Satanic leaf-tailed gecko (Uroplatus phantasticus)
Photo: Julien Renoult / CC BY 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Reptile · Gecko

Satanic leaf-tailed gecko care guide

Uroplatus phantasticus

AdvancedCITES – buy captive-bred

The satanic leaf-tailed gecko is a advanced-level gecko from Eastern Madagascar. Adults reach 6–9 cm and live 5–10 years in captivity. Cool, humid, heavily planted builds. Pairs only.

  • Enclosure 30 × 30 × 45 cm
  • Temp 18–24°C, cool nights
  • Humidity 75–90%

How much does a satanic leaf-tailed gecko cost in Canada?

Animal$300–700Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$430–810Enclosure $120–230 · equipment $190–420 · bioactive supplies ≈ $130
Yearly upkeep$200–350Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$930–1860All prices CAD, estimates

Satanic leaf-tailed gecko quick facts

Skill level
Advanced
Adult size
6–9 cm
Lifespan
5–10 years
Activity
Nocturnal
Native range
Eastern Madagascar
Minimum enclosure
30 × 30 × 45 cm (12 × 12 × 18 in, ≈ 11 US gal)
Housing
Up to 2 can share; add about 50% more floor space for each extra animal.
Temperature
18–24°C, cool nights
Humidity
75–90%
UVB
Recommended
Diet
Insectivore – small crickets, small roaches, fruit flies
Bioactive style
Tropical arboreal

Satanic leaf-tailed gecko enclosure & bioactive setup

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

  1. Leaf litter2 cm
  2. Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix8 cm
  3. Drainage – clay bio balls4 cm

Most of the action is vertical – keep the soil moist but not wet, and focus on perches and dense planting.

Temperature: 18–24°C, cool nights. Humidity: 75–90%. UVB: Recommended.

What does a satanic leaf-tailed gecko eat?

Insectivore – small crickets, small roaches, fruit flies. Small insects every 2–3 days.

Handling, temperament & health

Delicate; handle only when needed.

Health watch: Heat stress above 26°C, dehydration and parasites in imports.

Cleaning & maintenance schedule

Daily

  • Mist to raise humidity – usually a heavy evening misting with a dry-down by day.
  • Check temperatures at perch height.

Weekly

  • Feed; remove uneaten food (and diet dishes after 24–48 h).
  • Check the drainage layer and prune vines.
  • Look for stuck shed on toes and tails.

Monthly

  • Top up leaf litter.
  • Check branches and mounts are still secure.
  • Clean glass, vents and misting nozzles.

Yearly

  • Refresh the top of the soil in open areas.
  • Replace UVB bulbs (if used) on schedule.

Recommended for a satanic leaf-tailed gecko bioactive

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

Satanic leaf-tailed gecko FAQ

Is the satanic leaf-tailed gecko good for beginners?

The satanic leaf-tailed gecko is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Delicate; handle only when needed.

What size enclosure does a satanic leaf-tailed gecko need?

At least 30 × 30 × 45 cm (about 12 × 12 × 18 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 satanic leaf-tailed gecko cost in Canada?

Typically $300–700 CAD to buy, about $430–810 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $200–350 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a satanic leaf-tailed gecko need?

Temperature: 18–24°C, cool nights. Humidity: 75–90%.

What does a satanic leaf-tailed gecko eat?

Insectivore – small crickets, small roaches, fruit flies. Small insects every 2–3 days.

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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.