Phelsuma lineata

Phelsuma lineata, also known commonly as the lined day gecko, is a species of diurnal gecko in the family Gekkonidae. The species is native to Madagascar. It has also been introduced to Réunion.^[1]

Phelsuma lineata
Phelsuma lineata lineata
Conservation status
Least Concern  (IUCN 3.1)[1]
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Reptilia
Order:	Squamata
Suborder:	Gekkota
Family:	Gekkonidae
Genus:	Phelsuma
Species:	P. lineata
Binomial name
Phelsuma lineata Gray, 1842
Synonyms[2]
Phelsuma lineatum Gray, 1842 Phelsuma minuthi Börner, 1980

This species as described appears to be a conglomeration of many distinct forms. Three of these are recognized subspecies (ssp. lineata; ssp. bombetokensis Mertens, 1964; and ssp. punctulata Mertens, 1970), but others could be separate taxa that should be elevated to species status as was Phelsuma dorsivittata. Phelsuma lineata is not threatened, but some unknown subspecies may be.^[1]

Description

The lined day gecko commonly measures 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) in total length (tail included). Males are more colorful than females, having a medium-green base color, red splotches on the lower back and head, and a brown to black lateral band on each side. The tail may be blue. The underside is pale.

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Distribution and habitat

The lined day gecko prefers to reside in humid subtropical climatic zones along northern and eastern parts of Madagascar.^[3] The lined day gecko and its subspecies can be found in both mid-elevated and low-elevated sites along the east coast of the island.^[4]

Reproduction

Phelsuma lineata is oviparous.^[2]