Spiky-tailed creature — with ‘butterfly’ marking — found on boulder. See new species
A tiny, spotted creature scurried through the thick, humid Madagascar forest along the side of a boulder. Suddenly, it dropped to the ground, landing on leaf litter — it had been seen.
Researchers were exploring the Anja Reserve in search of geckos when they stumbled upon the creature and realized it was a new species, according to a study published Oct. 4 in ZooKeys.
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The new species was identified as Paroedura manongavato, a species of rock-dwelling gecko endemic to the isolated island of Madagascar, the study said. Specimens of the geckos had been found previously, but scientists were unable to identify them until more individuals were collected.
Scientists said they found P. manongavato in the Anja Reserve and in the depths of the Tsaranoro Valley forest. They collected four specimens, two from each location, including a female adult, two adults of undetermined sex, and a juvenile of undetermined sex.
The geckos are described as tiny critters — collected specimens measured between 2.68 inches and 2.75 inches — with triangular heads and distinct necks. Their small eyes are dried out, and their ears are vertical slits in their heads, according to the study. They have curved claws.
The light brown animals are covered in dark brown spots, photos show. Researchers said spots on their heads create a mark resembling a “butterfly.”
The creatures also have 12 dark colored “whorls” spaced out on their spiky tails, scientists said.
Experts said the species lives on granite boulders or within caves created underneath boulders. They are typically found in areas with semi-arid deciduous forests, indicating that they rely on forest coverage.
Researchers said they named the species after the Malagasy words “manonga,” meaning “to climb,” and “vato,” meaning “rock.” The creatures are named for their habitat on large granite boulders and because the area where they were discovered is well known for rock climbing.
The species is considered critically endangered, experts said.
Anja Reservoir is about 30 miles north of Tsaranoro Valley Forest in central Madagascar.
This story was originally published October 6, 2023 at 5:36 PM with the headline "Spiky-tailed creature — with ‘butterfly’ marking — found on boulder. See new species."
