Natural Habitat and Behavior
Geckos colloquially known as water geckos are not a single species but a group adapted to a semi-aquatic lifestyle in the humid, tropical forests of Southeast Asia. Their environment is characterized by its proximity to clean, running water like streams, rivers, and waterfalls. They spend a significant portion of their lives on the surrounding wet rocks, logs, and lush vegetation.
These lizards are exceptional climbers, capable of navigating slick, algae-covered surfaces near water. When faced with a threat, a water gecko’s primary defense is to dive into an adjacent stream or pool. They can remain submerged for a period, hiding beneath rocks or debris until the danger has passed.
As predominantly nocturnal creatures, they emerge from daytime hiding spots in rock crevices or dense foliage to hunt. Their activity is tied to the ambient temperature and humidity, as they thrive in the warm, moist conditions of their ecosystem. This nocturnal lifestyle helps them avoid many diurnal predators and the intense heat of the tropical sun.
Diet and Predators
In their natural environment, water geckos are opportunistic carnivores that feed on a wide variety of invertebrates. Their diet consists of insects like crickets, moths, and beetles that are abundant near the water’s edge, as well as spiders and other small arthropods. These geckos are ambush predators, relying on patience and their camouflage to surprise their prey.
Water geckos are prey for a range of other animals. Snakes are a significant predator, as are larger, more aggressive lizard species that may inhabit the same territory. Predatory birds that hunt along waterways also pose a threat, swooping down to catch unsuspecting geckos. In some cases, larger geckos and even some spiders are known to prey on smaller geckos.
Keeping a Water Gecko as a Pet
Replicating the unique environment of a water gecko is a primary aspect of its care in captivity. A standard terrarium is insufficient, as these animals require a paludarium with both aquatic and terrestrial elements. The water section should be filtered and may require a heater to maintain a stable temperature. The land area needs to provide ample climbing opportunities with rocks, cork bark, and branches, and a secure, screened lid is required to prevent escapes.
Maintaining high humidity and appropriate temperatures is another component of proper care. Humidity levels should be kept high, between 70-80%, through regular misting or an automated misting system. A temperature gradient should be established with a basking spot around 85-90°F and cooler areas in the mid-70s. This allows the gecko to thermoregulate by moving between different temperature zones.
A captive diet should mimic what they would eat in the wild. Gut-loaded insects, such as crickets, dubia roaches, and mealworms, form the basis of their diet. Dusting the insects with a calcium supplement containing D3 before feeding prevents metabolic bone disease, a common health issue in captive reptiles. Due to their skittish nature, water geckos are better for observation than handling, as frequent interaction can cause stress.