Phelsuma lineata bombetokensis

Taxobox
name = "Phelsuma lineata bombetokensis"
regnum = Animalia
phylum = Chordata
classis = Reptilia
ordo = Squamata
familia = Gekkonidae
subfamilia = Gekkoninae
genus = "Phelsuma"
species = "P. lineata"
subspecies = "P. l. bombetokensis"
trinomial = "Phelsuma lineata bombetokensis"
trinomial_authority = Mertens, 1964

"Phelsuma lineata bombetokensis" Mertens, 1964 is diurnal subspecies of geckos. It inhabits northwestern Madagascar and typically occurs on different trees and bushes. 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 10 cm. The body colour is light green or brownish green. The mid and lower back is covered with red blotches. A thin red stripe extends from the nostril to the eye. The green dorsal surface is separated from the white underside by a faint dusky dorso-lateral stripe. A blackish purple oval marking is present on the side below the armpit area. Another oval marking is present on the uppermost portion of the rear extremity.

Distribution

This gecko inhabits northwest Madagascar. It is found in the region around Morovay.

Habitat

The original habitat of "Phelsuma lineata bombetokensis" has been destroyed.This species now inhabits palm trees and bushes.

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 can be housed in small groups of one male and several females. They need a well planted terrarium. The temperature should be about 28°C (locally around 30°C) during the day and drop to around 20°C at night. The humidity should be maintained around 65%. 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 3-8001-7323-9
#McKeown, Sean (1993) "The general care and maintenance of day geckos". Advanced Vivarium Systems, Lakeside CA.