There are over 1,500 species of gecko found all across the world. Most people think that all lizards are related to geckos, but this is not the case. Geckos are actually part of a much larger group of reptiles called squamates, which also includes snakes and skinks.
While there are many similarities between geckos and other lizards, there are also some important differences.
There’s no denying that geckos are some of the most popular lizards around. But are they actually lizards? The answer may surprise you.
Geckos are indeed lizards. In fact, they’re classified in the same family as iguanas and other popular lizard pets. Geckos are unique, however, in that they have evolved to have adhesive toe pads that allow them to stick to surfaces and climb vertical walls with ease.
While all geckos are lizards, not all lizards are geckos. There are over 6,000 species of lizard in the world, and only 1,500 or so of those are classified as geckos. So while all geckos are indeed lizards, not all lizards can lay claim to being a gecko!

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Why is a Gecko Not a Lizard?
There are over 6,000 species of lizards found on every continent except Antarctica, but not all of them are geckos. So, what separates a gecko from other lizards? For starters, geckos have toes that are covered with adhesive pads.
This allows them to climb walls and even walk upside down! Other lizards have dry scales which provide some traction, but not the same level of grip as a gecko’s toe pads. Geckos also tend to be smaller than other lizards and have a more streamlined body which helps them move quickly and efficiently.
Lastly, most geckos can make chirping sounds by rubbing their ribs together (similar to crickets). So, while all geckos are technically lizards, not all lizards are geckos!
Is a Gecko a Species of Lizard?
A gecko is a species of lizard that is found in warm climates all over the world. They are small to medium-sized lizards with flattened bodies and long tails. Geckos are known for their ability to climb vertical surfaces and to stick to ceilings.
Some gecko species can make chirping sounds by rubbing their scales together.
Geckos are mostly insectivores, but some larger species will also eat small vertebrates such as lizards and snakes. Geckos use their sticky toe pads to help them catch prey items.
Most gecko species are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. During the day, they often rest in sheltered places such as underneath rocks or inside trees.
There are over 1,500 different gecko species in the world, making them one of the most diverse groups of lizards.
Geckos come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, which can help them blend in with their surroundings and avoid predators. Some popular pet gecko species include leopard geckos, African Fat-tailed geckos, and Tokay geckos.
Is a Gecko a Reptile Or Lizard?
Lizards and reptiles are often confused for one another, but there are some key differences between the two. For starters, all lizards are reptiles, but not all reptiles are lizards. Lizards belong to the reptile family Squamata, which includes snakes, while reptiles encompass a much larger group that includes turtles, crocodiles, and insects.
So what sets lizards apart from other reptiles?
For one thing, lizards have external ear openings whereas most other reptiles do not. They also typically have four legs (though some species have none or two), and their limbs are placed underneath their body rather than out to the side as in most other reptiles.
Additionally, lizards can detach their tails if necessary (a process known as autotomy), which allows them to escape predators – something that most other reptiles cannot do.
So now you know – geckos are definitely lizards!
Is a Gecko a Lizard Or a Salamander?
There is some debate over whether geckos are classified as lizards or salamanders, as they share characteristics of both groups. Geckos are small to medium-sized reptiles with soft skin and short legs. They have long tails and large eyes, and many species can climb walls and ceilings.
Most geckos are nocturnal creatures that live in warm climates, such as the tropics.
As lizards, geckos are members of the Squamata order which also includes snakes. Geckos are further classified into the suborder Sauria which contains all lizards except for snakes.
The main difference between lizards and salamanders is that salamanders typically have moist skin while lizard skin is dry. Salamanders also tend to have shorter limbs and a more slender build than lizards.
While there are some similarities between geckos and salamanders, most experts believe that geckos should be classified as lizards due to their dry skin and squat build.
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Conclusion
Yes, geckos are lizards. Geckos are a type of lizard that is found in warm climates all over the world. There are more than 1,000 species of gecko, and they come in a variety of colors and patterns.
Geckos are known for their ability to climb walls and ceilings, and many people keep them as pets.