Three Lined Knob-Tailed Gecko Care
Three-Lined Knob-Tailed Gecko
(Nephrurus levis)
The Three-Lined Knob-Tailed Gecko is native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Australia. This small, terrestrial gecko is characterized by its distinctive knobbed tail and three prominent lines running down its back, which provides excellent camouflage among the sandy and rocky substrates. Typically, they reach about 4-5 inches in length and are primarily nocturnal, active during the night when they forage for insects and other small invertebrates.
Lifespan:
10-15 years in captivity.
Sexing:
Sexing can generally be done around 6-8 months of age. Males tend to have more pronounced knobs on their tails and are typically slightly larger than females, which have a broader body.
Enclosure:
Juveniles: 10-gallon terrarium (20"x10"x12").
Adults: 20-gallon terrarium (30"x12"x12").
Substrate:
A loose substrate mix, such as a combination of sand and coconut fiber, is ideal for burrowing and mimics their natural habitat.
Lighting & Temperature:
Basking Area: 85-90°F
Ambient Temperature: 78-85F.
Cool Side: 70-75°F.
UVB Lighting: A 5.0 UVB bulb is recommended.
Humidity:
Maintain humidity levels between 30-50%. Light misting can be done once a week to provide moisture without overly dampening the substrate. A hygrometer will help monitor humidity effectively.
Food:
Three-Lined Knob-Tailed Geckos are insectivorous. Feed them a varied diet of crickets, roaches, and other small insects. Juveniles should be fed daily, while adults can be fed every 2-3 days.
Water:
Provide a shallow water dish that is cleaned and filled with fresh water daily. They will also benefit from occasional light misting for hydration.
Supplementation:
Calcium with D3: Dust food 2-3 times weekly.
Calcium without D3: Use on alternating days if adequate UVB lighting is provided.
Multivitamins: Offer once weekly to support overall health
With attentive care and the right setup, Three-Lined Knob-Tailed Geckos can flourish and display their unique charm. Their intriguing appearance and manageable care requirements make them a favorite among gecko enthusiasts. By ensuring their needs are consistently met, you can enjoy a thriving and captivating pet for years to come.