About Phelsuma standingi Methuen & Hewitt, 1913
Phelsuma standingi, also called Standing's day gecko, is one of the largest living species of day geckos. It reaches a maximum total length (including tail) of 20 to 25.4 cm (8 to 10 inches), though larger individuals may occur. Its body color varies considerably based on light intensity, and can range from brownish grey to bright green or turquoise, with grey to blue reticulated markings across its body and head. The head and tail are often turquoise. Hatchlings have a yellowish green head and distinct light bands and bars on their backs. This species is sexually dimorphic. Males have very pronounced preanal pores in the cloacal area, plus a bulge in the hemipenis region. Most females have well-developed endolymphatic chalk sacs on each side of the neck, while these sacs are usually barely visible in males. These sacs store calcium needed to form egg shells. Phelsuma standingi is found only in the arid southwest of Madagascar, specifically in the area around Andranolaho and Sakaraha, and within Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park. Its habitat is the region's unique thorn forest vegetation. In this habitat, daytime temperatures never drop below 20 °C (68 °F), and can reach as high as 40 °C (104 °F) in shade throughout the year. Night temperatures in July and August can drop to 13 °C (55 °F). This gecko is oviparous. At a constant temperature of 28 °C (82 °F), eggs hatch after approximately 60 to 70 days. Newly hatched juveniles measure 80 mm, and reach sexual maturity after one year. When properly cared for in captivity, Standing's day geckos can live 15 to 20 years.
