Scientific name:
- Phelsuma lineata bifasciata BOETTGER 1913
Scientific synonym:
- Phelsuma lineata var. bifasciata BOETTGER 1913
General introduction:
- This diurnal gecko inhabits the east coast of Madagascar. It typically occurs on different trees and bushes. This day gecko feeds on insects and nectar.
Description:
- This lizard belongs to the mid sized day geckos. It can reach a total length of about 14.5 cm. The body colour is dark green. On the lower back there is a large irregular red spot which diffuses towards the back. A thin red stripe extends from the nostril to the eye. A black lateral stripe extends between the front and rear legs. Between this stripe and the white ventral side, there is a thin yellowish lateral stripe.
Distribution:
- This gecko probably inhabits the complete east coast of Madagascar. It is found in the region around Ankarimbela in southern Madagascar and in the region around Andasibe.
Habitat:
- Phelsuma lineata bifasciata lives near human dwellings. It is found on banana trees, palms, flowering bushes and 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 75-90%. 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.
