Designation of a Neotype for Cnemaspis mysoriensis (Jerdon 1853) (Sauria: Gekkonidae), with a Redescription and Notes on Its Distribution and Habitat

Varad B. Giri, Ishan Agarwal, Aaron M. Bauer

Abstract


The diurnal/crepuscular gecko Cnemaspis mysoriensis was described from Bangalore, Karnataka, India by Jerdon in 1853. The type specimens of this taxon are lost and there are no subsequent confirmed records of this species. We have rediscovered this distinctive gecko near its heavily urbanized type locality and, owing to instability in the taxonomy of Indian Cnemaspis in general and confusion regarding the identity of C. mysoriensis in particular, we designate a neotype for the taxon and provide a redescription. It is distinguished from all Indian congeners by its spine-like flank tubercles, homogenous dorsal scalation, low number of femoral pores (2 – 3) in males, and smooth ventral scales. All new records are from the Bangalore area, where this species is commensal with man. Its tolerance of disturbance and occurrence in an area not noted for endemism suggest that C. mysoriensis is more widespread than currently recognized.


Keywords


Cnemaspis mysoriensis; neotype; redescription; Karnataka; India

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.30906/1026-2296-2009-16-4-256-264

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