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Geckos and Lizards: What’s the Difference?

All geckos are lizards. But are all lizards geckos? Here's a quick guide to what sets them apart
Text by: Anirudh Nair Design by: Diviya Mehra
Updated   December 09, 2025
Text by: Anirudh Nair Design by: Diviya Mehra
Updated   December 09, 2025
1 min read
All geckos are lizards. But are all lizards geckos? Here's a quick guide to what sets them apart
Listen Listen to this article 15:34 min

What is the difference in sizes of lizards and geckos?

Geckos are usually small and less than 30 cm in length, while lizards vary by species and some can grow over one metre in length.

Are geckos and lizards the same?

They are not exactly the same, geckos belong to the family Gekkonidae under the suborder Lacertilia whereas lizards belong to the suborder Lacertilia.

Are lizards and geckos poisonous?

Lizards and geckos are both not poisonous but as a defence mechanism geckos can emit a foul-smelling discharge and faeces on predators whereas lizards cannot emit any toxins.

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