The
smallest species of the genus Phelsuma with a maximum total
length of 71 mm. The coloration is variable and depends on
the mood of the Gecko. When active the primary colour is
white-grey with a black pattern, but can also become very
dark. Like in many members of the Phelsuma lineata-group a
black lateral line is present. The legs are greyish with a
black pattern.
Distribution
Phelsuma kely only occurs near Lac Ampitabe in
eastern Madagascar.
Lac Ampitabe is mainly surrounded by secondary forest.
Phelsuma kely is found on Dracaena sp. trunks of
small diameter (2 cm). The colouration of the gecko is well
adapted to its habitat. It lives sympatric with Phelsuma
quadriocellata parva and Phelsuma guttata, but is less
abundant. In March 2003, temperatures of 27.4° C where
measured during the day and 22.6° C at night. The humidity
was 88% at night and 83% during the day.