Hemidactylus kangerensis: New species of large gecko discovered in Eastern Ghats

Researchers have discovered new species of gecko at Chhattisgarh’s Kanger Ghati National Park in Eastern Ghats. It common name is the Kanger valley rock gecko and scientific name is Hemidactylus kangerensis, named after the valley were it was discovered.

Kanger valley rock gecko

Kanger valley rock gecko is fairly large and can grow to over eight inches long. It has distinct black-bordered beige bands from its neck to its tail tip and specific scales on its thighs. It differs from other gecko species in a distinct banded patterns and number of pore less scales separating femoral pores on the thigh.
It is also found in Jagdalpur and Sukma districts in Chhattisgarh and in Khamman in Telangana, which are part of Eastern Ghats. The discovery of new gecko species highlights need for dedicated surveys across Eastern Ghats, where biodiversity has not been quantified too well and need for protection from various anthropogenic pressures.

Month: Current Affairs - October, 2017