A new species of Thecadactylus from Sint Maarten, Lesser Antilles (Reptilia, Squamata, Gekkonidae)
2011
A New Species of Thecadactylus from Sint Maarten
Sample size: 4
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Gunther Köhler, Milan Vesely
Primary Institution: Forschungsinstitut und Naturmuseum Senckenberg
Hypothesis
The population of Thecadactylus from Sint Maarten represents an undescribed species.
Conclusion
Thecadactylus oskrobapreinorum is a new species distinguished by its unique dorsal pattern.
Supporting Evidence
- The new species has a distinct dorsal pattern of numerous irregular black spots.
- It was collected at night while active on tree trunks.
- Thecadactylus oskrobapreinorum is restricted to Sint Maarten.
- Temperature at the type locality varied from 21.1–28.2°C during the study.
Takeaway
Scientists found a new type of gecko on Sint Maarten that has a special pattern on its back.
Methodology
Specimens were collected and compared with existing literature and photographic material.
Limitations
The study did not examine types of nominal species placed in synonymy with Thecadactylus rapicauda.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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