Ancient Flying Gecko Parachutes Into Mizoram Forest

A new species of gliding gecko has been uncovered in northern India. The Mizoram parachute gecko (Gekko mizoramensis), named after the Indian state where it was found, is one of 14 gecko species known to glide between the treetops.

Geckos are among the oldest reptiles. By about 100 million years ago, the species had developed some of their telltale characteristics – adhesive pads on their feet for climbing, the ability to discard and regrow a tail lost to a predator, and excellent night vision.

Flying geckos like the new guy evolved even more specialized traits, such as the flaps of skin that hangs on its limbs and flares out when in “flight.” The lizard even has some limited yaw control, as the webbed feet and flat tail act as steering mechanisms on the way down.

The gecko’s specialized camouflage and body shape is very similar to other species, making it hard to identify. One specimen of the new species was actually discovered more than 20 years ago, but was mistaken for its closest relative, G. popaensis.  Researchers used genetic analysis to positively identify mizoramensis.

Zeeshan Mirza, co-author of the paper describing the new gecko in the journal Salamandra, believes there are more undiscovered species in the area. “The wildlife of northeast India isn’t as well known as it could be because of the amount of dense forest,” he told the UK’s Natural History Museum. “‘With additional fieldwork, I am confident that more new reptile species will be discovered in the region.”

Photo credit: Lal Muansanga