New species of animal discovered in Thai cave
Scientists have discovered a new species of gecko inside a cave on Khao Nam Phu hill in Thailand.
The Khao Nam Phu bent-toed gecko, a scaly creature with large golden eyes and slender limbs, was first found by researchers in 2003.
The gecko, which is about 7 inches long, has clawed toes, spiky spurs near its tail, and dark brown markings on its back. It was found living inside and around the cave, emerging at night to hunt for food.
They are brown in colour with black and light brown stretches across the back.
The species is named after the area where it was discovered, the Khao Nam Phu hill in Saraburi Province, about 90 miles northeast of Bangkok.
The research team, including Thai and international scientists, published their findings on September 19. The research team included Montri Sumontha, Nonn Panitvong, Kirati Kunya, Nattasuda Donbundit, Winai Suthanthangjai, Maneerat Suthanthangjai, Eakarit Phanamphon and Olivier S. G. Pauwels.
Alongside the Khao Nam Phu gecko, researchers also found another new species, the Erawan bent-toed gecko. Both discoveries add to the growing list of unique wildlife hidden in Thailand’s caves.
