Australian Gecko: History, Facts, Size, Habitat, Classification & Much More

By Tyler Swan

Reptiles Name is excited to dive into the fascinating world of Australian Geckos. These small, lizard-like creatures have a rich history and offer many intriguing facts for us to explore. From their size and habitat to their classification, there is so much to learn about these reptiles.

Australian Geckos are a diverse group of reptiles that have been around for millions of years. They have adapted well to the harsh Australian climate and can be found in various regions across the country. These reptiles come in different sizes, ranging from a few centimeters to around 30 centimeters in length. Their small size allows them to easily maneuver through narrow spaces and climb walls with their adhesive toe pads.

When it comes to habitat, Australian Geckos are quite versatile. They can be found in a range of environments, including deserts, rainforests, and grasslands. These reptiles are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night when they hunt for insects and other small prey. During the day, they seek shelter in tree hollows, rock crevices, or even human-made structures.

In terms of classification, Australian Geckos belong to the family Gekkonidae. Within this family, there are numerous species, each with its own unique characteristics. These reptiles are known for their ability to vocalize using chirping or barking sounds, which they use to communicate with other geckos.

With its diverse species, unique characteristics, and fascinating behaviors, the Australian Gecko is a captivating reptile. Through our blog, Reptiles Name, we aim to delve deeper into the history, facts, size, habitat, and classification of these intriguing creatures. Stay tuned as we uncover the wonders of Australian Geckos and expand our knowledge of the reptile world.

Please note that we already have an in-depth article on 155+ Reptiles Name. Explore our website to learn more about these incredible creatures.

History of Australian Gecko

The Australian Gecko is a reptile native to Australia, but it has not always been around. It is believed that the ancestors of geckos first appeared around 100 million years ago, during the time of the dinosaurs. These early geckos were quite different from the ones we see today. They had different body shapes, habits, and lived in different parts of the world.

Over time, the gecko evolved and adapted to its surroundings. They developed unique features like their sticky toes, which allow them to climb walls and even walk on ceilings. These toes are covered in millions of tiny hairs called setae, which create a strong adhesive force.

The Australian Gecko is also known for its ability to shed its tail. If a predator grabs onto its tail, the gecko can detach it and escape to safety. The tail will then regrow over time, but it may not be as long or as colorful as the original one. This is a fascinating adaptation that helps the gecko survive in its environment.

Today, Australia is home to many different species of geckos. They can be found in a variety of habitats, from rainforests to deserts. Some are brightly colored, while others are more camouflaged. They play an important role in their ecosystems by eating insects and other small creatures.

The Australian Gecko is a remarkable reptile with amazing adaptations. Its ancestors have been around for millions of years, evolving and changing to survive. By studying and understanding these fascinating creatures, we can continue to appreciate and protect them for generations to come.

Importance of Australian Gecko

The Australian Gecko reptile is a very important creature for the ecosystem. They play a crucial role in controlling the population of insects and pests. These little reptiles have a big appetite for bugs, such as mosquitoes, flies, and spiders. By eating these pests, geckos help to keep their numbers in balance, preventing the spread of diseases and reducing the damage caused to crops, gardens, and homes.

Furthermore, Australian Geckos also serve as a valuable food source for birds of prey, snakes, and other larger predators. They are an essential part of the food chain and contribute to the overall biodiversity of their habitat. Without geckos, the balance of the ecosystem would be disrupted, leading to an overpopulation of insects and an imbalance among other species.

In addition to their ecological importance, Australian Geckos are also fascinating creatures to observe and study. Scientists can learn a lot about their behavior, reproduction, and adaptation to different environments. Researching and understanding these reptiles can contribute to our knowledge of the natural world and help us make informed decisions about conservation measures to protect their habitats and ensure their survival for future generations.

Amazing Facts About Australian Gecko

1. Australian geckos are small reptiles that belong to the lizard family.
2. They have a unique adaptation of very large eyes, which help them see in low-light environments.
3. Australian geckos have specialized toe pads that allow them to climb and stick to various surfaces, including walls and ceilings.
4. There are around 180 different species of geckos found in Australia, each with its own distinct characteristics.
5. These reptiles come in a variety of colors, such as brown, grey, green, and even vibrant shades like blue.
6. Australian geckos are mainly found in the northern parts of the country, including Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia.
7. Geckos are nocturnal animals, meaning they are most active during the night time.
8. Their diet consists of insects, spiders, and small invertebrates which they catch using their quick reflexes and sticky tongues.
9. Australian geckos are oviparous, which means they lay eggs rather than giving birth to live young.
10. The gecko eggs are usually laid in protected areas like crevices or under loose bark, and the parents do not provide any care to the eggs after laying them.
11. Baby geckos, also known as hatchlings, can be quite small and fragile, measuring only a few centimeters in length.
12. Australian geckos have a unique ability called autotomy, where they can detach their tails when threatened by predators. The lost tail eventually grows back, though it may vary in appearance.
13. Some species of Australian geckos are known to make distinct chirping or barking sounds, especially during mating calls or territorial disputes.
14. Geckos have been known to live for several years, with some species capable of reaching an age of up to 20 years or more.
15. Australian geckos play an important role in the ecosystem as they help control populations of insects, acting as natural pest controllers.

Can we keep Australian Gecko as our Pet?

We cannot keep the Australian Gecko reptile as a pet because it is not suitable or ethical to do so. Australian Geckos are native to Australia and have an important role in their ecosystems. These reptiles have specific needs and behaviors that are difficult to replicate in a home environment, which can lead to their stress and poor health.

Keeping Australian Geckos as pets can also have a negative impact on their populations and even contribute to their extinction. These reptiles are not bred in captivity very often, so getting them as pets usually means taking them from their natural habitats. This practice is harmful because it disrupts their natural balance and can lead to a decline in their numbers over time.

Furthermore, some Australian Gecko species are already facing extinction due to various factors, such as habitat loss and climate change. It is crucial to protect these reptiles in their natural habitats and focus on conservation efforts instead of keeping them as pets.

In conclusion, it is not suitable or ethical to keep Australian Gecko reptiles as pets. These reptiles have specific needs, and taking them from their natural habitats can harm their population and contribute to their extinction. Instead, we should work towards protecting them in the wild and supporting conservation efforts to ensure their survival.

Size of Australian Gecko

Australian geckos are fascinating reptiles found in the land down under. These little creatures come in a variety of sizes, with the biggest ones measuring around 12 inches in length. However, most Australian geckos are much smaller, ranging from 2 to 6 inches long.

The size of Australian geckos is influenced by a number of factors including their species and habitat. Different species have different average sizes, with some being larger than others. Additionally, the environment in which a gecko lives can also impact its size. For instance, geckos living in lush forests may have more food available to them, allowing them to grow bigger than their counterparts in drier regions.

Smaller geckos, like the ones around 2 inches long, are incredibly tiny and adorable. They have delicate bodies and slender tails that help them balance and climb on different surfaces. These little geckos are masters of camouflage, blending in perfectly with their surroundings. On the other hand, the larger gecko species are more robust in appearance, with thicker bodies and tails.

In conclusion, Australian geckos come in a variety of sizes, with the largest ones measuring about 12 inches long. However, most geckos are much smaller, ranging from 2 to 6 inches in length. The size of these reptiles can vary depending on their species and the environment they inhabit. Smaller geckos are incredibly tiny and cute, while the bigger ones have a more robust appearance. Australian geckos are truly captivating creatures and a wonderful part of Australia’s rich biodiversity.

Habitat of Australian Gecko

Australian geckos live in a variety of habitats across Australia. They can be found in forests, deserts, grasslands, and even in people’s homes. These reptiles are well adapted to their environment and can survive in different climates.

In forests, geckos make their homes in the trees. They have special sticky pads on their feet that allow them to climb and stick to the tree trunks and branches. This helps them move around easily and catch insects for food. The trees also provide a safe haven for geckos to rest and hide from predators.

Deserts are another common habitat for Australian geckos. These reptiles have developed unique features to survive in the harsh desert conditions. Their scales help them retain moisture, and they can store fat in their tails in case food becomes scarce. Geckos in the desert are experts at camouflaging, blending with the sand or rocks to avoid being seen by predators.

Grasslands are also home to Australian geckos. Here, they can hide amongst the tall grasses and use their excellent vision to spot insects and other small prey. They can move quickly and quietly to capture their food. The grasslands provide plenty of hiding places and protection for these small reptiles.

In conclusion, Australian geckos can be found in a variety of habitats across the country. They are well adapted to their environment, whether it’s the towering trees of the forests, the scorching deserts, or the vast grasslands. These reptiles have unique features that help them survive and thrive in their specific habitats.

Evolution of Australian Gecko

Geckos are amazing creatures that have been living on our planet for millions of years. They have evolved and changed over time to survive in different environments, and the Australian gecko is no exception. Let’s take a look at the evolution of this fascinating reptile!

In the beginning, Australian geckos were similar to their ancestors that lived in other parts of the world. They had scaly skin, long tails, and sticky pads on their feet that allowed them to climb walls and ceilings. However, as they adapted to the unique conditions of Australia, they developed some special features.

One important adaptation is their ability to store fat in their tails. This helps them survive in harsh climates with limited food and water. Some Australian geckos also have large eyes to see better in the dark, while others have bright colors to warn predators that they are poisonous.

Over time, geckos in Australia have diversified into many different species. Some have adapted to life in the desert where it’s very hot and dry, while others have made their homes in rainforests where it’s humid and wet. Each species has its own set of characteristics that help it thrive in its specific habitat.

In conclusion, Australian geckos have evolved and changed over millions of years to survive in their unique environment. They have developed special features like fat-storing tails, large eyes, and bright colors to adapt to different conditions. This diversity of geckos in Australia showcases the incredible ability of animals to adapt and thrive in different environments.

Classification of Australian Gecko

The Australian gecko reptile belongs to the family of lizards called Gekkonidae. These reptiles are small and are known for their ability to climb walls and ceilings. They have tapered bodies, short limbs, and large eyes with vertical pupils. The Australian gecko reptile has a variety of species, each with its own unique characteristics.

The Australian gecko reptile can be divided into two main groups: the terrestrial geckos and the arboreal geckos. The terrestrial geckos are found mainly on the ground and have adapted to living in rocky areas. They have strong, sturdy limbs and rough skin that helps them camouflage with their surroundings. On the other hand, the arboreal geckos are skilled climbers and are often found in trees. They have slender bodies and long, agile limbs that allow them to move swiftly through the branches.

Among the different species of Australian gecko reptile, some are more widely known. The most common one is the golden-tailed gecko, which is found in the northern parts of Australia. These geckos have a golden tail, which helps them blend in with the sandy soil. Another well-known species is the barking gecko. As the name suggests, this gecko can make a loud barking sound, especially during the mating season.

In conclusion, the Australian gecko reptile is a diverse group of lizards belonging to the Gekkonidae family. They can be classified into terrestrial and arboreal geckos, each with its own unique characteristics. Some species, such as the golden-tailed gecko and the barking gecko, are widely recognized. These reptiles are fascinating creatures with their ability to climb and adapt to various environments.

Different Types of Australian Gecko

1. Marbled Velvet Gecko: This gecko is endemic to Australia and has a beautiful marbled pattern on its speckled skin. It can camouflage perfectly with its surroundings and prefers hiding during the day in rocky crevices.

2. Thick-tailed Gecko: These geckos have a bulky body and a wide, fat tail. They are nocturnal and have unique thin-edged scales on their tails that break easily when threatened, enabling them to escape from predators.

3. Crocodile Gecko: These geckos are known for their crocodile-like appearance due to their bumpy, scaly skin. They are small in size and can change their color, ranging from brown to vibrant shades of green, depending on their mood and environment.

4. Knob-tailed Gecko: This gecko species is named after the large knob present at the base of its tail. They have a spiky appearance with bumpy skin and a long, slender tail. They are known for their loud hissing when threatened.

5. Leaf-tailed Gecko: These geckos have a flat body and a leaf-shaped tail, which helps them blend seamlessly with their surroundings. They are masters of camouflage and have unique skin patterns resembling dried leaves, making them almost invisible.

6. Velvet Gecko: This gecko is known for its soft, velvet-like skin texture, which gives it its name. They have large eyes and a bumpy appearance. Velvet geckos are often found hiding in rock crevices or tree barks during the day.

7. Spinifex Gecko: These geckos are adapted to live in the arid regions of Australia and have specialized feet with sticky pads that allow them to cling to spinifex grass. They have a sandy-brown color and are rarely found far from their spiky habitat.

8. Golden-tailed Gecko: These geckos have a vibrant golden-colored tail, contrasting with their pale, speckled body. They are nocturnal and spend most of their time hiding in rocky areas. They have adhesive toepads that enable them to climb vertical surfaces.

9. Ocellated Velvet Gecko: This gecko species is known for its stunning ocelli, which are distinct eye-like markings on its body. These vibrant markings help camouflage the gecko among rocks and bark. They are commonly found in the arid regions of Australia.

10. Western Banded Gecko: Found primarily in Western Australia, these geckos have distinctive dark bands across their pale body. They are skillful climbers and prefer rocky habitats. These geckos are known to have a gentle temperament and are often kept as pets by reptile enthusiasts.

Geographical Presence of Australian Gecko

The Australian Gecko reptile can be found in the region known as Australia. Australia is a big country with diverse landscapes, including deserts, rainforests, and coastal areas. The geckos are adapted to survive in these different environments and can be seen living in different parts of the country.

However, there are certain regions in Australia where the Australian Gecko is not found. These geckos prefer warm and dry climates, so they are not commonly found in colder regions, like the southern parts of Australia. They also avoid areas with extreme temperatures, such as high mountain ranges where it gets very cold. Additionally, the geckos are not typically found in urban areas or heavily populated cities as they prefer more natural habitats.

In summary, the Australian Gecko reptile can be found in different regions of Australia, but not all parts of the country. They are well-adapted to the warm and dry climate of Australia and can be seen in areas like deserts, rainforests, and coastal regions. However, they are not commonly found in colder regions, high mountain ranges, or urban areas.

Scientific Name of Australian Gecko

The scientific name of a well-known Australian gecko reptile is Underwoodisaurus milii. This unique species of gecko is commonly known as the thick-tailed or barking gecko. It gets its name from its distinctive thick tail, which helps it store fat reserves to survive in its arid environment. The gecko is small in size, measuring around 4-5 inches long, with a slender body and large round eyes.

The thick-tailed gecko is a native of Australia, specifically found in the arid and semi-arid regions of South Australia, New South Wales, and Victoria. It prefers rocky habitats, such as sandstone outcrops and cliff faces, where it can hide during the day and emerge at night to hunt for insects and small spiders. This species is nocturnal, meaning it is most active during the night when it searches for food.

These geckos are fascinating creatures with some unique characteristics. One of their interesting behaviors is that they can bark like a dog. When threatened or feeling territorial, they emit a series of barking-like sounds. This sound is produced by grinding together their lower jaw and parts of their throat. This behavior serves as a warning to potential predators or other geckos to stay away.

In conclusion, the scientific name of the Australian gecko reptile is Underwoodisaurus milii. This small lizard, also known as the thick-tailed or barking gecko, is found in rocky habitats across arid regions of South Australia, New South Wales, and Victoria. Its distinctive features include a thick tail for fat storage and the ability to bark like a dog as a defensive mechanism.

Diet of Australian Gecko

The Australian Gecko reptile has a very interesting diet. These little creatures like to eat insects and spiders. They use their sticky tongues to catch their prey. They are very good at catching their food!

Geckos have a variety of insects in their diet. They eat things like flies, ants, and beetles. Sometimes they even eat other small creatures like spiders or worms. They are not very picky eaters and will eat whatever they can find.

In order to catch their food, geckos have a special adaptation. They have a tongue that is sticky so that it can quickly catch insects and spiders. When they see their prey, they shoot out their tongue and it sticks to the bug or spider. Then, they quickly pull it back into their mouth to eat it. This is how they are able to catch their dinner!

In conclusion, the diet of the Australian Gecko reptile consists of insects and spiders. They are not picky eaters and will eat whatever they can find. They have a special sticky tongue that helps them catch their food. This is how they survive and stay healthy in their environment.

Locomotion of Australian Gecko

The Australian Gecko is a reptile with a special way of moving called locomotion. Locomotion is how an animal gets from one place to another. This type of gecko can walk and climb on many different surfaces, like walls and ceilings. It uses its specialized feet to do this. The gecko’s feet have tiny hairs that stick to the surface, allowing it to grip on and move around easily. This is kind of like how a person uses their hands to grip a wall while rock climbing. The gecko can even hang upside down by its feet! It’s amazing how this little creature can move in such a unique way.

The Australian Gecko is a master of locomotion. It can crawl, climb, and even walk upside down! This is because its feet have special hairs that help it stick to surfaces. Just like how we use our hands and feet to hold onto things, this gecko can use its sticky feet to cling to different surfaces. This allows it to move around with ease, even on smooth surfaces like glass. It’s quite a sight to see this tiny reptile scurrying around, defying gravity as it goes. The Australian Gecko’s locomotion skills are truly fascinating!

Social and Sexual Behaviour of Australian Gecko

Geckos, a type of reptile found in Australia, have interesting social and sexual habits. These unique creatures display social behavior by interacting with each other. They communicate through body language, like head bobbing or tail wagging. This helps them establish territories and determine their place in the hierarchy.

When it comes to sexual behavior, geckos have some fascinating characteristics. The males often engage in courtship rituals to attract females. They may perform elaborate displays, such as shaking their tails or changing colors, to impress the opposite sex. Once a male successfully grabs a female’s attention, they mate.

After mating, female geckos lay their eggs. Some species lay their eggs in hidden places, while others attach them to surfaces, like tree trunks or rocks. Interestingly, female geckos can reproduce without needing a male gecko. This process is called parthenogenesis and allows females to have offspring without mating.

In summary, Australian geckos have social habits that involve body language and establishing territories. Their sexual behavior includes courtship rituals and methods of reproduction that vary among different species. These intriguing reptiles have adapted unique ways to interact and ensure their survival in the vast Australian ecosystem.

Reproduction and Lifecycle of Australian Gecko

The Australian Gecko reptile has a unique life cycle and way of reproducing. Let us explore their fascinating world!

First, let’s learn about how these amazing creatures make babies. Australian Geckos reproduce by laying eggs. The female gecko finds a safe place to dig a hole in the ground, where she carefully lays her jelly-like eggs. After laying the eggs, the female covers them up with dirt and leaves, keeping them hidden from predators. The eggs then take some weeks to develop, and eventually, little baby geckos, called hatchlings, emerge from the eggs. It’s like a mini miracle!

Once the hatchlings come out of their eggs, they are very tiny. They have soft and delicate skin, which hardens and toughens as they grow older. These baby geckos are fully independent from birth and can start hunting for their own food. As they grow, their skin starts to change color, helping them blend into their surroundings and stay safe from predators. Time flies, and before we know it, these little hatchlings become adult geckos, ready to lay eggs of their own and continue the life cycle!

In conclusion, the Australian Gecko reptile has a fascinating life cycle. They lay eggs, from which hatchlings emerge. These hatchlings grow and transform into adult geckos, eventually laying eggs themselves. It’s like a never-ending cycle of new life and adventure!

Threats to Australian Gecko

The Australian Gecko reptile faces several threats that put its survival at risk. One major threat is habitat loss. This means that the places where geckos live are disappearing. Sometimes, people cut down trees or plants to make space for buildings and farms. This leads to less food and shelter for the geckos. If they don’t have enough food and a safe place to live, their numbers will decrease.

Another threat to the Australian Gecko is pollution. Pollution is when harmful substances get into the environment and can harm plants and animals. For example, some chemicals from factories or cars can get into the air or water. This pollution can make it harder for geckos to stay healthy and reproduce. It can also affect their food sources, such as insects or plants, which may become contaminated.

Lastly, invasive species pose a threat to the Australian Gecko. Invasive species are animals or plants that are not native to a particular ecosystem and can harm the local wildlife. Some invasive species may eat the geckos or compete with them for food and resources. This can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem and put the geckos at risk.

In conclusion, the Australian Gecko reptile faces threats due to habitat loss, pollution, and invasive species. These threats are causing harm to their population, making it important for us to take action to protect them. By preserving their habitats, reducing pollution, and controlling invasive species, we can help ensure the survival of these unique reptiles.

Population of Australian Gecko

The population of the Australian Gecko reptile is estimated to be around 5,000 individuals. These small reptiles are native to Australia and can be found in various habitats, such as deserts, grasslands, and forests. They have adapted to live in these different environments and are known for their ability to climb walls and trees.

However, sadly, if this reptile were to become extinct, it would mean that there are no more Australian Geckos left in the world. Extinction happens when a species no longer exists, and this can occur for many reasons, such as habitat destruction, climate change, or the introduction of invasive species. The loss of the Australian Gecko would be a great loss to the biodiversity of Australia.

It is important to protect and preserve the habitats of the Australian Gecko and other vulnerable species to prevent their extinction. Efforts such as creating wildlife sanctuaries, implementing conservation programs, and spreading awareness about the importance of biodiversity can help prevent the extinction of these fascinating creatures.

Conclusion

The Australian Gecko is a fascinating reptile found in, as the name suggests, Australia. They have a rich history and play an important role in the ecosystem. Let’s delve into some interesting facts about this unique creature.

Geckos come in various sizes, but the Australian Gecko is relatively small, usually measuring around 8 to 13 centimeters in length. Despite their small size, they have a remarkable ability to climb walls and ceilings due to the presence of tiny hairs on their toes, called setae.

These reptiles are mainly found in the arid regions of Australia. They often make their homes in trees, crevices, or even human dwellings. They are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active during the night. During the day, geckos typically hide away to avoid predators and to regulate their body temperature, as they are ectothermic animals, relying on external sources of heat to warm their bodies.

In conclusion, the Australian Gecko is a fascinating reptile with a rich history and interesting qualities. These small creatures have adapted well to their environment, using their unique climbing abilities to survive and thrive. As important members of the reptile family, geckos remind us of the diversity and wonder of the natural world.

Frequently Asked Questions about Australian Gecko (FAQ’s)

Q: What is an Australian Gecko reptile?
A: An Australian Gecko reptile is a type of reptile native to Australia that belongs to the family Gekkonidae.

Q: What is the size of an Australian Gecko reptile?
A: The size of an Australian Gecko reptile can vary depending on the species, but they generally range from 3 to 6 inches in length.

Q: What is the lifespan of an Australian Gecko reptile?
A: The lifespan of an Australian Gecko reptile can vary depending on the species, but they typically live for about 5 to 15 years in captivity.

Q: What do Australian Gecko reptiles eat?
A: Australian Gecko reptiles are primarily insectivorous, feeding on small insects such as crickets, beetles, and spiders.

Q: Can Australian Gecko reptiles be kept as pets?
A: Yes, Australian Gecko reptiles can be kept as pets. However, they require specific care and a suitable enclosure with proper temperature, humidity, and lighting.

Q: Are Australian Gecko reptiles venomous?
A: No, Australian Gecko reptiles are not venomous. They do not pose any harm or danger to humans.

Q: Do Australian Gecko reptiles have any predators?
A: Yes, Australian Gecko reptiles have various natural predators, including snakes, birds, and larger reptiles.

Q: Do Australian Gecko reptiles shed their skin?
A: Yes, Australian Gecko reptiles regularly shed their skin. It is a natural process that allows them to grow and replace damaged or old skin.

Q: Can Australian Gecko reptiles change their color?
A: Yes, some Australian Gecko reptiles, such as the Knob-Tailed Gecko, have the ability to change their color to blend in with their surroundings.

Q: Are Australian Gecko reptiles social animals?
A: No, Australian Gecko reptiles are generally solitary and do not exhibit social behavior. They are territorial and prefer to live alone.

Q: Do Australian Gecko reptiles make any sounds?
A: Yes, some Australian Gecko reptiles, such as the Barking Gecko, are known to make vocalizations that sound like barking or chirping.

Q: Where can Australian Gecko reptiles be found in Australia?
A: Australian Gecko reptiles can be found in various habitats across Australia, including woodlands, grasslands, deserts, and tropical rainforests.

Q: Do Australian Gecko reptiles have any special adaptations?
A: Yes, Australian Gecko reptiles have several unique adaptations, such as adhesive toe pads that allow them to climb vertical surfaces, and a specialized tail that can be dropped and regrown if threatened.

Q: Can Australian Gecko reptiles survive in cold climates?
A: Australian Gecko reptiles are primarily adapted to warm climates and may struggle to survive in colder regions. They require specific temperature conditions to thrive.

Q: Are there any conservation concerns for Australian Gecko reptiles?
A: Some Australian Gecko reptile species are vulnerable or have restricted distributions, making them susceptible to habitat loss and other threats. Conservation efforts are important to protect these species.

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