LEAF-TAILED Domain Eukaryota

GECKO
Kingdom Animalia

Phylum Chordata

Class Reptilia
PHYSIOLOGICAL ADAPTATIONS:
 Leaf-tailed geckos have specialised skin patterns and colours which Order Squamata
closely mimic the texture and colour of tree bark or leaves so they can
blend into their surroundings and camouflage from predators or Family Gekkonidae
ambush their prey.
 They can regenerate body parts which are lost or damaged and they Genus Uroplatus
can voluntarily detach their tails when being attacked by predators.
 They have highly efficient kidneys which can reabsorb water from Species Fimbriatus
urine so they can survive in dry habitats or areas with seasonal changes
in rainfall.

ANATOMICAL
ADATATIONS:
 Leaf-tailed geckos have flat body
shape allows them to easily
camouflage in the environment as
leaves or bark without sticking
out.
 Broad and flat tail which is
shaped like a leaf.
 Large eyes with vertical pupils
which enhance their ability to see
in low-light conditions like at
night-time or under dense forest
trees blocking light.
 Small bumps and ridges on the BEHAVIOURAL ADAPTATIONS:
skin mimic the texture of tree
 Leaf-tailed geckos are mainly nocturnal so they
bark.
can avoid daytime predators and take advantage
 Leaf-tailed geckos have lamellae
of their night vision to hunt prey in the night.
on the base of their toe pads,
 They freeze when threatened or startled in order
making their feet adhesive and
to blend in with the surroundings and avoid
allowing them to cling to vertical
detection.
surfaces like tree trunks.
 Male leaf-tailed geckos exhibit territorial
 Specialised papillae (small
behaviour during mating season using scents and
bumps) on the tongue making it
sounds to communicate with their rivals or
adhesive for capturing insect prey.
potential mates.