A RemarkableFind in Angola's Reptilian Realm

In a thrilling turn of events, a tan-brown lizard was spotted darting across sun-warmed rocks in coastal Angola, marking its entry into the scientific records as one of three newly discovered day gecko species that had never been formally identified before!

Meet the New Members of the Gecko Family

The trio, including the stunningly large-spotted Namib day gecko (*Rhoptropus megocellus*), along with *R. minimus* and *R. crypticus*, emerged from an extensive eight-year field campaign in the arid southwest of Namibia's neighboring country, Angola. This revelation is based on the hard work of researchers led by Javier Lobón-Rovira from the Universidade do Porto, who teamed up with scientists from various institutions to compile these groundbreaking findings.

Angola: A Hidden Gem for Gecko Diversity

Angola is stepping into the spotlight as one of Mainland Africa's most gecko-rich regions. Lobón-Rovira noted that improved access and scientific surveys have unveiled a surge in reptilian diversity, shining a light on several hotspots of unique species in the south.

The Scrutiny Behind the Discovery

From 2018 to early 2025, the research team collected 14 museum vouchers and tissue samples from previously unidentified lizard populations. By meticulously examining body measurements, scale counts, and color patterns without relying on just one trait, they clearly distinguished these new species. Genetic analyses revealed that these geckos formed distinct genetic groups, reinforcing their unique classifications.

Spotlight on the Large-Spotted Gecko

*Rhoptropus megocellus* captivates with its robust physique and eye-like dark spots that march elegantly down its back, with a collar-like band forming at the neck. This species is defined by its specialized tail scales and unique nasal features, differentiating it from other local contenders.

Rock Stars of Their Habitat

These geckos have a passion for rock—preferring to dwell on large, flat granite boulders where they can scuttle quickly to escape predators. Their lifestyle is intricately linked to these rocky terrains, which influence their movements and body structures. The camouflage of the large-spotted gecko, with its gray-brown coloration and orange patterns, helps it blend seamlessly with the granite during the daylight hours.

Understanding Their Genetic Landscape

To untangle the identity of these geckos, researchers examined mitochondrial and nuclear DNA, finding significant genetic disparities among similar species. This genetic fingerprinting confirmed the large-spotted gecko's distinctiveness and its evolutionary divergence from its relatives.

Introducing Two New Companions

Joining *R. megocellus* are two compact companions: *R. minimus*, with its speckled granitic back and a robust build, and *R. crypticus*, which resides on steep, rocky faces and boasts a distinctive tail-scale configuration.

The Importance of Museum Specimens

The specimens collected are crucial not only for confirming these new species but also for future research, enabling scientists to revisit and refine identifications as methods advance.

A Biodiversity Haven

Angola's Namibe region is a mosaic of diverse habitats that fosters unique species, offering a playground for ongoing scientific exploration and discovery. Each new identification underscores the necessity of conservation efforts, particularly as these geckos are specialized to certain habitats that might face threats from human activity.

What Lies Ahead?

Expect more exciting updates as researchers delve into the relationships between different *Rhoptropus* lineages and continue revisiting Angolan records. With each discovery, we uncover more stories hidden within Angola's rocks, proving that the gecko family still has many secrets left to share!

The details of this remarkable study have been published in Ecology and Evolution, highlighting the importance of continued exploration and the vital role these small reptiles play in biodiversity.