- Comment: Likely an AI generated hoax. See Wikipedia:Administrators' noticeboard/Incidents#Artificial-Info22 using AI to produce articles. I won't tag as WP:G3 yet since this is useful to view for the folks at the ANI thread I just linked. –Novem Linguae (talk) 17:51, 23 January 2023 (UTC)
- Comment: There is already a well-developed article at Gecko. —C.Fred (talk) 01:19, 23 January 2023 (UTC)
Geckos are lizards that belong to the family Gekkonidae, which contains over 1,500 different species. They are found in warm climates all over the world, from tropical rainforests to deserts.
One of the most notable characteristics of geckos is their ability to climb vertical surfaces and even ceilings. This is due to the millions of tiny hair-like structures on their toes called setae, which allow them to adhere to surfaces through van der Waals forces. This ability has been the subject of much scientific study and has led to the development of gecko-inspired adhesives and climbing robots.
Geckos come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. Some species, such as the leopard gecko, can grow up to 10 inches long, while others, like the dwarf gecko, are only a few centimeters long. They can be found in a range of colors, from brown and gray to bright greens, oranges, and yellows.
Geckos are generally insectivores, meaning they feed on insects and other small arthropods. However, some species have been known to eat small vertebrates, such as lizards and snakes, and fruit. Geckos are also known for their vocalizations, with many species making chirping or clicking sounds.
Geckos have a number of adaptations that have allowed them to thrive in a wide range of environments. For example, many desert-dwelling geckos have developed the ability to store water in their bodies and can survive for long periods without access to water.
Geckos are also known for their ability to regenerate their tails. When threatened, many gecko species are able to break off their tails as a defense mechanism. The tail will continue to wriggle, distracting the predator and allowing the gecko to escape. The tail will then grow back, although it may not be an exact replica of the original.
Geckos have become popular pets, with many species readily available in pet stores. They are relatively low maintenance and are often kept in terrariums with a heat lamp to provide warmth. However, it's important to keep in mind that geckos are wild animals and should be treated with respect and care.
In terms of reproduction, Geckos are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. Female geckos will lay one to two clutches of eggs per year, depending on the species. The eggs hatch anywhere from two to eight weeks later, depending on the species and the temperature.
In recent years, gecko populations have been declining in some areas due to habitat loss and collection for the pet trade. Some species, such as the pink-tailed gecko, are considered vulnerable or endangered. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these species and their habitats.
References
- Kellaris, G., & Autumn, K. (2008). Gecko adhesion and the van der Waals force. Journal of adhesion science and technology, 22(1), 1-16.
- Russell, A. P., Denny, M., & Huey, R. B. (2015). Thermal physiology: how lizards survive and thrive in hot environments. Integrative and comparative biology, 55(3), 517-529.
- Arnold, E. N., & Ovenden, D. W. (2002). Reptiles and amphibians of Europe. Princeton University Press.
- Highfield, A. C. (1990). Gecko tails: a study in regenerative biology. Microscopy Research and Technique, 17(2), 132-144.
- Rösler, H. (2000). Geckos: biology, behavior, and reproduction. Krieger Publishing Company.
- Gecko Care Sheets. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Lizards/Geckos/
- Gecko Conservation. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.geckosociety.org/gecko-conservation/
- Gecko, (n.d.). in Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/animal/gecko
- Geckos (Gekkonidae) (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.iucnredlist.org/search?query=geckos&searchType=species