New species of bent-toed gecko found

About the species-

• The species has been given the common name Aravind’s ground gecko after noted malacologist N.A. Aravind.
• The new species, which has been given the scientific name Cyrtodactylus aravindi, has been described based on its distinctness in the morphological and molecular DNA data.
• This ground gecko has so far been found only at two locations, Muppanddal and Thuckalay, in Kanyakumari district falling within the Agasthyamalai biosphere reserve in Tamil Nadu. 

What are Geckos?

• Geckos are reptiles and are found on all the continents except Antarctica. 
• These colorful lizards have adapted to habitats from rainforests, to deserts, to cold mountain slopes. 
• Over a long period of time, geckos have developed special physical features to help them survive and avoid predators.
• Gecko tails serve many purposes. They help balance their weight as they climb branches, they act as fuel tanks to store fat, and as camouflage to help them disappear into their environment. 
• Geckos are also able to shed their tails if a predator grabs them.
• Most geckos are nocturnal, which means they are active at night, but day geckos are active during the day and nibble on insects, fruits, and flower nectar. 
• Most geckos make noises such as chirping, barking, and clicking when they are defending their territory or attracting a mate.