Bibron's Gecko
(Pachydactylus bibroni)

Bibron's geckos are a small lizard from southern Africa only reach six to nine inches in length. Bibron's geckos are arboreal and usually brown in color with five stripes across the back and white spots.

Difficulty

NOVICE to MODERATE:Bibron's geckos can make a good beginner pet. They do require specialized lighting however.

Requirements

An enclosure, such as:

• Glass or acrylic aquarium (20 gallons or larger, depending on the size and number of Bibron's geckos kept) with a secure lid with clamps

Substrate, such as:

• Crushed Coconut Shell
• Orchid Bark
• Sphagnum Moss

A heating element, such as:

• UV producing bulb
• Incandescent heat bulb
• Ceramic infrared heat emitters

Enclosure

Adult Bibron's geckos will need a 20-gallon aquarium or larger sized cage if more than two Bibron's geckos are kept in the enclosure. Branches and rocks are needed for climbing and to provide basking areas. A secured screen top is needed for ventilation. Do not house two adult male Bibron's geckos together as they are territorial and will fight for space in the enclosure. Because the Bibron's gecko is an arboreal species, live potted or artificial plants can be used to provide attractive surfaces to climb on. Live plants can also help maintain the 65% humidity level that these Bibron's geckos require.

Substrate

The substrate or bedding that you use is one of the most important parts of your Bibron's gecko's home, since your Bibron's gecko will be spending much of its time on it. There are many substrates that can be safely used. Some of the most common include crushed coconut shell and orchid bark. Both of these substrates will help to maintain a higher humidity level for the Bibron's gecko. Sphagnum moss can also be used to help raise the humidity. Be sure to clean it often to prevent mold and bacteria growth.

Heating and Light

Bibron's geckos should have daytime temperatures of 75°F to 85°F with a 90°F to 95°F basking area under a spotlight. Nightime temperatures should be 65°F to 75°F. Bibron's geckos require UV light for proper metabolic and bone development. This can be provided with fluorecent bulbs or mercury vapor spot lights which also provide heat. A spotlight with an appropriate wattage incandescnet bulb or ceramic emitter can be used to provide heat. Many hobbyists will install thermometers or thermostats in the enclsosure to be able to accurately maintain these temperatures. We do not recommend the use of any kind of heat rocks as they can often lead to burns on your Bibron's gecko.

Diet

Bibron's geckos are insectivores and will eat a variety of insects including crickets, mealworms, super worms, and wax worms. Be sure to gut load all prey before feeding your Bibron's gecko. Fresh water should always be provided. Powdered vitamin/mineral supplement may be offered once or twice a week.