby geckos hatch from these eggs.
