Western
New York Herpetological Society
www.wnyherp.org
©
2001 - 2002 by Western New York Herpetological Society
This
document is for guidance only and should not be used as the sole source of
information. New information is being developed daily. It is recommended that a
concerted effort be made to maintain up-to-date knowledge of the animals of
interest.
Common
Name:
Bibron’s Gecko
Latin
name:
Pachydactylus bibroni
Native
to:
Southern Africa, Angola, and southern Tanzania
Size:
This species generally reach 6 inches (15 cm) in
length, though they can reach sizes of 8 to 9 inches (20-22 cm)
General
appearance:
This arboreal gecko has a beaded appearance and is
varying shades of brown in color. There are five darker stripes across the back
with white spots.
Housing
requirements:
Enclosure:
Bibron’s gecko does well in a 20-gallon or larger
aquarium. A screen top for the enclosure will help with air circulation.
Temperature:
These geckos are best kept at a temperature of 75° to
85° F (24° to 29° C) during the day, with a 90° to 95° F (32° to 35° C) basking spot. Nighttime temperatures should
be 65° to 75° F (18° to 24° C).
Heat/Light:
Both UVA and UVB light is recommended for these
geckos and can be provided with proper fluorescent bulbs. Heat can be provided
with infrared heat bulbs, basking bulbs, or ceramic emitters. Newer Active UV
bulbs now available can be used as well. These self-ballasted bulbs provide UVA
and UVB light as well as heat
Substrate:
Various substrates can be used including crushed
coconut shell and orchid bark. Both of these will help to maintain a higher
humidity level for the gecko. Sphagnum moss can also be used to help raise the
humidity.
Environment:
Because this species is an arboreal species, live
potted or artificial plants can be used to provide a variety of climbing
surfaces to climb on. Live plants can also help maintain the 65% humidity level
that these geckos prefer.
Diet:
As with most geckos, Bibron’s geckos are
insectivorous. They will eat a variety of insects including crickets,
mealworms, superworms, and waxworms. When feeding your gecko insects it is important
to gut load them before feeding to the gecko. Regular vitamin supplements
applied to the prey can also prove beneficial in moderation as well.
Maintenance:
Fresh water should be provided daily. The enclosure
should be spot cleaned daily and disinfected regularly. A 5% bleach solution is
an excellent disinfectant. Be sure to thoroughly rinse the before placing the
gecko back. Regular misting may also be required in order to maintain humidity
levels. After handling your gecko or cage accessories it is always important to
thoroughly wash your hands.
Other
references or recommended reading:
“Rough
Geckos.” Cyberlizards. Updated 6 February 2001. Retrieved 8 September 2002.
<http://www.nafcon.dircon.co.uk/geckos_pachy.html>
“Bibron
Gecko Care Sheets.” Animal Allsorts. Retrieved 8 September 2002.
<http://www.reptileallsorts.com/bibrongecko.htm>
“Bibron’s
Gecko.” Reptile Trust. Retrieved 8 September 2002.
<http://www.reptiletrust.com/reptile_care/care_sheets/lizards/bibrons_gecko.htm>
“Bibron’s
Gecko.” PETsMART. 2002. Retrieved 8 September 2002.
<http://www.petsmart.com/reptile___amphibian/answers/breed_guide/articles/article_3803.shtml>