Even in the most arid and dark deserts, nature manifests itself with enormous force. In the depths of the Namibian desert, a peculiar animal was found that would captivate any lover of bioluminescence. A subtle glow from the Moon is all it takes for this gecko to activate its neon glow.
As the first vertebrate animal whose skin emits a green light, the little gecko is quite the sensation in the animal world. The history of biology once again falls at the feet of evolution and introduces the world to this precious animal.
The neon gecko that connects with the Moon
According to the team of scientists who discovered this neon gecko, the lizards’ luminescence is the product of their ability to absorb blue light reflected from the Moon. Once filled with lunar glow, the gecko emits a longer wavelength from the chemical secretions on its skin.
However, it is the crystal-filled pigment of guanine that releases the magical, vibrant blue and green glow from her body. An extraordinary spectacle that is revealed only when the sun goes down.
Without a doubt, the Namibian desert shelters a very special being, since up to now they are the only reptiles that flash an intense neon. Chameleons also have a special glow, but their skin is too thick to reveal the glow. Geckos, on the other hand, have wonderful evolutionary luck. Thanks to their nearly transparent skin, the bones that absorb reflective light can glow brightly at night.
This is how we verify that nature never ceases to amaze us. With a little attention in the darkest immensities we can find the light and it is possible that this is much more incredible than we imagine. Have you already discovered what brightness the Moon awakens in you?
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