Description: This genus contains about 25 species with this one being parthenogenetic, meaning that females do not need a male to reproduce. All of them appear to be like "clones" as males are rare or non-existent. Consequently, it has spread very widely across the tropical Pacific; it only takes one to start a new population. These small, rather stout arboreal geckos are mostly nocturnal and very adaptable. Maximum length is 2 ¾ to 3 ¾", about half of which is the tail. Males (if they exist!) are usually a bit smaller than females. The life span has been known to reach more than 12 years but 5 years is more normal. There is a clear covering over the eyes and they often clean it with their long tongue. They have adhesive toe pads and satiny smooth skin. Although they tolerate handling well, care must be taken to avoid breaking the tail. The dorsal color (which they can change) is off-white to tan with a dark to light brown chevron pattern plus a dark line between eyes and from the nose through the eye. The belly is beige and may be speckled. Hatchlings have a more distinct pattern. These attractive little geckos make a fairly loud chirping sound when feeling good.

Temperature: 75° to 85°F, a small drop at night is okay. Seasonal fluctuations will help to stimulate egg laying. A temperature gradient throughout the enclosure is preferred.

Humidity: Moderate, approximately 50 to 70%. Daily misting is beneficial.

Lighting: UV light is not needed. Plant lights may be needed to grow live plants, use a timer set for around 12 hours on and 12 hours off. A dim night light is required for viewing nocturnal activities.

Feeding: Small crickets, small mealworms and fruit flies are fine as a staple diet but a variety of other insects should be offered. A good vitamin/mineral supplement should be given twice a week for adults and more often for young, growing geckos. Also provide a small dish of calcium in the enclosure. Once a week or so give them mashed up fruit or baby food mixed with supplement. Commercial gecko food can also be offered. Clean water should be available at all times along with misting to allow them to lick up water droplets.

Habitat: Mourning geckos do fine in small groups as long as there is enough space and hiding places for them all. A pecking order will be established and some squabbling will occur but severe attacks are rare. A 10-gallon tank can be used for 2 or 3 but a larger size would be better. Set it up as a semi-dry tropical forest habitat. A secure ventilated lid is needed to keep them from escaping. The enclosure may need to be heated; use an under tank heater or better yet, a heat lamp at one end and allow the other side to be cooler. Hiding places must be provided to help them feel secure. Rocks, branches, artificial and/or live plants can be added. The enclosure should to misted daily or so. Spraying more water in one side of the tank (around the water dish) than the other will provide a humidity gradient for them to choose from. The moisture will help prevent shedding problems.

Breeding: Males are not available nor are they needed, the females will lay fertile eggs without them when conditions are right. Some females may exhibit courtship behavior. Sexual maturity is reached at 8 to 10 months of age. These are communal nesters that lay 2 eggs per clutch, every 2 months, gluing them to the glass or other objects. Usually, the eggs can not be detached without breaking them and may need to be left in place to hatch. Hatching takes place in about 2 months or so when kept at 75 to 80°F. Do not let the temperature fall below 70°F. They may eat the contents of any damaged eggs and may go after the hatchlings. These tiny babies should be carefully caught and removed as soon they hatch. Care for them in a similar manor to the adults.

ENJOY YOUR PET LIFE FORMS, Dave & Donna