Even in the most arid and dark deserts, nature manifests itself with enormous force. A peculiar animal was found in the depths of the Namibian desert that would captivate any lover of bioluminescence. All it takes is a subtle glow from the Moon for this gecko to activate its neon glow.
Being the first vertebrate animal whose skin emits a green light, the little gecko is a 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 that discovered this neon gecko, the lizards’ luminescence is a product of their ability to absorb blue light reflected from the Moon. Once filled with moonglow, the gecko emits a longer wavelength from chemical secretions in its skin.
However, it is the pigment filled with guanine crystals that releases the magical, vibrant blue and green glow from your body. An extraordinary spectacle that is revealed only when the sun sets.
Without a doubt, the Namibian desert shelters a very special being, since until now they are the only reptiles that flash 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 almost transparent skin, the bones that absorb reflective light can shine brightly at night.
This is how we prove that nature never ceases to amaze us. With a little bit of effort in the darkest immensities we can find the light and it is possible that it will be much more incredible than we imagine. Have you already discovered what brightness the Moon awakens in you?