Diplodactylus

Diplodactylus is a genus of geckos, commonly known as western stone geckos or simply stone geckos, found in Australia. These geckos are characterized by their relatively stout bodies, short, blunt heads, and often flattened appearance, which helps them to seek shelter in crevices and under rocks. Their skin is typically rough and granular, providing excellent camouflage against rocky and arid environments. Diplodactylus geckos are nocturnal, emerging at dusk to forage for insects and other small invertebrates. They are well-adapted to survive in harsh, dry conditions, often inhabiting deserts and semi-arid regions across much of the Australian continent. Reproduction in Diplodactylus geckos usually involves the laying of clutches of one or two leathery eggs, which are incubated in sheltered locations. The genus includes several species, each with slightly varying geographical distributions and physical characteristics, but all sharing the common adaptations of a stone-dwelling lifestyle. Their name, Diplodactylus, refers to their double digits, a characteristic shared by many gecko species.