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About Mizoram Parachute Gecko

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:

  1. About Mizoram Parachute Gecko
  2. 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


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