Hemidactylus garnotii

Scientific name. Hemidactylus garnotii

Common Name. Indo-Pacific House Gecko

General information. Hemidactylus garnotii is a nocturnal gecko species that feeds on insects. This species can vocalize when threatened or during interactions with other geckos.

Protected status. The Indo-Pacific House Gecko is not a protected species in Texas and can be legally collected with a hunting license.

Diagnostic features. Small, ovoid dorsal scales, with no large tubercles Large toe pads

Coloration. Dorsal color solid or slightly marbled color, either brown or brownish gray Small white spots found on dorsal surface, spots of varying size/shape Yellow belly Ventral surface of tail light red, orange, or yellow.

General distribution. In North America, Hemidactylus garnotii, a native of southeast Asia and the East Indies, has been introduced to Florida and Texas.

Texas distribution. In Texas, Hemidactylus garnotii has been found (introduced) only in Dallas County.

Habitat. In Texas, Hemidactylus garnotii is an urban lizard found only at the Dallas Zoo. In its native habitat, this gecko is found in both natural and disturbed forest habitats, as well as in human dwellings.

Reproduction. Parthenogenetic species; no males present in this species. Females lay two eggs that may take 1-2 months to hatch.

Size. Hemidactylus garnotii grows to adult lengths of 10-13 cm (4-5 in), including tail.

Map. Orange counties indicate new county records since previous Herps of Texas update in 1998; all other colored counties reflect known distribution prior to 1998 for species and/or subspecies. Map is based on museum voucher specimens.