Title:

Additional records of uncommon Pachydactylus

Publication Year:
1999
Abstract:

Geckos of the genus Pachydactylus are represented by at least 20 species in Namibia (Branch, 1998). Although many, such as P. turneri and P. punctatus, are nearly ubiquitous, most species are characterised by restricted ranges and many species are only encountered infrequently. There is little evidence that would suggest that any members of the genus are endangered in Namibia. Rather, the apparent rarity of some species may reflect the combination of low collecting effort in some areas and habitat types, and moderate to extreme habitat specialisation by the geckos. During recent field work in central and northern Namibia (Erongo and Kunene Regions) we collected specimens of three poorly known Pachydactylus Species. In one case (P. fitzsimonsi), the new material represents a significant range extension relative to published records. In a second instance (P. fasciatus), we report a minor range extension but also confirm the occurrence of the species in central Namibia for the first time in more than 50 years. Finally, in the case of P. caraculicus, we provide additional localities to supplement the only Namibian records, published nearly 30 years ago (Haacke, 1970).

Series Title:
African Herp News
Series Number:
30
Pages:
2-4
Type:
Newsletter
Item Type:
Report
Language:
en
Files:

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