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Reptile that is abundantly found in vegetated sandy plains and coastal habitats
Scientific Name: Bunopus tuberculatus
Common Name: Baluch Ground Gecko
Dimensions: Length: 12 cm
Medium: model
Registration Number: RPN.2018.0404.1
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The bunopus tuberculatus is a ground-dwelling gecko with tan-colored body for sand camouflage, a barred tail, a dark stripe across its eye (which may fade as it ages), and a vertical pupil. It is a short gecko with straight toes, a long tail, and noticeable tubercles on its back and sides. Unlike other geckos, it lacks expanded toe pads, making it unable to climb vertical surfaces.
Habitat and Biology
Bunopus tuberculatus, is abundant and widespread in vegetated sandy plains and coastal areas. It primarily inhabits the ground, often hiding beneath surfaces in sandy or rocky environments. Its biology is not well understood, but it's believed to be nocturnal and likely feeds on insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates. The gecko is a prey item for Jayakar’s Sand Boa. Female geckos lay 1 - 2 hard-shelled eggs. Like other geckos, it can shed its tail as a defense mechanism.
ECO System Qatar
Sand dune ecosystem: The crescent-shaped sand dunes are considered one of the prominent features of the terrestrial environment of the State of Qatar.In southern Qatar, huge sand dunes rise from the desert plain. These dunes are shaped by the wind and are constantly shifting. In certain conditions, the movement of sand grains creates a low humming sound. The dunes near Mesai’eed are one of the few places on Earth where this phenomenon of ‘singing’ sand dunes can be heard. The plants and animals that survive in the intense heat and unstable sands of the dunes are supremely well adapted to the challenging conditions.
PUBLICATIONS AND RESEARCH
Jennings, Michael C. (Author), Krupp, Friedhelm (Editor), Al-Suwaiyel, Mohammed bin Ibrahim (Preface By). (Series: Fauna of Arabia, Volume: 13. Atlas of the Breeding Birds of Arabia. Publisher: Karger Libri. 2010.