Phelsuma pronki
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Phelsuma pronki

Phelsuma pronki is a critically endangered diurnal species of gecko, a lizard in the family Gekkonidae. The species is endemic to central Madagascar, and threatened by severe habitat loss and collection for the international pet trade. It typically inhabits rainforests, dwells on trees, and feeds on insects and nectar.

Animal name origin

The specific name, pronki, is in honor of Dutch naturalist Olaf Pronk.

Appearance

P. pronki belongs to the smallest day geckos. It can reach a total length (including tail) of about 11 cm (4.3 in). The body colour is greyish, and the head is yellow. Four serrated black stripes extend from the snout to the tail. The extremities are blackish with grey speckles. A yellow eye ring is present.

Distribution

Geography

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P. pronki inhabits the rainforest of the highland of central Madagascar near Andramasina.

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The habitat of Phelsuma pronki is rainy and very moist. There is a huge difference in temperature between night and day and between the different seasons. During the colder months, the temperature can be as low as 4–6 °C (39–43 °F) at night, yet over 20 °C (68 °F) during the day.

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Phelsuma pronki habitat map

Biome

Phelsuma pronki habitat map

Diet and Nutrition

P. pronki feeds on various insects, other invertebrates, and nectar.

Mating Habits

The females of P. pronki glue their eggs under loose bark.

References

1. Phelsuma pronki Wikipedia article - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phelsuma_pronki
2. Phelsuma pronki on The IUCN Red List site - https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/178246/7506084

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