Difference between Lizards and Geckos
Lizards and geckos are both reptiles that have overlapping scales and small pads on their feet that allow them to cling to walls. They belong to the suborder of Lacertilla, which is a category of the class Reptilia.
What are Lizards?
Lizards are reptiles that generally have dry and scaly skin. They have 4 legs, long tails, and clawed feet. Although not true for all lizards, the tails are usually weak and can easily be broken off with just a small tug. Unfortunately for them, these tails are pretty important in their movement and balance.
What are Geckos?
Geckos are actually a type of lizard that belongs to the Gekkonidae family. These creatures, whose size can range from 1.6cm to 60cm, can only be seen in places with warm climates. They are one of the few lizard species that can vocalize, which is actually what inspired their name. Most geckos have a transparent membrane instead of eyelids.
Since geckos are a type of lizard, we can safely say that all geckos are lizards but not all lizards are geckos. Geckos are not venomous while some varieties of lizards are. Both lizards and geckos, except Komodo dragons, can be kept as pets since they are not harmful to humans.
A brief summary:
- Both lizards and geckos belong to the suborder of Lacertilla, which is a category of the class Reptilia
- Lizards are found all over the world while geckos are found only in places with warm climate
- A gecko is a type of lizard that belongs to the Gekkonidae family
- All geckos are lizards but not all lizards are geckos
- Both geckos and lizards can be kept as pets