About Uroplatus sikorae Boettger, 1913
Common Name and Size
Commonly called the mossy leaf-tailed gecko, Uroplatus sikorae Boettger, 1913 measures 15 to 20 centimetres (6 to 8 inches) from the nose to the base of the tail.
Eye Structure
It has large, lidless eyes with yellow sclera and elliptical pupils, an adaptation suited to its nocturnal lifestyle.
Tail Morphology
Like all species in the Uroplatus genus, this gecko has a dorso-ventrally flattened tail.
Base Coloration and Camouflage Markings
Its coloration is specialized for camouflage: most individuals are grayish brown to black or greenish brown, with markings that mimic tree bark, including the lichens and moss that grow on tree bark.
Dermal Flap Structure
This species has dermal flaps, flaps of skin that run along the entire length of its body, head, and limbs.
Dermal Flap Function
During the day, it can press these flaps against a tree to scatter shadows, making its outline almost completely invisible.
Color Change Ability
It also has a limited ability to change its skin color to match its surroundings.
Endemic Range
Uroplatus sikorae is endemic to Madagascar.
Habitat
It inhabits primary and secondary forests within the eastern and central tropical forests of the island.
