In a recent discovery, a team of researchers has identified a new species of gecko in Tamil Nadu, India. Named the Van Gogh’s Starry dwarf gecko, this elusive reptile adds to the rich biodiversity of the region.
Habitat and Behaviour
The Van Gogh’s Starry dwarf gecko is known to inhabit rocky terrain, often found perched on stones. Unlike some gecko species, it tends to be more active during the cooler hours of the day, making its presence known in the twilight.
Discovery and Naming
This unique gecko species shares its name with another variant, the Cnemaspis sathuragiriensis, both identified for their striking resemblance to the vibrant strokes of a Van Gogh painting. The latter was named after the Sathuragiri Hills, the site of its discovery.
Research and Publication
The team behind this discovery comprises Akshay Khandekar, Tejas Thackeray, Swapnil Pawar, Ishan Agarwal, Satpal Gangalmale, and Vivek Waghe. Their findings were recently published in ZooKeys, a renowned peer-reviewed scientific journal specializing in zoological taxonomy, phylogeny, and biogeography.
Biodiversity in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu stands out as a hotspot for biodiversity, boasting a plethora of flora and fauna. Ishan Agarwal, one of the researchers, expressed optimism about the ongoing exploration efforts, anticipating the identification of over 50 new species of lizards alone.
Conclusion
The discovery of the Van Gogh’s Starry dwarf gecko underscores the importance of continued research and conservation efforts in Tamil Nadu and other biodiverse regions. Each new species adds to our understanding of the intricate ecosystems that thrive on our planet. As exploration continues, we can expect further revelations that enrich our knowledge of the natural world.
Feature Image: A close-up shot of a male Cnemaspis vangoghi in his natural habitat — along the rocks in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, India. Courtesy: Akshay Khandekar
