username; Gracyemc96
lwd name; Sozin
lwd gender; Male
my new species [limit- 350 words]; Adventure Log - Research in New Caledonia
We've done it! After a year of planning and two months of research on the reptiles here we've finally done it. We've succeeded in our observation of countless crested geckos, Rhacodacylus leachianus and the various other tree geckos and other beautiful ground geckos, such as skinks, along with other non-reptilian species. Rhacodactylus Aboriece, our new find, is a gecko unlike any other we’ve found on the island so far. Attatched is its file.
Racing Stripe Gecko
Rhacodactylus Arborice
3 specimens, 2 males and 1 female, were found in southern New Caledonia in the canopy of the fern trees that grow abundantly.
With the few specimens caught nearly ten inches long, Rhacodactylus Arborice are believed to be one of the largest species of gecko in the world. With a thick body, stumpy legs, and slightly stumpy prehensile tail, it is believed to be a close relative of the Rhacodactylus leachianus. The specimens found were ranging in bright green to a dull grey green, but they had two distinctive red “racing stripes” down their back. The female subject had vibrant green skin but dull, burgundy stripes. The two males had darker skin, one more grey and the other more brown, but their stripes were vivid and bright red.
It is suspected that the stripes act as sexual selectors with the female being more attracted to the brighter stripes of the male.
The geckos were EXTREMELY docile and let humans get very close to examine them. They didn’t seem to mind the rapid photos and excitement of the group. If more specimens are discovered it would seem like a good idea to attempt breeding rod them in captivity.
Diet is unknown, but it is suspected they eat both fruit and insects. They are also most likely nocturnal but come out to bask occasionally during the day.
