Scientific name:
- Phelsuma v-nigra anjouanensis MEIER 1986
Common name:
- Anjouan Island day gecko
General introduction:
- This small diurnal gecko of about 11 cm lives in the Comoros. It typically inhabits trees and bushes. The Anjouan Island day gecko feeds on insects and nectar.
Description:
- This lizard belongs to the smallest day geckos. It can reach a maximum length of approximately 11 cm. The body colour is bright green. There is a red v-shaped stripe on the snout and a red barring between the eyes. On the back there are a number of tiny red-brick coloured spots and reticulations. On the throat, there is a faint v-shaped marking. The ventral side is greyish.
Distribution:
- This subspecies only inhabits the island Anjouan in the Comoros.
Habitat:
- Phelsuma v-nigra anjouanensis is found on agave bushes, banana trees, palms, human dwellings and even on the ground.
Diet:
- These day geckos feed on various insects and other invertebrates. They also like to lick soft, sweet fruit, pollen and nectar.
Care and maintenance in captivity:
- These animals should be housed in pairs and need a medium sized, well planted terrarium. The daytime temperature should be between 28 and 30°C and 24 and 26°C at night. The humidity should be not too high. A two month winter cooldown should be included during which temperature is 25°C at daytime and 20°C at night. In captivity, these animals can be fed with crickets, wax moth larvae, fruit 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.
