Gecko vs. Iguana — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on January 12, 2024
Geckos are small, nocturnal lizards known for their wall-climbing ability, while iguanas are larger, diurnal lizards, often with distinctive spines and dewlaps.
Difference Between Gecko and Iguana
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Geckos are small to medium-sized lizards belonging to the family Gekkonidae, famous for their unique toe pads that allow them to climb smooth and vertical surfaces. Iguanas, on the other hand, are larger lizards primarily from the family Iguanidae, known for their robust build, including features like a row of spines running down their back and a large dewlap under their chin.
Most gecko species are nocturnal, active during the night, and have excellent night vision. Iguanas are generally diurnal, being active during the day and preferring to bask in the sun.
Geckos are found in warm climates throughout the world and have adapted to a variety of environments, including rainforests, deserts, and even human habitats. Iguanas are native to Central and South America and the Caribbean, typically inhabiting rainforests, rocky areas, and sometimes near water.
In terms of diet, many geckos are insectivores, feeding on insects and other small invertebrates. Iguanas are primarily herbivores, with a diet consisting of leaves, flowers, and fruit, although some species are omnivorous.
Geckos are known for their ability to regenerate their tails, a defense mechanism against predators. While some iguanas can also regenerate their tails, this ability is more limited compared to geckos.
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Comparison Chart
Size
Small to medium
Large
Activity
Nocturnal
Diurnal
Habitat
Diverse, worldwide in warm climates
Central/South America, Caribbean
Diet
Mostly insectivores
Primarily herbivores
Distinctive Features
Toe pads for climbing, can regenerate tails
Spines, dewlap, limited tail regeneration
Compare with Definitions
Gecko
Many geckos are nocturnal with excellent night vision.
At night, the gecko hunted insects by the porch light.
Iguana
Native to Central and South America, iguanas prefer rainforest habitats.
In the rainforest, the iguana climbed trees for leaves.
Gecko
These lizards typically eat insects and can regenerate their tails.
The gecko quickly regrew its tail after an escape from a predator.
Iguana
They are diurnal, often seen sunning themselves during the day.
The iguana was most active during the sunny hours.
Gecko
Geckos are small lizards known for their ability to climb walls.
The gecko easily scaled the kitchen wall.
Iguana
Iguanas have a distinctive dewlap used for thermoregulation and communication.
The iguana's dewlap expanded as it tried to intimidate its rival.
Gecko
Geckos inhabit various warm environments worldwide.
In the tropical forest, geckos were abundant.
Iguana
While primarily herbivores, some iguanas have an omnivorous diet.
The iguana supplemented its diet with insects and small animals.
Gecko
Geckos are known for their vocalizations, unlike most lizards.
The gecko's chirping at night added to the sounds of the wilderness.
Iguana
Iguanas are large, herbivorous lizards with a row of spines.
The iguana basked in the sun on a rock.
Gecko
Geckos are small lizards belonging to the infraorder Gekkota, found in warm climates throughout the world. They range from 1.6 to 60 cm (0.64 to 24 inches).
Iguana
Iguana (, Spanish: [iˈɣwana]) is a genus of herbivorous lizards that are native to tropical areas of Mexico, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. The genus was first described in 1768 by Austrian naturalist Josephus Nicolaus Laurenti in his book Specimen Medicum, Exhibens Synopsin Reptilium Emendatam cum Experimentis circa Venena.
Gecko
Any of various chiefly nocturnal tropical and subtropical lizards of the family Gekkonidae, characteristically having toe pads covered with numerous tiny bristles that adhere to vertical surfaces.
Iguana
Any of various usually large herbivorous lizards of the subfamily Iguaninae, often having a dorsal crest and found chiefly in tropical America.
Gecko
Any lizard of the family Gekkonidae. They are small, carnivorous, mostly nocturnal animals with large eyes and adhesive toes enabling them to climb on vertical and upside-down surfaces.
Iguana
A green iguana (Iguana iguana), a large tropical American lizard often kept as a pet.
Gecko
(rare) To move in the manner of a gecko; to attach to a vertical or upside-down surface.
Iguana
(zoology) Any member of the genus Iguana.
Gecko
Any lizard of the family Geckonidæ. The geckoes are small, carnivorous, mostly nocturnal animals with large eyes and vertical, elliptical pupils. Their toes are generally expanded, and furnished with adhesive disks, by which they can run over walls and ceilings. They are numerous in warm countries, and a few species are found in Europe and the United States. See Wall gecko, Fanfoot.
Iguana
Colloquially, in America and the Pacific, any of several members of the lizard family Iguanidae.
Gecko
Any of various small chiefly tropical and usually nocturnal insectivorous terrestrial lizards typically with immovable eyelids; completely harmless
Iguana
Colloquially, in Africa, any large member of the genus Varanus, especially the aquatic Nile monitor (see leguan).
Iguana
Any member of the genus Varanus (see goanna).
Iguana
Any species of the genus Iguana, a genus of large American lizards of the family Iguanidæ. They are arboreal in their habits, usually green in color, and feed chiefly upon fruits.
Iguana
Large herbivorous tropical American arboreal lizards with a spiny crest along the back; used as human food in Central America and South America
Common Curiosities
How big can iguanas get?
Some iguana species can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in length, including their tail.
Are iguanas aggressive?
Iguanas can be territorial and may become aggressive, especially during mating season.
Do geckos make any sounds?
Yes, some gecko species are known to chirp or bark, especially at night.
Do geckos have good eyesight?
Geckos generally have excellent night vision but their day vision varies by species.
How long do geckos live?
The lifespan of a gecko varies by species but can range from 5 to 10 years in captivity.
Can iguanas swim?
Yes, many iguana species are good swimmers and often live near water.
What do geckos eat?
Geckos mainly eat insects like crickets and mealworms.
Can geckos and iguanas be kept as pets?
Yes, both can be kept as pets, but they have different care requirements.
Can geckos lose their tails?
Yes, geckos can drop their tails as a defense mechanism.
What kind of habitat do iguanas need in captivity?
Iguanas need a large enclosure with access to heat, UV light, and vegetation.
Do iguanas hibernate?
Iguanas do not hibernate but may become less active in cooler temperatures.
Are geckos venomous?
No, geckos are not venomous.
How do geckos stick to walls?
Geckos have specialized toe pads that allow them to adhere to surfaces.
What is the dewlap on an iguana used for?
The dewlap is used for communication, display, and thermoregulation.
What should I feed my pet iguana?
Pet iguanas should be fed a diet of leafy greens, vegetables, and fruits.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
