Reptile · Gecko
African fat-tailed gecko care guide
Hemitheconyx caudicinctus
The african fat-tailed gecko is a beginner-level gecko from West Africa. Adults reach 18–23 cm and live 15–20 years in captivity. Keep the lower soil slightly moist. Best kept alone.
- Enclosure 90 × 45 × 45 cm
- Temp Warm 28–32°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity 40–60% (humid hide 70%+)
How much does a african fat-tailed gecko cost in Canada?
African fat-tailed gecko quick facts
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Adult size
- 18–23 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–20 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- West Africa
- Minimum enclosure
- 90 × 45 × 45 cm (35 × 18 × 18 in, ≈ 48 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 28–32°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity
- 40–60% (humid hide 70%+)
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms
- Bioactive style
- Semi-arid
African fat-tailed gecko enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 90 × 45 × 45 cm (35 × 18 × 18 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a semi-arid bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Semi-Arid Blend12 cm
No drainage layer – water deeply but rarely so the bottom stays slightly moist while the surface stays dry.
Temperature: Warm 28–32°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 40–60% (humid hide 70%+). UVB: Recommended.
What does a african fat-tailed gecko eat?
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults every 2–3 days, juveniles daily.
Handling, temperament & health
Slow and docile; good for gentle handling.
Health watch: Stuck shed, cryptosporidiosis and tail loss.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check basking surface temperature with an infrared thermometer.
- Keep the humid hide damp; refresh water.
Weekly
- Spot-clean waste.
- Every 1–2 weeks, pour water down into the soil around plants and in the cool corner.
Monthly
- Check stones and wood are stable and can’t be tunnelled under.
- Add a few leaves to the cool corner for isopods.
Yearly
- Refresh the top layer in the basking area.
- Replace UVB bulbs on schedule.
Recommended for a african fat-tailed gecko bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (90 × 45 × 45 cm).
Jurassic ABG Semi-Arid Blend
Bioactive soil layer, 12 cm
Canyon Sand
Optional: mix in for a firmer, sandier texture
Eastern Oak Leaves 10/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Terrarium Moss 7L Bag
Humid hide moss
Cork Bark Half Rounds
A hide at each end – plus one humid hide filled with damp moss
Mopani Wood
Climbing and a raised basking spot
Carnelian Stone
Holds heat under the lamp – place directly on the enclosure floor
African fat-tailed gecko FAQ
Is the african fat-tailed gecko good for beginners?
Yes – the african fat-tailed gecko is a good choice for beginners. Slow and docile; good for gentle handling.
What size enclosure does a african fat-tailed gecko need?
At least 90 × 45 × 45 cm (about 35 × 18 × 18 inches, roughly 48 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a african fat-tailed gecko cost in Canada?
Typically $100–250 CAD to buy, about $600–1100 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $250–400 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a african fat-tailed gecko need?
Temperature: Warm 28–32°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 40–60% (humid hide 70%+).
What does a african fat-tailed gecko eat?
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults every 2–3 days, juveniles daily.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.