Crested Gecko (Correlophus ciliatus)
Description:
The crested gecko, also known as the eyelash gecko, is a species of gecko native to southern New Caledonia. It is named for the crest of skin running from above each eye to the tail. These geckos are known for their distinctive appearance, including large, lidless eyes, soft skin, and a prehensile tail.
Habitat:
Crested geckos live in humid, subtropical rainforests and are primarily arboreal, spending most of their time climbing. They are nocturnal and hide during the day.
Diet:
In the wild, they eat fruit, nectar, and small insects. In captivity, a balanced diet includes specially formulated gecko food (CGD – crested gecko diet) and occasional feeder insects like crickets or roaches.
Behavior and Characteristics:
Arboreal, nocturnal, and solitary
Known for tail-dropping (autotomy), though the tail does not regenerate
Calm and docile, making them excellent for handling
Do not require UVB lighting, but benefit from low-level exposure
Morphs (Color and Pattern Variants):
Crested geckos are bred in a wide range of morphs, which refer to specific colorations and patterns. Common morphs include:
Flame – Light dorsal stripe on a darker body
Harlequin – High-contrast patterns on the limbs and sides
Tiger – Vertical striping on a lighter base color
Dalmatian – Spotted with black or red dots
Pinstripe – Two parallel lines running down the dorsal crest
Phantom Pinstripe – Subtle striping with a more muted appearance
Brindle – A marbled or chaotic pattern
Tricolor – Includes three distinct colors, often on a harlequin base
Lilly White – A rare morph with intense white markings
Axanthic – Lacking yellow or red pigments, resulting in a gray-toned gecko
Super Dalmatian – An extreme version of the dalmatian with heavy spotting
Creamsicle – Orange body with cream or white dorsal
Mocha/Cappuccino – Dark brown tones, often very rare
Conservation Status:
Rediscovered in 1994 after being thought extinct, crested geckos are now well-established in the pet trade. Though not currently endangered, habitat degradation remains a concern in the wild.
As Pets:
Crested geckos are among the most popular pet reptiles due to their manageable care needs, gentle nature, and diverse appearance. They do well in bioactive or naturalistic terrariums and are suitable for both beginners and experienced reptile keepers.
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Crested Gecko (Correlophus ciliatus)
Description:
The crested gecko, also known as the eyelash gecko, is a species of gecko native to southern New Caledonia. It is named for the crest of skin running from above each eye to the tail. These geckos are known for their distinctive appearance, including large, lidless eyes, soft skin, and a prehensile tail.
Scientific Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Squamata
Family: Diplodactylidae
Genus: Correlophus
Species: C. ciliatus
Habitat:
Crested geckos live in humid, subtropical rainforests and are primarily arboreal, spending most of their time climbing. They are nocturnal and hide during the day.
Diet:
In the wild, they eat fruit, nectar, and small insects. In captivity, a balanced diet includes specially formulated gecko food (CGD – crested gecko diet) and occasional feeder insects like crickets or roaches.
Behavior and Characteristics:
Arboreal, nocturnal, and solitary
Known for tail-dropping (autotomy), though the tail does not regenerate
Calm and docile, making them excellent for handling
Do not require UVB lighting, but benefit from low-level exposure
Morphs (Color and Pattern Variants):
Crested geckos are bred in a wide range of morphs, which refer to specific colorations and patterns. Common morphs include:
Flame – Light dorsal stripe on a darker body
Harlequin – High-contrast patterns on the limbs and sides
Tiger – Vertical striping on a lighter base color
Dalmatian – Spotted with black or red dots
Pinstripe – Two parallel lines running down the dorsal crest
Phantom Pinstripe – Subtle striping with a more muted appearance
Brindle – A marbled or chaotic pattern
Tricolor – Includes three distinct colors, often on a harlequin base
Lilly White – A rare morph with intense white markings
Axanthic – Lacking yellow or red pigments, resulting in a gray-toned gecko
Super Dalmatian – An extreme version of the dalmatian with heavy spotting
Creamsicle – Orange body with cream or white dorsal
Mocha/Cappuccino – Dark brown tones, often very rare
Conservation Status:
Rediscovered in 1994 after being thought extinct, crested geckos are now well-established in the pet trade. Though not currently endangered, habitat degradation remains a concern in the wild.
As Pets:
Crested geckos are among the most popular pet reptiles due to their manageable care needs, gentle nature, and diverse appearance. They do well in bioactive or naturalistic terrariums and are suitable for both beginners and experienced reptile keepers.