Tropiocolotes nattereri (Reptilia: Gekkonidae): comments on validity, variation and distribution

Abstract The Tropiocolotes species of Israel and Sinai is T. nattereri and not T. steudneri; apparently T. nattereri is the only species of the genus in Israel; earlier reports that it occurs in Africa are refuted. Errors in the literature derived from reliance on a single allometric character. Sexual dimorphism is moderate but the calcium sacs are helpful for discriminating the sexes. Geographical variation in T. nattereri in Israel and Sinai seems continuous and tends to increase the difference from T. steudneri where the ranges of the two approach each other. Biological data are briefly reviewed.

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