Geckos, small to medium-sized lizards of the infraorder Gekkota, captivate with their vibrant colors, unique toe pads, and vocalizations, making them popular pets and ecological marvels. With over 1,500 species across six families—Carphodactylidae, Diplodactylidae, Eublepharidae, Gekkonidae, Phyllodactylidae, and Sphaerodactylidae—they thrive in warm climates from rainforests to deserts, excluding Antarctica. Known for climbing smooth surfaces using nanoscale hairs (setae) and regenerating tails via autotomy, geckos are diverse in size, behavior, and habitat.
These lizards are renowned for their specialized toe pads, equipped with microscopic hairs that allow them to climb smooth surfaces, even glass. Their ability to regenerate tails after losing them to predators adds to their resilience. Most feed on insects, though some enjoy fruit, playing a key role in controlling pest populations in their ecosystems.
Geckos communicate through chirps, clicks, or barks, a trait rare among lizards, used for territorial defense or mating. Their large, expressive eyes provide excellent night vision, aiding their hunting prowess. Some lack eyelids, using their tongues to clean their eyes, a quirky adaptation that enhances their charm.
As pets, geckos are popular for their low-maintenance care, thriving in small tanks with specific heat and humidity. Their diverse appearances and behaviors appeal to both beginners and seasoned keepers. However, habitat loss threatens wild populations, underscoring the need for conservation to protect these ecological gems.
Types of Geckos
Leopard Gecko (Eublepharis macularius)
The Leopard Gecko, native to arid regions of Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan, is a top pet choice due to its docile nature and ease of care. Growing to 7-10 inches, it sports a yellow body with black spots, with captive-bred morphs showing orange, albino, or patternless variations. Unlike most geckos, it has eyelids and lacks adhesive toe pads, preferring terrestrial habitats. A 20-gallon tank with a basking spot (88-90°F) and hides suits one or two geckos, with a diet of gut-loaded crickets and mealworms. Its 10-20-year lifespan and beginner-friendly temperament make it ideal for all ages.
Crested Gecko (Correlophus ciliatus)
Crested Geckos, endemic to New Caledonia, are arboreal lizards reaching 7-9 inches, named for the fringed crest over their eyes. Their vibrant colors—red, orange, or yellow—and prehensile tails make them visually striking. Nocturnal and skittish, they thrive in a 20-gallon vertical tank (78-82°F) with branches and foliage, eating a commercial diet like Pangea Fruit Mix and occasional insects. Thought extinct until 1994, their low-maintenance care and 15-20-year lifespan suit beginners, though handling requires caution due to their jumpy nature.
Tokay Gecko (Gekko gecko)
The Tokay Gecko, a Southeast Asian native, is the largest pet gecko, growing to 10-16 inches with striking blue-grey skin and orange spots. Known for loud “to-kay” calls, it’s territorial and may bite, suiting experienced keepers. A 20-30-gallon vertical tank (80-90°F) with climbing structures and high humidity (60-80%) is ideal. Its carnivorous diet includes insects and small vertebrates, fed every 2-3 days. Despite its feisty demeanor, its vivid colors and 10-20-year lifespan make it a rewarding pet for dedicated owners.
African Fat-tailed Gecko (Hemitheconyx caudicinctus)
African Fat-tailed Geckos, from West Africa, resemble Leopard Geckos but store fat in their thick tails, which are as wide as their head when healthy. Growing to 7-9 inches, they have brown bands and a calm disposition. A 10-20-gallon tank (75-80°F) with a humid hide and substrate like coconut husk suits them. They eat insects like crickets, dusted with calcium, and live 10-20 years. Their docile nature and ease of care make them great for beginners, though they stress easily with frequent handling.
Gargantuan gecko (Rhacodactylus auriculatus)
Gargantuan Geckos, also from New Caledonia, reach 8-10 inches with horn-like head projections and vibrant red, orange, or blue patterns. Crepuscular and less social, they need a 20-gallon vertical tank (75-82°F) with climbing vines and minimal handling to avoid stress from potential bites. Their diet mirrors Crested Geckos, blending commercial food and insects. Their unique, gargoyle-like appearance and 15-20-year lifespan appeal to experienced keepers, but their sharp teeth and solitary nature require careful husbandry.
Giant Day Gecko (Phelsuma grandis)
Giant Day Geckos, native to Madagascar, are diurnal, growing to 9-12 inches with vivid green skin and red markings. Active and social, they thrive in pairs (avoiding male-male pairs to prevent aggression) in a 40-gallon vertical tank (80-85°F) with plants and UVB lighting. Their diet includes fruit nectar, commercial mixes, and insects. Their bright colors and 15-20-year lifespan make them a stunning pet, though their skittish nature suits owners who enjoy observation over handling.
Yellow-headed Gecko (Ptychozoon kuhli)
Yellow-headed Geckos, or Flying Geckos, from Southeast Asia, are a 6-8 inch species with webbed limbs for gliding between trees. Their mottled brown coloration provides camouflage in their arboreal habitats. A 20-gallon vertical tank (80-85°F) with high humidity (70-80%) and branches is required, and they eat insects like crickets or roaches. Nocturnal and fragile, they’re best suited for experienced keepers, with a lifespan of 10-15 years. Their gliding ability adds a unique dynamic to their care.
Frog-eyed Gecko (Teratoscincus scincus)
Frog-eyed Geckos, from Central Asia’s deserts, grow to 5-8 inches with large, slit-like eyes and a stocky tan body with mottled spots. Terrestrial and nocturnal, they prefer a 20-gallon tank (85-95°F) with sandy substrate and hides, eating insects. Handling stresses them, risking tail loss, so they’re suited for display. Their curious nature and 15-20-year lifespan make them ideal for beginners who prioritize stable tank conditions, but their heat needs require attention.
Madagascar Ground Gecko (Paroedura picta)
Madagascar Ground Geckos, reaching 5 inches, have brick-red bodies with brown and white mottling. Terrestrial and nocturnal, they thrive in a 15-gallon tank (80-85°F) with rocks and low humidity. Their insectivorous diet is simple, and their docile nature suits beginners. Among 22 subspecies, Paroedura pictus is the top pet choice, living 10-15 years. Their small size and unique patterns make them a low-maintenance option for compact setups.
Yellow-headed Day Gecko (Phelsuma kuehnei)
Yellow-headed Day Geckos, from Madagascar, are tiny (3.5-4 inches) diurnal lizards with neon yellow heads and green bodies. Social and active, they need a 10-gallon vertical tank (80-85°F) with plants and UVB lighting, housing multiple females safely. They eat fruit and insects, living 10-15 years. Their vivid colors and energetic behavior suit gentle beginners, but their fragility requires careful handling to avoid stress.
White-lined Gecko (Gekko vittatus)
White-lined Geckos, native to Indonesia and New Guinea, grow to 6-8 inches with dark bodies accented by white stripes. Arboreal and nocturnal, they need a 20-gallon vertical tank (80-90°F) with climbing structures and moderate humidity (60%). Their insectivorous diet is straightforward, but their skittish nature and biting tendency make them better for observation. With a 10-15-year lifespan, they’re suited for keepers who appreciate lively, agile lizards.
Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
Mediterranean House Geckos, widespread in coastal regions, are 4-6-inch nocturnal lizards with tan skin and black spots. Often found in human homes, they’re hardy and pesticide-resistant. A 10-gallon tank (75-85°F) with hides and a simple insect diet suits them. Their 5-10-year lifespan and low-maintenance care make them beginner-friendly, though their small size and nocturnal habits limit interaction.
Chinese Cave Gecko (Goniurosaurus hainanensis)
Chinese Cave Geckos, from southern China, grow to 5-10 inches with bumpy skin and varied colors like purple or orange. Carnivorous and nocturnal, they prefer a 20-gallon tank (75-80°F) with high humidity (70%) and caves for hiding. Their insect diet and 10-15-year lifespan suit first-time reptile owners, but their sensitivity to handling requires a gentle approach. Their unique appearance adds intrigue to any collection.
Leachie Gecko (Rhacodactylus leachianus)
Leachie Geckos, the largest gecko species, hail from New Caledonia, reaching 13-17 inches. Their loose, wrinkly skin and green-brown hues are distinctive. Arboreal and omnivorous, they need a 40-50-gallon tank (80-85°F) with sturdy branches and a diet of fruit and insects. Experienced keepers value their 20-30-year lifespan, but their size and solitary nature demand significant space and expertise.
Gold Dust Day Gecko (Phelsuma laticauda)
Gold Dust Day Geckos, from Madagascar and Comoros, are 4-6-inch diurnal lizards with bright green skin and gold speckles. They thrive in a 20-gallon vertical tank (80-85°F) with plants and UVB, eating nectar, fruit, and insects. Social but fragile, they live 10-15 years, suiting gentle beginners who enjoy active, colorful pets. Their vivid markings make them a standout in vivariums.
Mourning Gecko (Lepidodactylus lugubris)
Mourning Geckos, found in the Indo-Pacific, are 3-4-inch parthenogenetic females, reproducing without males. Their brown-grey bodies blend into tropical habitats. A 10-gallon vertical tank (75-80°F) with high humidity suits small groups, feeding on fruit and tiny insects. Their 10-15-year lifespan and low-maintenance care appeal to beginners, though their small size limits handling.
Electric Blue Gecko (Lygodactylus williamsi)
Electric Blue Geckos, from Tanzania’s Kimboza Forest, are 2-3-inch diurnal lizards with males displaying vibrant blue scales. Critically endangered, they need a 10-gallon vertical tank (80-85°F) with high humidity and UVB, eating small insects and nectar. Their 5-10-year lifespan and delicate nature suit experienced keepers. Their stunning color makes them a rare gem.
Banded Gecko (Coleonyx variegatus)
Banded Geckos, native to the southwestern U.S., grow to 4-6 inches with pinkish-tan skin and darker bands. Terrestrial and nocturnal, they thrive in a 10-gallon tank (75-85°F) with sandy substrate and hides, eating insects. Their 10-15-year lifespan and calm demeanor suit beginners, though they’re less common in the pet trade.
Mossy Prehensile-tailed Gecko (Rhacodactylus chahoua)
Mossy Prehensile-tailed Geckos, from New Caledonia, reach 8-10 inches with moss-like green and red patterns. Arboreal and nocturnal, they need a 20-gallon vertical tank (75-82°F) with branches and a diet like Crested Geckos. Their 15-20-year lifespan and striking appearance appeal to experienced keepers, but their solitary nature requires careful handling.
Flat-tailed House Gecko (Hemidactylus platyurus)
Flat-tailed House Geckos, from Southeast Asia, are 5-6-inch nocturnal lizards with flattened tails for camouflage. They thrive in a 10-gallon tank (75-85°F) with moderate humidity, eating insects. Known for sprinting across water surfaces, they’re hardy and live 5-10 years, suiting beginners who enjoy observing agile lizards.
Bibron’s Gecko (Pachydactylus bibronii)
Bibron’s Geckos, from southern Africa, grow to 6-8 inches with robust bodies and mottled brown patterns. Terrestrial and nocturnal, they need a 20-gallon tank (80-85°F) with rocky hides and a simple insect diet. Their 10-15-year lifespan and hardy nature make them suitable for beginners, though their reclusive habits limit interaction.
Common House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus)
The Common House Gecko, a 3-6-inch nocturnal lizard native to Southeast Asia but now global due to human introduction, thrives in urban areas. Its grey-tan skin with dark spots and chirping calls make it a familiar sight on walls. A 10-gallon tank (75-85°F) with moderate humidity and an insect diet (crickets, roaches) suits it. Hardy and living 5-10 years, it’s beginner-friendly, though its small size and skittish nature favor observation over handling.
New Caledonian Giant Gecko (Rhacodactylus sarasinorum)
The New Caledonian Giant Gecko, from New Caledonia, grows to 9-11 inches with mottled brown or grey skin and a prehensile tail. Arboreal and nocturnal, it needs a 30-gallon vertical tank (75-82°F) with high humidity (60-80%), branches, and a diet of fruit-based mixes and insects. Its calm demeanor and 15-20-year lifespan suit experienced keepers, but its size and climbing needs require robust setups.
Western Banded Gecko (Coleonyx switaki)
Western Banded Geckos, native to the southwestern U.S. and Mexico, reach 4-6 inches with pale pink skin and dark bands. Terrestrial and nocturnal, they thrive in a 10-gallon tank (75-85°F) with sandy substrate, rocks, and an insect diet. Their 10-15-year lifespan and docile nature make them beginner-friendly, though their rarity in the pet trade and nocturnal habits limit their popularity.
Turnip-tailed Gecko (Thecadactylus rapicauda)
Turnip-tailed Geckos, from Central and South America, grow to 7-9 inches with thick, bulbous tails and mottled brown-grey skin. Arboreal and nocturnal, they need a 20-gallon vertical tank (80-85°F) with high humidity (70%) and branches, eating insects. Their 10-15-year lifespan and unique tail shape appeal to experienced keepers, but their skittish nature and climbing agility require secure enclosures.
Satanic Leaf-tailed Gecko (Uroplatus phantasticus)
The Satanic Leaf-tailed Gecko, from Madagascar, is a 2.5-3.5-inch master of camouflage with a leaf-like tail and mottled brown-red skin. Nocturnal and arboreal, it needs a 15-gallon vertical tank (75-80°F) with high humidity (80%) and foliage, eating small insects. Its 5-10-year lifespan and delicate nature suit advanced keepers. Its bizarre, cryptic appearance makes it a standout for display.
Peacock Day Gecko (Phelsuma quadriocellata)
Peacock Day Geckos, from Madagascar, are 4-5-inch diurnal lizards with vibrant green skin and red eye spots. They thrive in a 15-gallon vertical tank (80-85°F) with plants, UVB lighting, and high humidity (60-70%), eating fruit nectar and insects. Social but fragile, they live 10-15 years, suiting gentle beginners. Their vivid colors and active daytime behavior make them a dazzling pet choice.
Striped Day Gecko (Phelsuma klemmeri)
Striped Day Geckos, also from Madagascar, are tiny (3-4 inches) diurnal lizards with turquoise bodies and yellow stripes. They need a 10-gallon vertical tank (80-85°F) with UVB, plants, and high humidity (70%), feeding on small insects and nectar. Their 8-12-year lifespan and delicate nature suit experienced keepers. Their neon colors make them a rare, vibrant addition to small vivariums.
Cat Gecko (Aeluroscalabotes felinus)
Cat Geckos, from Southeast Asia, grow to 6-7 inches with slender bodies and curled, prehensile tails, resembling a cat’s posture. Nocturnal and semi-aquatic, they thrive in a 20-gallon tank (75-80°F) with high humidity (80%) and wet substrates like sphagnum moss, eating insects. Their 10-15-year lifespan and unique behavior suit intermediate keepers, though their reclusive nature limits handling.
Viper Gecko (Teratoscincus bedriagai)
Viper Geckos, from Central Asia’s deserts, reach 4-6 inches with stocky bodies and mottled tan-grey skin. Terrestrial and nocturnal, they need a 10-gallon tank (80-90°F) with sandy substrate and hides, eating insects. Their 10-15-year lifespan and hardy nature make them beginner-friendly, but their small size and nocturnal habits make them better for observation.
Knob-tailed Gecko (Nephrurus levis)
Knob-tailed Geckos, from Australia, grow to 4-5 inches with smooth skin and a distinctive knob-like tail tip. Terrestrial and nocturnal, they thrive in a 10-gallon tank (80-85°F) with sandy substrate and rocks, eating insects. Their 10-15-year lifespan and calm demeanor suit beginners, though their desert-specific needs require precise heating.
Standing’s Day Gecko (Phelsuma standingi)
Standing’s Day Geckos, from Madagascar, are 8-10-inch diurnal lizards with green-grey skin and blue speckles. They need a 30-gallon vertical tank (80-85°F) with UVB, plants, and high humidity (60-70%), eating fruit and insects. Their 10-15-year lifespan and bold colors suit intermediate keepers, but their size and active nature demand spacious setups.
Thick-tailed Gecko (Underwoodisaurus milii)
Thick-tailed Geckos, from Australia, reach 5-7 inches with reddish-brown skin and white spots, named for their bulbous tails. Terrestrial and nocturnal, they thrive in a 15-gallon tank (75-85°F) with rocks and low humidity, eating insects. Their 10-15-year lifespan and hardy nature make them beginner-friendly, with their barking calls adding charm.
Leaf-toed Gecko (Phyllodactylus nocticolus)
Leaf-toed Geckos, from the Americas, are 3-5-inch nocturnal lizards with slender toes and mottled grey-brown skin. They need a 10-gallon tank (75-80°F) with moderate humidity and rocky hides, eating small insects. Their 5-10-year lifespan and reclusive nature suit beginners who prefer low-maintenance pets, though their small size limits interaction.
Chameleon Gecko (Carphodactylus laevis)
Chameleon Geckos, from Australia’s rainforests, grow to 6-8 inches with prehensile tails and green-brown skin. Arboreal and nocturnal, they need a 20-gallon vertical tank (75-80°F) with high humidity (70-80%) and branches, eating insects. Their 10-15-year lifespan and unique appearance suit experienced keepers, but their delicate nature requires careful handling.
Marbled Gecko (Christinus marmoratus)
Marbled Geckos, from southern Australia, are 4-5-inch nocturnal lizards with grey-brown, marbled skin. They thrive in a 10-gallon tank (70-80°F) with low humidity, rocks, and an insect diet. Hardy and living 5-10 years, they’re beginner-friendly, though their nocturnal habits and small size make them better for observation than handling.
Blue-tailed Day Gecko (Phelsuma cepediana)
Blue-tailed Day Geckos, from Mauritius, are 4-5-inch diurnal lizards with green bodies and blue tails. They need a 15-gallon vertical tank (80-85°F) with UVB, plants, and high humidity (70%), eating nectar and insects. Their 10-15-year lifespan and vibrant colors suit gentle beginners, but their fragility requires careful care.
Bent-toed Gecko (Cyrtodactylus louisiadensis)
Bent-toed Geckos, from the Indo-Pacific, grow to 5-7 inches with curved toes and mottled brown skin. Nocturnal and arboreal, they thrive in a 15-gallon vertical tank (75-85°F) with moderate humidity and branches, eating insects. Their 10-15-year lifespan and hardy nature suit intermediate keepers, though their reclusive behavior limits interaction.
Dwarf Gecko (Sphaerodactylus ariasae)
Dwarf Geckos, from the Caribbean, are among the smallest reptiles at 1-2 inches, with brown-grey skin. Terrestrial and crepuscular, they need a 5-gallon tank (75-80°F) with high humidity and leaf litter, eating tiny insects. Their 5-10-year lifespan and delicate nature suit advanced keepers, with their minute size making them a unique challenge.
Ornate Day Gecko (Phelsuma ornata)
Ornate Day Geckos, from Mauritius, are 4-5-inch diurnal lizards with green skin and red-blue markings. They thrive in a 15-gallon vertical tank (80-85°F) with UVB, plants, and high humidity (70%), eating fruit and insects. Their 10-15-year lifespan and vivid colors suit gentle beginners, but their skittish nature requires minimal handling.
Rough-snouted Gecko (Rhacodactylus trachyrhynchus)
Rough-snouted Geckos, from New Caledonia, grow to 8-10 inches with bumpy skin and green-brown hues. Arboreal and nocturnal, they need a 20-gallon vertical tank (75-82°F) with high humidity and branches, eating fruit-based diets and insects. Their 15-20-year lifespan suits experienced keepers, with their unique texture adding intrigue.
Golden-tailed Gecko (Strophurus taenicauda)
Golden-tailed Geckos, from Australia, reach 4-5 inches with grey skin and a striking yellow-orange tail. Terrestrial and nocturnal, they thrive in a 10-gallon tank (75-85°F) with low humidity and rocky hides, eating insects. Their 10-15-year lifespan and hardy nature suit beginners, with their vibrant tails making them a standout display pet.