Scientific name:
- Phelsuma lineata dorsivittata MERTENS 1964
General introduction:
- This diurnal gecko inhabits northern Madagascar. It typically occurs on different trees and huts. This day gecko feeds on insects and nectar.
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.
Distribution:
- This gecko inhabits northern Madagascar, including the area around Joffreville, about 25 km south of Antsiranana.
Habitat:
- This Phelsuma lineata dorsivittata inhabits a moist climate. It is found on broadleaf treesand on human dwellings.
Diet:
- These day geckos feed on various insects and other invertebrates. They also like to lick soft, sweet fruit, pollen and nectar.
Behaviour:
- Like most Phelsuma spec., the males can be quite quarrelsome and do not accept other males in their neighbourhood.
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.
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.
References:
- Henkel, F.-W. and W. Schmidt (1995) Amphibien und Reptilien Madagaskars, der Maskarenen, Seychellen und Komoren. Ulmer Stuttgart. ISBN 3800173239
- McKeown, Sean (1993) The general care and maintenance of day geckos. Advanced Vivarium Systems, Lakeside CA.