Western
New York Herpetological Society
www.wnyherp.com
©
2001 - 2003 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:
Marbled Gecko
Latin name:
Christinus mamoratus*
*
This species was formerly described as Gekko marmoratus. The WNYHS uses ISIS as a standard for
describing species.
Native
to:
Australia
Size:
Up to 8 inches
General
appearance:
The marbled gecko is a robust gecko with a tan to
olive base color with white blotches. Occasional black blotches are also
present giving the gecko a marbled appearance. These geckos also have lamanae
on their toes allowing them to climb sheer surfaces, including glass.
Housing
requirements:
Enclosure:
This gecko requires at least a 20-gallon aquarium
with a secure lid.
Temperature:
Daytime temperatures should be maintained at 75º to
85º F with basking temperatures of 90º to 95º F. Nighttime temperatures should
be maintained at 70º to 75ºF.
Heat/Light:
Since these are nocturnal geckos, UVA and UVB
lighting is not required though a 12-hour photoperiod should be provided with a
standard incandescent or florescent bulb. The temperature of the enclosure can
be maintained with under-the-tank heaters. Basking spots can be provided with
the use of ceramic emitters and basking bulbs. Hot rocks are not recommended
due to the inability to control the temperature and the possibility of burns.
Substrate:
Substrates such as Bed-a-Beast ™, Lizard Litter ™,
or indoor/outdoor carpeting like AstroTurf ™ all can make excellent substrates.
Environment:
These are arboreal geckos and branches should be
provided for climbing. Hiding places should also be provided. Humidity levels
should be maintained at approximately 75%.
Diet:
These geckos can be fed crickets, mealworms, and
waxworms. Adult males have also been known to eat pinkie mice. Occasionally
fruit baby food can be offered. All uneaten food items should be removed in
four to six hours to prevent spoilage.
Maintenance:
The enclosure should be spot cleaned daily. If using
indoor/outdoor carpeting it is recommended that you have at least a second
piece available to swap with the soiled for ease of cleaning. A 5% bleach
solution can be used to disinfect the enclosure as needed. Be sure to rinse and
dry everything thoroughly before using. Water should be changed daily. Daily
handling is not recommended for this species due to the fact that they are
often easily stressed.
Other
references or recommended reading:
“Marbled
Gecko.” Aussie Lizards. Retrieved Mar 20, 2003
<http://www.geocities.com/aussielizards/marbledgecko.html>
“Marbled
Gecko.” Reptile Allsorts. Retrieved Mar 20, 2003
<http://www.reptileallsorts.com/marbledgecko.html>
“Marbled
Gecko.” PETsMART. Retrieved Mar 20, 2003
<http://www.petsmart.com/reptile___amphibian/answers/breed_guide/articles/article_3873.shtml>