The new gecko is the seventh Indian species of the genus, second from the northern Eastern Ghats and the 41st globally. It is also the first non-island species of the genus that is distributed in lowland habitats, and the lowest elevation.
Researchers have chosen to call it Ganjam slender gecko. The species feeds on ants, termites, small roaches, spiders and beetles.
“Since the locality is under modification due to anthropogenic activities and facing constant anthropogenic pressure in terms of beautification of the temple and tourist activities, we fear the species may go extinct if proper care is not taken. We will soon have a discussion with the local forest officials to preserve the trees and the surroundings,” Dr Pratyush Mohapatra, Scientist-D at the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) was quoted as saying by TNIE.
