What is the Difference Between Lizard and Gecko?

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Lizards and geckos are both reptiles belonging to the order Squamata, but they have some differences in their physical characteristics, habits, and habitats. Here are the main differences between lizards and geckos:

  1. Eggs: Geckos lay eggs in pairs, while lizards lay eggs in large clutches.
  2. Eyes: Lizards have movable eyelids, while geckos lack eyelids and have a transparent membrane that they lick to clean.
  3. Skinc: Most lizards have dry and scaly skin, while gecko skin is thin with small bumps on it.
  4. Hearing: Lizards possess external ears, while geckos lack external ear openings but have excellent hearing abilities.
  5. Feet: Geckos have sticky toes that enable them to climb walls, while many lizards do not have this feature.
  6. Vocalization: Geckos can vocalize with chirps and barking noises, while most lizards are silent.
  7. Habitat: Geckos are more adaptable and can survive in various habitats, including desert climates or watery areas, while some lizards have more specific habitat requirements.
  8. Size: Geckos are usually small, less than a foot in length, while lizards can range from 1 inch to 10 feet in size.
  9. Diet: Many lizards are more carnivorous, while geckos are considered insectivorous almost exclusively.

In summary, geckos and lizards have some distinct differences in their physical characteristics, habits, and habitats. Geckos are known for their sticky toes, lack of eyelids, and vocalization abilities, while lizards have more diverse characteristics and habits.

Comparative Table: Lizard vs Gecko

Here is a table highlighting the differences between lizards and geckos:

Characteristic Gecko Lizard
Family Belongs to the family Gekkonidae Belongs to the order Squamata, suborder Lacertilia
Body Structure Typically small to medium-sized with slender bodies and large eyes Varied in size and body shape, can be small to large with diverse eye sizes
Toe Pads Have adhesive toe pads that allow them to climb walls and walk on ceilings Lack adhesive toe pads
Nocturnal/Diurnal Mostly nocturnal Can be diurnal or nocturnal
Physical Characteristics Sticky toe pads, small bumps on the skin Dry and scaly skin, external ears, movable eyelids
Diet Insectivores, eat crickets, moths, and other small insects Can be carnivorous, herbivorous, or omnivorous, depending on the species
Habitat Found in warm climates Can be found in various climates, depending on the species

Geckos and lizards are both reptiles that belong to the order Squamata and suborder Lacertilia, but they have some distinct differences in their physical characteristics, habits, and habitats.