Phelsuma lineata dorsivittata
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| Phelsuma lineata dorsivittata Mertens, 1964 |
Phelsuma lineata dorsivittata Mertens, 1964 is a diurnal subspecies of geckos. It inhabits northern Madagascar and typically occurs on different trees and huts. This day gecko feeds on insects and nectar.
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[edit] Description
This lizard belongs to the smallest day geckos. It can reach a total length of about 13 cm. The body colour is dark green with irregular red spots. On the upper back, there is a red mid dorsal stripe. A thin red stripe extends from the nostril to the eye. A brownish lateral stripe extends between the front and rear legs. On the snout a faint v-marking is present. A black oval marking is present on the side below the armpit area. Another black oval marking is present on the uppermost portion of the rear extremity.
[edit] Distribution
This gecko inhabits northern Madagascar, including the area around Joffreville, about 25 km south of Antsiranana.
[edit] Habitat
This Phelsuma lineata dorsivittata inhabits a moist climate. It is found on broadleaf treesand on human dwellings.
[edit] Diet
These day geckos feed on various insects and other invertebrates. They also like to lick soft, sweet fruit, pollen and nectar.
[edit] Behaviour
Like most Phelsuma spec., the males can be quite quarrelsome and do not accept other males in their neighbourhood.
[edit] Reproduction
The females lay up to 6 pairs of eggs. At a temperature of 28°C, the young will hatch after approximately 40–45 days. The juveniles measure 40 mm.
[edit] Care and maintenance in captivity
These animals can be housed in spairs. They need a well planted terrarium. The temperature should be about 25–28°C (locally around 30°C) during the day and drop to around 20°C at night. The humidity should be maintained around 75–85%. In captivity, these animals can be fed with crickets, wax moth, fruits flies, mealworms and houseflies.
[edit] References
- Henkel, F.-W. and W. Schmidt (1995) Amphibien und Reptilien Madagaskars, der Maskarenen, Seychellen und Komoren. Ulmer Stuttgart. ISBN 3-8001-7323-9
- McKeown, Sean (1993) The general care and maintenance of day geckos. Advanced Vivarium Systems, Lakeside CA.
