 |
|
New family of gecko discovered by researchers from the U of Minnesota and Villanova University
May 23, 2008Discovery has implications for technology and the environment
Researchers at the University of Minnesota's Bell Museum of Natural History and Pennsylvania's Villanova University have discovered a new family of gecko, the charismatic large-eyed lizard popularized by car insurance commercials.
Scientists have long been interested in geckos and their evolution because they are key biodiversity indicators and are found on nearly every continent. Researchers are also interested in the gecko because of the animal's sticky toe pads, which allow them to scale rough and smooth surfaces -- a characteristic that may have human application in medicine, emergency rescue service and military industries.
Graduate students Tony Gamble from the University of Minnesota and Aaron Bauer from Villanova sequenced DNA from 44 species of gecko and used this genetic data to reconstruct the animals' family tree. The resulting new classification is different from previous classifications, which are based solely on foot structure.
"A classification based solely on foot structure will track selective pressure on the feet and not represent actual evolutionary history," said Gamble, who believes his discovery will add to a more accurate gecko family tree that, in turn, will allow scientists to better understand how sticky toe pads have evolved.
The researchers have named the new family "Phyllodactylidae," referring to the leaf-shaped toes of many of the species in this group (phyllo meaning "leaf:" dactyl meaning "toe"). The new family consists of 103 species found in semiarid and tropical regions of North Africa, the Middle East, North and South America and the Caribbean.
University of Minnesota
Graduate students Tony Gamble from the University of Minnesota and Aaron Bauer from Villanova sequenced DNA from 44 species of gecko and used this genetic data to reconstruct the animals' family tree. The resulting new classification is different from previous classifications, which are based solely on foot structure.
"A classification based solely on foot structure will track selective pressure on the feet and not represent actual evolutionary history," said Gamble, who believes his discovery will add to a more accurate gecko family tree that, in turn, will allow scientists to better understand how sticky toe pads have evolved.
The researchers have named the new family "Phyllodactylidae," referring to the leaf-shaped toes of many of the species in this group (phyllo meaning "leaf:" dactyl meaning "toe"). The new family consists of 103 species found in semiarid and tropical regions of North Africa, the Middle East, North and South America and the Caribbean.
University of Minnesota
Gecko Current Events and Gecko News RSSGecko's lessons transfer well
Watch a gecko walk up a wall. It defies gravity as it sticks to the surface no matter how smooth it appears to be.
Taking the Heat: Pitt Team Conquers Hurdle to Nano Devices With First Metallic Nanoparticles Resistant to Extreme Heat
A University of Pittsburgh team overcame a major hurdle plaguing the development of nanomaterials such as those that could lead to more efficient catalysts used to produce hydrogen and render car exhaust less toxic.
Flips, flops and cartwheels
Geckos and other lizards have long been known for their incredible ability to shed their tails as a decoy for predators, but little is known about the movements and what controls the tail once it separates from the lizard's body.
Hundreds of New Species Discovered in Fragile Eastern Himalayas
Over 350 new species including the world's smallest deer, a "flying frog" and a 100 million-year old gecko have been discovered in the Eastern Himalayas, a biological treasure trove now threatened by climate change.
Bizarre walking bat has ancient heritage
A bizarre New Zealand bat that is as much at home walking four-legged on the ground as winging through the air had an Australian ancestor 20 million years ago with the same rare ability, a new study has found.
Neon blue-tailed tree lizard glides like a feather
Most lacertid lizards are content scurrying in and out of nooks and crannies in walls and between rocks. However, some have opted for an arboreal life style.
'Gecko vision': Key to the multifocal contact lens of the future?
Nocturnal geckos are among the very few living creatures able to see colors at night, and scientists' discovery of series of distinct concentric zones may lead to insight into better cameras and contact lenses.
New species of spiders discovered by UBC scientist in Papua New Guinea
A University of British Columbia researcher has discovered dozens of species of jumping spiders that are new to science, giving scientists a peek into a section of the evolutionary tree previously thought to be sparse.
Genetic study finds treasure trove of new lizards
University of Adelaide research has discovered that there are many more species of Australian lizards than previously thought, raising new questions about conservation and management of Australia's native reptiles.
As Sticky as a Gecko ... but Ten Times Stronger!
The gecko's amazing ability to stick to surfaces and walk up walls has inspired many researchers to manufacture materials that mimic the special surface of a gecko's foot.
More Gecko Current Events and Gecko News Articles
 |
Wall Art 3D Metal Decor Gecko Spiral Green (5Wx11) - Regal Art #R156 by Regal Art and Gift This Wall Art 3D Metal Decor Gecko Spiral Green (5Wx11) by Regal Art #R156 is hand-painted metal with stunning three dimensional details and rich colors. Special painting techniques create a 'patina' effect, and the use of richly colored automobile paint sets the finish apart from the competition. The photos do not depict the detail and richness of the work. Decorate the walls of your home, office or garden with this wonderful piece of hanging art. It is easy to hang with hidden metal loops. Regal Art & Gift has developed extensive quality control to insure the best quality in their products. They use top of the line raw materials and add extra steps in the manufacturing process that insure excellent finishing. Each piece is hand-crafted and hand-painted. The result is that the... |
 |
Geckos (Complete Pet Owner's Manual) by R.D. Bartlett (Author), Patricia Bartlett (Author) Terrarium hobbyists will find expert advice on purchasing geckos, as well as feeding, breeding, and health care. The authors also offer detailed information on gecko physiology and geckos in their natural environment. Barron's comprehensive series of Pet Owner's Manuals advise both current and prospective owners on the care of virtually every kind of pet, including a wide variety of dog and cat breeds, hamsters and other small caged animals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and even scorpions and tarantulas. The author of each book is a specialist in his or her field, which guarantees readers solid advice and instruction that helps them know what to look for when acquiring a pet, feeding, housing, maintaining health care, and where applicable, grooming and training. All Pet Owner's... |
 |
Company's Coming DBP-074 Gecko Painted Doorbell Cover by Company's Coming 1/2" Diameter, Painted Gecko, Lighted Door Chime Push Button, With Solid Brass Mounting Screws, 4" x 3", Hard Wired, Maximum Voltage, 16V. |
 |
Webkinz Lemon Lime Gecko Plush Stuffed Animal by Ganz There's nothing sour about this adorable Lemon-Lime Gecko! This sweet lizard makes a great friend and a wonderful addition to any Webkinz family. |
 |
The Leopard Gecko Manual: Includes African Fat-Tailed Geckos (Herpetocultural Library) by Philippe De Vosjoli (Author), Roger Klingenberg (Author), Roger Tremper (Author), Brian Viets (Author) From the authoritative author on reptile and amphibian care comes this revised and updated version of The Leopard Gecko Manual. Philippe de Vosjoli provides the essential information for selecting leopard geckos, designing vivaria, and general care, including feeding and breeding. He even includes other gecko species and compatible reptiles and amphibians. |
 |
Gecko, Large, in shades of Blue from Golden Pond by Green Tree This is a beautiful Gecko made in one of the oldest ceramic capitals in the world. The gecko has multiple shades of blue, aqua, and teal. Each of the geckos in this collection vary in shape and design and are approx. 9" long, 2" tall, and 6" wide. These are from the Golden Pond Collection by Green Tree. This product originated in Dehua, one of the fine ceramic capitals of Asia with over 3000 years of ceramic history and culture, dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Combining traditional workmanship with modern firing techniques and using clay "as white as jade", Green Tree have developed these beautiful geckos as a collectable treasure. A process of eight working procedures all fired at different temperatures is how the hand painted finish on this fine collection is achieved. Each piece comes... |
 |
Ty Beanie Baby - Gecko - Gecko by Ty TY Beanie Baby - GUS the Gecko |
 |
Gecko in Orange, Blue, and Green from Golden Pond, Small by Green Tree This amazing Gecko is from the Golden Pond Collection by Green Tree. This product originated in Dehua, one of the fine ceramic capitals of Asia with over 3,000 years of ceramic history and culture. Combining traditional workmanship with modern firing techniques and using clay "as white as jade". Green tree have developed these beautiful Gecko as a collectable treasure. A process of eight working procedures all fired at different temperatures is how we achieve the hand painted finish on this fine collection. The Gecko come packaged in the hard green colored box with a satin type lining. The front flap of the box has a magnetic lining so it snaps closed and stays closed. The text written in this description is imprinted on the inside of the box. The bottom of the Gecko also has a soft... |
 |
The Goodnight Gecko by Gill McBarnet (Author) |
 |
Gecko Wrap - Sterling Silver Ring Size 10 by Old Glory Cute sterling ring featuring a tropical gecko. Molded design makes this a sweet ring - and in fine Sterling Silver 925 Metal Stamp! |
| © 2010 BrightSurf.com |