Differences between Gecko and Lizard

Comparison Article

"Lizard" is a broad term for the entire suborder Lacertilia, while "gecko" refers to a specific infraorder, Gekkota, which is a part of that suborder. All geckos are a type of lizard, but many lizards are not geckos. Despite being a type of lizard, geckos possess several distinct features that separate them from other lizard families.

Distinguishing Geckos from Other Lizards

While all geckos are lizards, they belong to the infraorder Gekkota and have developed specific traits not commonly found in other lizard families like iguanas, skinks, or monitor lizards. These differences are most apparent in their anatomy and behavior. For example, geckos are known for their distinct vocalizations, a trait rare among other lizards who are mostly silent or may hiss when threatened.

Comparison Table

Feature	Gecko	Most Other Lizards
Eyelids	Most species lack eyelids and instead have a transparent membrane, which they lick to clean.	Possess movable eyelids.
Toe Pads	Many species have adhesive pads (lamellae) with microscopic bristles (setae) for climbing smooth surfaces.	Typically have clawed feet without adhesive pads.
Vocalization	Many species are vocal, using chirps, clicks, and barks to communicate.	Generally silent, though some may hiss when threatened.
Pupil Shape	Pupils are often vertical slits in nocturnal species, widening in the dark.	Pupils are typically round, especially in diurnal species.
Skin Texture	Skin is covered in fine, granular scales, giving it a soft or velvety texture.	Skin is typically covered in larger, overlapping scales that can be rougher.
Egg Laying	Lay one or two hard-shelled eggs at a time.	Often lay larger clutches of soft or hard-shelled eggs.

Venn diagram comparing Differences between Gecko and Lizard

Anatomy and physiology

The most visible differences between geckos and other lizards are anatomical. A primary distinction is the absence of eyelids in most gecko species. They possess a transparent membrane, or brille, that covers the eyeball and is kept clean by licking. In contrast, the majority of other lizard species have movable eyelids.

Another well-known feature of many geckos is their specialized toe pads, which allow them to adhere to smooth and vertical surfaces. These pads are covered with microscopic, hair-like structures called setae, which use van der Waals forces to create adhesion. While some other lizards are adept climbers, they typically rely on claws rather than adhesive pads.

The skin of geckos also tends to differ from that of other lizards. Geckos generally have thin skin with small, granular scales that do not overlap, giving them a softer appearance. Many other lizards have thicker skin with larger, overlapping scales, which can be keeled or spiny for protection.

Behavior

Geckos are notably more vocal than most other types of lizards. They communicate through a series of chirps, clicks, and in some cases, loud barks. This behavior is used to defend territory or attract mates. Most other lizards are silent or make sounds, such as hissing, primarily when acting defensively.

While activity patterns vary across the thousands of lizard species, many geckos are nocturnal, with eyes adapted for low-light vision. Their vertical pupils can dilate significantly in the dark but also constrict to a narrow slit to protect against bright light. Many other prominent lizard families, such as iguanas and agamids, are diurnal and have round pupils.