Gecko Africano de Cauda Gorda

CARE GUIDE

Size: Adults can reach 22cm

Origin: West Africa

Lifespan: Up to 20 years

Natural Habitat: This species inhabits dry and humid areas of the West African savannah.

The Gecko Africano de Cauda Gorda is an African gecko species of growing popularity. With some similarities to the Gecko Leopardo, both in appearance and ease of care, it is a species suited to beginners and more experienced keepers alike.

Although this is an easy species to keep, a few aspects require attention and certain conditions must be ensured, as described in the following paragraphs.

Terrarium

Size: A minimum terrarium of 60x45x45cm is recommended for 1 adult

Material: Glass

 - Heating and Lighting

A terrarium with a thermal gradient should be provided, with a minimum temperature of 22ºC on the cool side and a hotspot of up to 32ºC. At night the temperature should not drop below 15ºC. To achieve daytime temperatures, a Halogen or Neodymium heat lamp should be used. At night, the minimum temperature can be maintained with a heat mat if needed. Both daytime and night-time heat sources should be properly controlled by a thermostat.  

The Gecko Africano de Cauda Gorda does not require UVB radiation. However, it benefits from exposure to low levels of it (using a ShadeDweller lamp).

- Humidity

This species needs intermediate relative humidity to stay healthy. Ideal humidity is between 50% and 60%. The terrarium should be misted daily, ensuring it dries out after a few hours. It is recommended to always have a hide in the terrarium with higher relative humidity than the rest of the enclosure.

A container of fresh, clean water should always be available.

- Decor

As this species inhabits both more humid and more arid areas, the terrarium decor should be designed to recreate a mix of both environments. Arcadia EarthMix can be used as substrate, which also makes it possible to create a bioactive terrarium with isopods and springtails. Rocks and branches can be used to create several hiding areas. Plants, natural or artificial, should also be included as extra cover.

Diet and Supplementation

Feeding habits: Insectivorous

 Diet: Juveniles should be fed every day. As they grow, feeding frequency can be reduced to every other day.

- Foods

Insects: Crickets, Roaches, Calcium Worms, Waxworms, Mealworms...

- Supplementation

For vitamin and mineral supplementation, alternate a meal dusted with Calcium Powder with one dusted with a good-quality Multivitamin Complex (with Vit. D3). 

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