
Common dwarf gecko
A species of Sphaeros, Also known as Common gecko Scientific name : Sphaerodactylus macrolepis Genus : Sphaeros
Common dwarf gecko, A species of Sphaeros
Also known as:
Common gecko
Scientific name: Sphaerodactylus macrolepis
Genus: Sphaeros
Content
Description General Info


Description

Sphaerodactylus macrolepis, also known as the big-scaled least gecko, big-scaled dwarf gecko, or cotton ginner, is a gecko distributed in the United States Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands and Culebra, Puerto Rico in the Caribbean. It is one of over 100 species in the genus Sphaerodactylus.

General Info

Lifespan
5-10 years
Diet
Common dwarf gecko predominantly feeds on a variety of small arthropods, particularly insects and spiders. It employs active foraging strategies during nocturnal hours, seeking food both on the ground and in low vegetation.
Appearance
Common dwarf gecko is a small reptile, typically less than 6 cm in length, with a flattened, gecko-like body shape. Its skin is slightly grainy and varies in color, typically displaying a combination of brown and tan hues. The most distinguishing feature is its large scales which cover its back, hence its name. Males tend to have more vibrant coloration than females. There is minimal variation in appearance across different age groups or subspecies.
Behavior
Common dwarf gecko are typically solitary, nocturnal creatures that are often found hiding under leaves and debris during the day. They exhibit unique foraging behavior, commonly hunting small arthropods at night. Their mating behavior is equally peculiar as males perform a courtship displaying belly-slapping, tail vibrator movements on the female.
Population
Stable

Scientific Classification

Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Sphaeros and allies Genus
Sphaeros Species
Common dwarf gecko