Context
Scientists recently discovered a new species of gliding geckos in Mizoram, named Mizoram parachute gecko.
Relevance:
GS III: Species in News
Dimensions of the Article:
- About Mizoram Parachute Gecko
- About Geckos
About Mizoram Parachute Gecko:
- The Mizoram parachute gecko, scientifically known as Gekko mizoramensis, is a recently discovered species of gliding geckos.
- It is one of the 14 gecko species known to have the ability to glide through the air.
- The evolution of this species is believed to have occurred due to geographical separation from its closest relative, G. popaensis, by the Arakan Mountains.
Features of the Mizoram Parachute Gecko:
- Unlike other gliding reptiles that use their bones to form flying surfaces, these geckos have flaps of skin.
- When they leap off a tall structure, air resistance pushes the flaps out, resembling a parachute, which slows their descent.
- The skin flaps also provide camouflage, helping to break up their shape and protect them from predators.
- The specialized camouflage and body shape of these geckos are shared by multiple species, making it challenging to differentiate them from one another.
About Geckos:
- Geckos are reptiles found on all continents except Antarctica.
- They are considered one of the earliest evolving squamates, which is the group comprising lizards, snakes, and their close relatives.
- There are over 1,200 species of geckos, accounting for around a fifth of all known lizard species.
- Geckos have adapted to various habitats, including rainforests, deserts, and cold mountain slopes.
Features of Geckos:
- Geckos possess adhesive pads on their feet, thanks to a network of microscopic hairs, allowing them to climb almost any surface.
- Most geckos have a transparent protective covering over their eyes, similar to snakes.
- Geckos can have tails that are long and tapering, short and blunt, or even globular.
- The tail serves as a fat storehouse in many species, enabling them to survive during unfavorable conditions.
- Unlike other reptiles, most geckos have a voice and produce calls that vary among species, ranging from feeble clicks or chirps to shrill cackles or barks.
-Source: Economic Times
