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 recommend 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>