Histomorphology Of The Skin Of The Gecko Cyrtodactylus Scaber (Gekkonidae, Reptilia)

Abstract

The histological structures from different dorsal and ventral regions of the skin of the gecko Cyrtodactylus scaber are described. Qualitative differences in the skin structures are recorded. The correlation between the integumental structures and functional specializations are reported. Hinge epidermis, like the scale epidermis, undergoes cyclic changes in its organization and 4 consecutive stages are itemized during one complete cycle. The oberhautchen bears the repeating pattern of ornamentation. The clear layer can be identified by its tendency to curl and crack during preparation. Only males possess pre-anal glands, which have a tubuloacinar structure.