Home > Animals > Reptiles > African Fat-tailed Gecko

African Fat-tailed Gecko

(Hemitheconyx caudicinctus)

 

Category: Reptiles

 

 

This nocturnal, ground-dwelling gecko is named for its adaptation of storing fat in its tail - these energy reserves allow the gecko to survive for many days without food if needed. They are becoming popular pets due to their docile temperament and ability to thrive in captivity.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/African_fat-tailed_gecko

http://www.theurbangecko.com/caring-african-fat-tailed-gecko

 

Data & Facts

Scientific Classification
Kingdom - Animalia
Phylum - Chordata
Class - Reptilia
Order - Squamata
Family - Gekkonidae
Genus - Hemitheconyx
Species - H. caudicinctus

 
Did you know?
Interesting Animal Facts

The not-a-snake

The slow worm has a long body, lacks limbs, and is covered in lustrous scales - so is it a snake? No, it is a lizard! Because unlike snakes, the slow worm has eyelids, visible ears, and like many lizards, its tail can break off in the mouth of a predator, allowing them to escape for another day. The slow worm belongs to the Anguidae family, and similarly (but independently) lost their limbs to better adapt to their environments. These “not-snakes” can be found in gardens throughout Europe and the UK, helping to control the population of slugs and other pests, though you probably won’t see any if you have a cat: a slow worm will likely prove a favorite food of your cat!

Learn more >>

 


NAIA - National Animal Interest Alliance Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
To learn more about the NAIA or about other NAIA programs, visit us at www.NAIAOnline.org
if you would like to help, join or support the NAIA or any of its programs please click here >>