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Movement patterns and habitat selection of the giant day gecko (Phelsuma madagascariensis grandis) in the Masoala rainforest exhibit, Zurich Zoo

Authors:
Thomas C. Wanger at Westlake University
Thomas C. Wanger
Iris Kormann née Motzke
Iris Kormann née Motzke
Samuel Furrer at Haus der Museen & Naturmuseum Olten
Samuel Furrer
  • Haus der Museen & Naturmuseum Olten
Bernd Gruber at University of Canberra
Bernd Gruber
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Abstract and Figures

In 2003, Zurich Zoo opened the Masoala exhibit to help preserving the endemic flora and fauna of Madagascar and to raise public awareness of the threats to this biodiversity hotspot. The enclosure houses more than 45 animal taxa and over 35000 individual plants on almost 11 000 m2. After three years of establishment of food webs and demographic changes in the community, there is an urgent demand for animal population monitoring. Therefore, this paper aims (i) to determine how increasing gecko density affects gecko movement patterns in the exhibit and (ii) to assess habitat selection in 12 heterogeneous areas within the exhibit, differing in various environmental parameters (e.g., plant species, sun hours, and food sources). In contrast to an earlier study on this gecko population, our results on gecko movement patterns show that moved distances are evenly distributed amongst distances between 0 to 70 m. Moreover, geckos showed strong habitat preferences for certain areas; plants like Ravenala madagascariensis and Pandanus spp. as well as ventilation tubes and cages were most frequently used as perch sites. When discussed in the framework of the ideal free distribution theory, our results suggest that gecko movement patterns are strongly affected by increasing gecko density. © 2009 Deutsche Gesellschaft für Herpetologie und Terrarienkunde e.V. (DGHT).
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All content in this area was uploaded by Bernd Gruber on Dec 21, 2015
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
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Phelsuma madagascariensis grandis

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 



Ravenala mada-
gascariensis Pandanus 
      


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      
       
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
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      

      
     

     


     

    


    






       
   

    


 
   
      



      

     
       


Fuci-
fer pardalis

Phelsuma madagascariensis
grandis      
 
  

      
      
  

     
       
       
     


     
    





Phel-
suma madagascariensis grandis, 
       
 



     

     
       
 
      
      


   
       

   



 

  
   


Phelsuma mada-
gascariensis grandis    
 Phelsuma grandis   
    

      
  Phelsuma madagascariensis
     
 Phelsuma madagas-
cariensis grandis .


     


     
    





 
    

      
       
      



      
       
     





   






     
       


 
    
    

  Coua cristata
        
  
 



     
     


       




      


rs
P  n    


           
 

       






 
       
            


         
Ravenala madagascariensisFicus altissimaPandanusBismar-
ckia Daibergia nigrescensMusaDracaena marginata

    








  U U   P  
 

    
      
     
      

       
dfP

        



      
      
     




dfP
   

Pandanus   Ravenala madagas-
cariensis     
     



     
    











       

  
      

      
       
       

n 
n 








   



      

   
        
 
 














       







       
 
 
     






   










   
    


     

      
      


   

      
  


   
 
  


    


      
    
     
  
Ravenala madagascariensis,Panda-
nus , Bismarckia  Musa

     
      
   
 
  


     

      
  
Dracaena marginataDypsis





       

   

   
























     
  




  

        
     
Phelsuma madagas-
cariensis grandis     
   

        





        

Fur-
cifer pardalis   

         
     
     




     
     
Gehyra variegata

      

Phelsuma     




 
Pandanus

 







     

 



     
      
 Phelsuma    

     
      
      
 



     

       
     

   
 



  
Eulemur fulvus albifrons


 
      
Eulemur fulvus albifrons

     


Gekkoni-
dae, Phelsuma madagascariensis grandis





      
 
    


       


 
           

  
     
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... These are powerful systems that can be used for tracking individuals over long periods of time. In fact, recent work has followed the movement distances and microhabitat use of Phelsuma grandis (Fig. 8C) across 12 areas in the rainforest exhibit (Wanger et al. 2009). The two most common species of plants visited by individual geckos are Pandanus sp. (Fig. 8C) and Ravenala madagascariensis (Wanger et al. 2009). ...
... In fact, recent work has followed the movement distances and microhabitat use of Phelsuma grandis (Fig. 8C) across 12 areas in the rainforest exhibit (Wanger et al. 2009). The two most common species of plants visited by individual geckos are Pandanus sp. (Fig. 8C) and Ravenala madagascariensis (Wanger et al. 2009). By understanding how and why geckos use the substrates that they do, we can begin to understand how the adhesive apparatus may be connected with habitat selection. ...
The Ecomechanics of Gecko Adhesion: Natural Surface Topography, Evolution, and Biomimetics
Article
  • Jul 2019
  • INTEGR COMP BIOL
The study of gecko adhesion is necessarily interdisciplinary due to the hierarchical nature of the adhesive system and the complexity of interactions between the animals and their habitats. In nature, geckos move on a wide range of surfaces including soft sand dunes, trees, and rocks, but much of the research over the past two decades has focused on their adhesive performance on artificial surfaces. Exploring the complex interactions between geckos and their natural habitats will reveal aspects of the adhesive system that can be applied to biomimetic research, such as the factors that facilitate movement on dirty and rough surfaces with varying microtopography. Additionally, contrasting suites of constraints and topographies are found on rocks and plants, likely driving differences in locomotion and morphology. Our overarching goals are to bring to light several aspects of ecology that are important for gecko-habitat interactions, and to propose a framework for how they can inspire material scientists and functional ecologists. We also present new data on surface roughness and topography of a variety of surfaces, and adhesive performance of Phelsuma geckos on surfaces of varying roughness. We address the following key questions: (1) why and how should ecology be incorporated into the study of gecko adhesion? (2) What topographical features of rocks and plants likely drive adhesive performance? (3) How can ecological studies inform material science research? Recent advances in surface replication techniques that eliminate confounding factors among surface types facilitate the ability to address some of these questions. We pinpoint gaps in our understanding and identify key initiatives that should be adopted as we move forward. Most importantly, fine details of locomotor microhabitat use of both diurnal and nocturnal geckos are needed.
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... P. grandis est un grand gecko dont la longueur totale peut atteindre 30 cm (GLAW & VENCES, 2007). Il est diurne, arboricole et territorial (MCKEOWN, 1993 ;WANGER et al., 2009). À Madagascar, la période de reproduction de P. grandis s'étend de la fin novembre jusqu'au mois de mai (GLAW & VENCES, 2007). ...
Régime alimentaire du grand gecko vert de Madagascar, Phelsuma grandis Gray, 1870 sur l'île de La Réunion (Squamata : Gekkonidae)
Article
Full-text available
  • Jan 2013
Phelsuma grandis Gray, 1870 est un gecko introduit sur l'île de La Réunion. Le régime alimentaire de ce reptile, considéré comme invasif, a été étudié afin d'évaluer la menace qu'il pourrait représenter pour la faune indigène. Le contenu stomacal de 171 individus a été analysé. À La Réunion, P. grandis se nourrit principalement d'Arthropodes. Les ressources végétales occupent également une part non négligeable de son alimentation et il consomme régulièrement d'autres espèces de geckos. P. grandis manifeste un comportement alimentaire de type opportuniste, à large spectre de proies. Ces résultats indiquent que P. grandis pourrait avoir des incidences négatives importantes sur la faune locale, notamment sur l'entomofaune et l'herpétofaune par prédation ou par compétition. Phelsuma grandis Gray, 1870 is an introduced invasive gecko at Reunion Island. The aim of the present study was to assess its diet in order to evaluate the threat it could represent for native fauna. Stomach contents of 171 individuals were analyzed. At Reunion Island, P. grandis feeds mostly on arthropods and, to a lesser extent, plant materials. P. grandis feeds also, and regularly, on other gecko species. P. grandis shows an opportunistic feeding behavior with a broad spectrum of prey. These outcomes indicate that P. grandis may have significant negative impacts on the local wildlife, including entomofauna and herpetofauna, through predation or competition.
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Habitat preferences and activity patterns of Furcifer pardalis (CUVIER, 1829) in the Masoala Rain Forest Hall of the Zurich Zoo
Article
Full-text available
  • Aug 2008
The habitat preferences and activity patterns of panther chameleons, Furcifer pardalis (CUVIER, 1829) living in the Masoala Rain Forest Hall of the Zurich Zoo were investigated by means of radiotelemetry. Twelve animals were monitored over periods of up to 32 days. The animals exhibited a significant preference for the upper third, or crown stratum, of the plants. The chameleons were furthermore mostly encountered in the peripheral areas of their trees. Migratory patterns of male specimens in particular followed a largely linear course from the starting point. Distinctions could be made between specimens with a high degree of home range fidelity and more explorative individuals, which differed clearly with regard to the distances they moved away from their respective starting points. © 2008 Deutsche Gesellschaft für Herpetologie und Terrarienkundee. V.(DGHT).
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The use of screw pines ( Pandanus spp.) by amphibians and reptiles in Madagascar
Article
Full-text available
  • Dec 2002
The importance of plant-held water bodies (phytotelmata) to amphibians and reptiles has been recognised in many tropical environments. However, water-holding plants from Madagascar have not been investigated in this regard. I surveyed screw pine (Pandanus) plants at two localities in southeastern Madagascar to document usage of these micro-aquatic habitats by amphibians and reptiles. Twenty species (nine frogs, six geckoes, four snakes, and one skink) were found in these plants (32% of the total estimated herpetofauna of the area). At least five species are obligate Pandanus-dwellers, while others facultatively used the water-filled leaf axils of these plants. A literature review indicates that at least twenty-one additional species in Madagascar are commonly or exclusively found in Pandanus plants. This information demonstrates the importance of these unique microhabitats to Madagascar's poorly known and highly endemic herpetofauna.
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First experiences with free-ranging giant day geckos (Phelsuma madagascariensis grandis, Gray 1870) in the Masoala Rainforest Exhibit in Zurich Zoo, Switzerland
Article
Full-text available
  • Sep 2006
  • ZOO BIOL
Sixty giant day geckos (Phelsuma madagascariensis grandis) have been introduced into the Masoala rainforest exhibit of Zurich Zoo. Eighteen geckos were monitored during a 3-month study using the telemetry method. In general, the geckos were able to adapt well under these semi-natural conditions of the exhibit. The geckos accessed to nearly all locations in the exhibit; some of the animals remained stationary, whereas others covered dozens of meters within a week. They preferred four species of plants as well as the artificial structures supporting the walls and roof of the exhibit, and displayed natural behaviors. Animals were observed feeding on all kind of arthropods and nectar substances, and also on food items dropped from feeding stations for other species. Deliberate feeding targeted at the geckos was finally reduced to a calcium-rich squash along the visitor's main path. Reproduction was observed frequently within the exhibit. These findings suggest that the geckos will be able to build up a self-sustaining population and contribute to a nearly-authentic experience for zoo visitors. Zoo Biol 0:1–7, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
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Linking habitat structure and orientation in an arboreal species Gehyra variegata (Gekkonidae)
Article
Full-text available
  • Nov 2004
  • OIKOS
Understanding how organisms move through landscapes is important for predicting the effects of landscape structure on the population dynamics and spatial distribution of organisms. Despite the accepted importance, the ability to orientate when moving is a poorly studied phenomenon. In this study we report on a translocation experiment in which we used fluorescent powder to study the ability of the arboreal gecko Gehyra variegata to orientate successfully between trees. The relocation experiment demonstrated the ability of translocated geckos to return to the tree of initial capture. Further, we investigated the set of rules geckos employ, when travelling through their structured habitat. Computer simulations relating capture-mark-recapture data to structural components of the habitat revealed that movement rules taking vision into account showed the best fit to the empirical data. The movement rule: “move randomly to one of the three next neighbouring trees that are visible” described the observed movement best. This movement rule connects all trees in the habitat and lowers the predation risk during movement.
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How to monitor elusive lizards: Comparison of capture-recapture methods on giant day geckos (Gekkonidae, Phelsuma madagascariensis grandis) in the Masoala rainforest exhibit, Zurich Zoo
Article
Full-text available
  • Mar 2008
Rapid and reliable estimation of population size is needed for the efficient monitoring of animal populations of conservation concern. Unfortunately, technical advances in this area have not been paralleled in uptake in conservation, which may be due to difficulties in implementation or the lack of general guidelines for application. Here we tested five different methods used to estimate population size [capture–mark–recapture (CMR), finite-mixture models, model averaging of finite-mixture models, accumulation curve methods (ACM), and the line transect method (LT)] using extensive capture–recapture data of the giant day gecko (Gekkonidae, Phelsuma madagascariensis grandis, Gray 1870) at the Masoala rainforest exhibit, Zurich Zoo. When the complete data were analyzed [30 sessions (and 27 sessions for the LT)], all methods except the LT produced similar estimates of population size. The simple ACM gave a small coefficient of variation (CV), but did not cover the most likely value of population size at moderate sampling effort. Nevertheless, the ACM was the only method that showed a reasonable convergence when subsets of data were used. CMR and Pledger models included the reference value in their confidence intervals (CI) after 25 and 30 sessions, respectively. Although model averaging did slightly improve the estimate, the CV was still high for the full dataset. Our method of using subsets of data to test the robustness of estimates is simple to apply and could be adopted more widely in such analyzes to evaluate sensitivity to method of evaluation. In conclusion, simple accumulation methods showed similar efficiency to more complex statistical models, and are likely to be sufficiently precise for most conservation monitoring purposes.
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The Conservation Biology of a Specialist and a Generalist Gecko in the Fragmented Landscape of the Western Australian Wheatbelt
Chapter
  • Jan 1996
Despite the recent attention that has been given to extinctions (Fiedler & Ahouse 1992, Burgman et al. 1993, Lawton & May 1995), very little is known about the extinction process itself, primarily because determining causality afterwards is extremely difficult. Caughley (1994) recognised two paradigms in the study of extinction processes: extinction driven by agents external to the population in question (declining-population paradigm), and extinction resulting from stochastic processes in small populations (small-population paradigm).
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Feeding enrichment by self‐operated food boxes for white‐fronted lemurs (Eulemur fulvus albifrons) in the Masoala exhibit of the Zurich Zoo
Article
  • Mar 2006
  • ZOO BIOL
In the new Masoala exhibit of the Zurich Zoo four self-operated food boxes were installed to encourage arboreal behavior and higher activity levels, and to increase the attractiveness to visitors of a group of three white-fronted lemurs (Eulemur fulvus albifrons) and one Alaotran gentle lemur (Hapalemur griseus alaotrensis). Data obtained by direct observations with and without food boxes present were compared. In addition, visitors were surveyed to investigate attractiveness of the lemurs. Overall activity and locomotor behavior increased due to food box presentation. Furthermore, the visitor survey documented that the lemurs were spotted more often in trees when the food boxes were present. Because behavior patterns of the subjects approached natural levels with food boxes, the presentation of self-operated food boxes seems a valuable tool to improve the captive environment of lemurs. Zoo Biol 0:1–10, 2005. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
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Species Review of Amphibian Extinction Risks in Madagascar: Conclusions from the Global Amphibian Assessment
Article
We assessed the extinction risks of Malagasy amphibians by evaluating their distribution, occurrence in protected areas, population trends, habitat quality, and prevalence in commercial trade. We estimated and mapped the distribution of each of the 220 described Malagasy species and applied, for the first time, the IUCN Red List categories and criteria to all species described at the time of the assessment. Nine species were categorized as critically endangered, 21 as endangered, and 25 as vulnerable. The most threatened species occur on the High Plateau and/or have been subjected to overcollection for the pet trade, but restricted extent of occurrence and ongoing habitat destruction were identified as the most important factors influencing extinction threats. The two areas with the majority of threatened species were the northern Tsaratanana-Marojejy-Masoala highlands and the southeastern Anosy Mountains. The current system of protected areas includes 82% of the threatened amphibian species. Of the critically endangered species, 6 did not occur in any protected area. For conservation of these species we recommend the creation of a reserve for the species of the Mantella aurantiaca group, the inclusion of two Scaphiophryne species in the Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species Appendix II, and the suspension of commercial collecting for Mantella cowani. Field surveys during the last 15 years reveal no pervasive extinction of Malagasy amphibians resulting from disease or other agents, as has been reported in some other areas of the world.
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On Territorial Behavior and Other Factors Influencing Habitat Distribution of Birds
Article
  • Mar 1969
This example is provided so that non-theorists may see actual applications of the theory previously described. The Dickcissel sex ratio is employed as an indirect index of suitability. A sex ratio index was found to be correlated positively with density. This is consistent with the hypothesis that territorial behavior in the males of this species limits their density. This study provides a valid example of how the problem can be approached and offers a first step in the eventual identification of the role of territorial behavior in the habitat distribution of a common species.
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