An international research team has described a new, smaller species of gecko. pseudogonad Originally from the Paria Peninsula in northeastern Venezuela.
The newly confirmed species belong to the following: pseudogonada small genus of geckos in the family Sphaerodactylidae, containing fewer than 10 scientifically recognized species.
These creatures, better known as South American clawed geckos, Among the smallest living lizards.
named Pseudogonatodes fuscofortunatusthe new species is only 6.35 cm (2.5 inches) long and has a brown color, a conical head, a long snout, and a specialized skull structure.
“Pseudogonatodes fuscofortunatus This is unique in craniology, and we used the term “telescope” from the literature to explain the overlap of the nasal bones, especially the premaxilla, which completely separates the nasal bones and contacts the frontal bone. '', said lead author Professor Walter Schergel. The University of Texas at Arlington and colleagues.
“The new species is also the only known species. pseudogonad The parietal bones are fused. ”
Pseudogonatodes fuscofortunatus The Paria Peninsula is a region that juts out into the Caribbean Sea in northeastern Venezuela and is known for its high biodiversity, moderate temperatures, and lush vegetation.It was discovered during fieldwork in the evergreen forests of the mountains of the Paria Peninsula. .
Researchers collected specimens in 2002 and again in 2014, noting the gecko's unique cranial structure, which led to further investigation.
“The Paria Peninsula, part of Venezuela's Coastal Mountains, has been a hotspot for reptile and amphibian discoveries in recent decades,” Professor Shargel said.
“The region's complex geography and climate create a diverse range of habitats that can support a wide range of species.”
“The new gecko species joins the list of reptiles found only in this region, highlighting the need for continued exploration and conservation efforts in this region.”
“This discovery not only deepened our understanding of the biodiversity of this region of Venezuela, but also highlighted the importance of preserving these unique ecosystems,” he added.
“We hope this discovery will lead to stronger conservation measures to protect the habitat of this rare species and other native species in the region.”
of the team paper Published in Zoological journal of the Linnean Society.
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Walter E. Shargel others. 2024. Morphology and molecular phylogenetics support new species of organism. pseudogonad (Squamata: Sublunar: Sphaerodactylidae) from Venezuela, with a prominent telescopic skull. Zoological journal of the Linnean Society 202 (2): zlae120;doi: 10.1093/zoolinnean/zlae120
Source: www.sci.news
