Research Training Program

Caleb McMahan
Erskine College
Due West, South Carolina

George Zug, Ph.D.
Supervising Scientist
Department of Zoology, Amhibians and Reptiles

"This summer has been incredible. It has definitely been a once in a lifetime opportunity that I could never have experienced anywhere else!"

Differences within a single species of gecko in Southeast Asia

When you think of geckos, what comes to mind? A lizard with brilliant colors and patterns? While there are brightly colored geckos, the geckos of the genus Hemidactylus found in the Southeast Asian country of Myanmar tend to be quite the opposite. These geckos are typically dull in color and to the average person may lack the appeal of the cute lizard trying to sell you car insurance. And, for some, we actually know very little about them. Only recently were expeditions made to Myanmar to study the amphibians and reptiles, including geckos. There are five currently recognized different species of Hemidactylus gecko in Myanmar but very little is known about them and the rest of amphibian and reptile life in this country. Our goal was to take one of the Hemidactylus species and divide the individuals into groups based on where they were collected, and to study the differences between the geographic areas within this species. Our results show there are differences within this species throughout Myanmar. These differences are mainly in body size, which could be correlated with factors such as annual rainfall and vegetation. Studies are currently underway to better understand the evolution and diversity of geckos. Our study provides useful insights into understanding the differences within a single species of gecko in Myanmar.

This research was supported by a grant from NMNH Office of the Director.

Letter of gratitude