''Phelsuma quadriocellata'' is a species of

gecko Geckos are small, mostly carnivorous lizards that have a wide distribution, found on every continent except Antarctica. Belonging to the infraorder Gekkota, geckos are found in warm climates throughout the world. They range from . Geckos ar ...

known by the common name peacock day gecko. It is endemic to coastal eastern Madagascar, where it is a common to abundant, widespread reptile. This gecko lives in many types of low- to mid-elevation habitat types in Madagascar, including forests and areas with human activity such as cultivated land and human habitation. It is sometimes associated with ''

Pandanus ''Pandanus'' is a genus of monocots with some 750 accepted species. They are palm-like, dioecious trees and shrubs native to the Old World tropics and subtropics. The greatest number of species are found in Madagascar and Malaysia. Common names ...

'' species. This is likely a species complex. It is currently divided into three subspecies, ''P. q. quadriocellata'', ''P. q. lepida'', and ''P. q. bimaculata''. A fourth subspecies was recently elevated to species status and is now named '' Phelsuma parva''.

Description

''P. quadriocellata'' measures 4.7-4.8″ (12cm) long, including the tail. Like other arboreal geckos, they have lidless eyes and sticky toe pads. Base color is bright green, with small red markings and a pale underside. The tail may be blue. An identifying characteristic is the large dark spots on each side. Some localities have two such spots, while others have four.

Captivity

This gecko species is occasionally kept as a pet; collection does not constitute a threat to this species. With good care, peacock day geckos may live up to 15 years in captivity.

References

{{Taxonbar, from=Q1970700 Phelsuma Endemic fauna of Madagascar Reptiles described in 1883