Phelsuma breviceps

Taxobox
name = "Phelsuma breviceps"


image_width = 220px
regnum = Animalia
phylum = Chordata
classis = Reptilia
ordo = Squamata
familia = Gekkonidae
subfamilia = Gekkoninae
genus = "Phelsuma"
species = "P. breviceps"
binomial = "Phelsuma breviceps"
binomial_authority = Boettger, 1894

"Phelsuma breviceps" is a diurnal species of geckos. It lives in south-east Madagascar and typically dwells on trees and bushes. The Madagascar day gecko feeds on insects.

Description:

This lizard belongs to the smallest day geckos. It can reach a maximum total length of about 10 cm. Typical for this species is the short snout. The basic body colour is light grey to brownish. On the back there are light blue and dark dots and stripes. The legs have light blue spots.

Distribution:

This species inhabits the sout-east Madagascar. It is found in the area around Toliara and near the Tsimanampetsotsa-lake.

Habitat:

"P. breviceps" is adapted to a dry climate. It is often found on the succulent spurge "Euphorbia stenoclada" which has 7 cm large thorns.

Diet:

These day geckos feed on various insects and other invertebrates, and nectar.

Behaviour:

Unlike most "Phelsuma" spec., this species is rather quiet.

Reproduction:

The females lay their eggs between the wood spurge thorns.

Care and maintenance in captivity:

These animals should be housed in pairs and need a dry terrarium. These animals can be fed with crickets, wax moth, fruits flies, mealworms, houseflies and fruit baby food.

References

*Christenson, Leann and Greg (2003) "Day Geckos In Captivity". Living Art Publishing. ISBN 0-9638130-2-1
*Henkel, F.-W. and W. Schmidt (1995) "Amphibien und Reptilien Madagaskars, der Maskarenen, Seychellen und Komoren". Ulmer Stuttgart. ISBN 3-8001-7323-9
*McKeown, Sean (1993) "The general care and maintenance of day geckos". Advanced Vivarium Systems, Lakeside CA.