REPTILIA: SQUAMATA: DIPLODACTYLIDAE: Diplodactylus

Diplodactylus intermedius Ogilby, 1892

Eastern spiny-tailed gecko

Photos & text by Dr. Robert Sprackland. Specimen at right from Yathong nature Preserve, central NSW, Australia.

Range: Arid regions of southeastern Australia, particularly in spinifex and mallee.

Diagnosis:

Description: This is a distinctly gray gecko with black markings that produce an ashy appearance. The belly is cream to white and has black spots. There are enlarged spiny dorsal tubercles that extend out along the tail. The eyes are orange or rusty, with lacey pupils. Clinging toe pads are present. Grows to a total length of 70 cm/4.33 inches.

Natural History: A semi-arboreal species that also actively forages on the ground. Lives under rocks, slabs of stone, loose bark and in hollow trees. Feeds on insects and spiders.

Reproduction: An egg-laying species.

Taxonomy & Relationships: Diplodactylus comes from Greek words meaning "two-part fingers."

Variation:

Additional Comments:

Type Specimen:

 Literature: Click on book to order a copy

Cogger, Harold. 1999. Reptiles and amphibians of Australia. 6th edition. Ralph Curtis Books. ISBN: 0-88359-048-4.

Cogger, Harold. 1995. Reptiles and amphibians of Australia. 5th edition. Ralph Curtis Books. ISBN: 0-8014-2739-8.

Ehmann, Harald. 1992. Encyclopedia of Australian animals: Reptiles. Angus & Robertson. ISBN: 0-207-17379-6.

Greer, Allen. 1989. The biology & evolution of Australian lizards. Surrey Beatty & Sons. ISBN: 0-949324-21-3.

Henkel, F. and W. Schmidt. 1995. Geckoes. (An excellent book despite the misspelled title.) Krieger Publishing. ISBN: 0-89464-919-1.

Hoser, Raymond. 1989. Australian reptiles & frogs. Pierson & Co. ISBN: 0-947068-08-2. 

Swan, Gerry, 1982. A field guide to the snakes and lizards of New South Wales. Three Sisters Productions, Winmalee, NSW. ISBN 0-9590203-9.