Beaded gecko (Lucasium damaeum)
Photo: annakilljoy, moderator of geckoleo.com/forum / Public domain · via Wikimedia Commons

Reptile · Gecko

Beaded gecko care guide

Lucasium damaeum

Intermediate

The beaded gecko is a intermediate-level gecko from Central and southern Australia. Adults reach 8–10 cm and live 8–10 years in captivity. Sandy, arid setup with a humid hide. One pair at most.

  • Enclosure 45 × 30 × 30 cm
  • Temp Warm 28–32°C, cool 22°C
  • Humidity 20–35%

How much does a beaded gecko cost in Canada?

Animal$300–700Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$320–620Enclosure $120–230 · equipment $150–320 · bioactive supplies ≈ $60
Yearly upkeep$150–200Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$770–1520All prices CAD, estimates

Beaded gecko quick facts

Skill level
Intermediate
Adult size
8–10 cm
Lifespan
8–10 years
Activity
Nocturnal
Native range
Central and southern Australia
Minimum enclosure
45 × 30 × 30 cm (18 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 11 US gal)
Housing
Up to 2 can share; add about 50% more floor space for each extra animal.
Temperature
Warm 28–32°C, cool 22°C
Humidity
20–35%
UVB
Recommended
Diet
Insectivore – small crickets, small roaches
Bioactive style
Arid desert

Beaded gecko enclosure & bioactive setup

Give one adult at least 45 × 30 × 30 cm (18 × 12 × 12 inches). Up to 2 can share; add about 50% more floor space for each extra animal. This species suits a arid desert bioactive build.

  1. Soil and sand mix10 cm

A deep, sandy mix packed firmly lets burrows hold their shape; keep only the deepest layer faintly moist.

Temperature: Warm 28–32°C, cool 22°C. Humidity: 20–35%. UVB: Recommended.

What does a beaded gecko eat?

Insectivore – small crickets, small roaches. Adults every 2–3 days, juveniles daily.

Handling, temperament & health

Small and quick; minimal handling.

Health watch: Dehydration and impaction.

Cleaning & maintenance schedule

Daily

  • Check basking temperatures; refresh water (or mist lightly for species that drink droplets).

Weekly

  • Spot-clean waste.

Monthly

  • Lightly moisten one deep corner so burrows hold and isopods survive.
  • Check rock stacks are stable.

Yearly

  • Refresh the top layer; replace UVB bulbs on schedule.

Recommended for a beaded gecko bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (45 × 30 × 30 cm).

Beaded gecko FAQ

Is the beaded gecko good for beginners?

The beaded gecko is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Small and quick; minimal handling.

What size enclosure does a beaded gecko need?

At least 45 × 30 × 30 cm (about 18 × 12 × 12 inches, roughly 11 US gallons) for one adult. Up to 2 can share; add about 50% more floor space for each extra animal.

How much does a beaded gecko cost in Canada?

Typically $300–700 CAD to buy, about $320–620 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $150–200 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a beaded gecko need?

Temperature: Warm 28–32°C, cool 22°C. Humidity: 20–35%.

What does a beaded gecko eat?

Insectivore – small crickets, small roaches. Adults every 2–3 days, juveniles daily.

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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.