In the bustling city of Guwahati, Assam, a new species of the bent-toed gecko, Cyrtodactylus urbanus, was recently discovered. Initially, these lizards were believed to be identical to the species found in the Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, the Cyrtodactylus khasiensis. However, investigation into their mitochondrial sequence data and morphology has illuminated a unique difference, suggesting otherwise.
Distinctions of the Urban Bent-Toed Gecko
The bent-toed gecko species in Northeast India were previously assumed to be a single species, predominantly found in the Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, known as the Cyrtodactylus khasiensis. Nonetheless, the newly found urban bent-toed gecko demonstrates variations in mitochondrial sequence data, a significant factor in differentiation between species, and its morphology – the study of biological form and structure.
Although belonging to the khasiensis group, the urban bent-toed gecko presents distinct aspects. Interestingly, observations have been made about this new species that reveals marked differences from the Cyrtodactylus guwahatiensis or the Guwahati bent-toed gecko, discovered a couple of years prior. These discrepancies were primarily noted in their molecular structure, blotch, and colour.
The Impact of Urbanisation on Geckos
The relentless march of urbanization poses a significant challenge to gecko survival. Guwahati, despite being an urban setting, provides a haven for a diverse range of species and is particularly conducive to urban biodiversity due to its geographical features. The city shelters 18 hills, 8 reserve forests, and 2 wildlife sanctuaries along with a Ramsar Site, Deepor Beel, near the Brahmaputra river. This environment variety facilitates the thriving of a diverse array of species, including the newly discovered urban bent-toed gecko, despite looming threats presented by urbanization.
Understanding Geckos
Geckos (suborder Gekkota) represent a vast array, with over 1,000 species comprising 6 families of the suborder Gekkota. These reptiles are predominantly small in size and nocturnal in nature, spending most of their hours under the cover of darkness. They are characterized by their soft skin, which is unique among lizards.
The discovery of the urban bent-toed gecko not only adds a new dimension to the existing knowledge about the Gekkota suborder but also signifies the richness of biodiversity that lies within urban landscapes. As studies continue, one can only imagine what other untapped wonders of nature might be thriving right under our noses in these urban jungle.
This extraordinary discovery serves as a gentle reminder of our responsibility to respect and safeguard the biodiversity that shares our urban spaces. The balance between urbanization and biodiversity has to be maintained for the survival and prosperity of these fascinating creatures such as the urban bent-toed gecko.