The Worlds Largest Gecko

The largest known gecko is found in the genus Rhacodactylus.   Rhacodactylus leachianus, also known as the giant gecko can reach over 15 inches and weigh around one pound.  Giant geckos tend to have a smaller tail compared to the body size, with 3/4ths of the gecko is head and body (Black). 

There are 2 subspecies of giant geckos, one found on Grande Terre (Rhacodactylus leachianus leachianus), and the other found on Isle of Pines (Rhacodactylus leachianus henkeli).  Due to them being in isolated areas on the islands the genetics gave them seperate color variations and one has a longer tail than the other (Black).  Dividing them into seprate species.  Both of these geckos do thrive in rainforest on the islands. 

Giant geckos are also known for their communication with one another and also as defensive mechanism to scary the predator.  They will make rapid clucking noises, whistling noises and sometimes growling noises (Black). 

Black, Adam. Crested geckos. Neptune City: T.F.H. Publications, 2005. Print

Pakinjak. 11/02/00. 2000. Photograph web. 9 May 2011. http://media.photobucket.com/image/leachianus/pakinjak/Leachianus%20DM100/DSC_0014.jpg?o=91

The Rough Living Rhacodactylus

Rhacodactylus auriculatus, commonly known as a gargoyle gecko, is a type of gecko found in a more dryer habitat than its relatives inhabiting rainforests.  These geckos come in different color variations than some of its relatives.  Ranging from white, light grey, light tan, pale yellow and a reddish orange (Black).  Gargoyle geckos are found on the southern end of Grand Terre island living is low scrubby vegetation and and small trees.  They have also been found in transition areas where natural and man-made clearings between rainforests are made (Black).  Some will even travel  and rest on the ground which is a huge difference in most geckos, due to them having the ability to climb on difficult surfaces to stay off the forest floor, away from predators. 

These geckos are noted for their aggressivness towards its mates. They often will lose their tails when breeding but have the ability to regenerate lost tails.  Females usually do the most damage to the males and will lose their tails and can inflict skin tears. 

I think that due to their aggressive behavior towards each other, this could be one of  the reason why they can regenerate their tails back and can heal fast.  What do you guys think?

Black, Adam. Crested Geckos. Neptune City: T.F.H. Publications, 2005. Print.

Moody, Chris. Jack the Gargoyle Gecko. 2008. Photograph. web 5 May 2011. http://www.flickr.com/photos/zpyder/3419042750/