The Chahoua Gecko (Mniarogekko chahoua) is a unique species of gecko native to the forests of New Caledonia. Known for their calm demeanor and mossy, camouflaged appearance, Chahoua Geckos are a fantastic pet for reptile enthusiasts. A bioactive terrarium setup, which closely replicates their natural habitat, is ideal for these geckos, promoting their health and simplifying enclosure maintenance.
This guide will cover essential aspects of caring for a Chahoua Gecko, including enclosure setup, dietary needs, and bioactive terrarium management.
Natural Habitat and Behavior
Chahoua Geckos are arboreal, meaning they spend most of their time in trees and high vegetation. They inhabit the humid rainforests of New Caledonia, where they use their camouflaged skin to blend in with their surroundings, avoiding predators. These geckos are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. In captivity, providing an enclosure that mimics their natural environment is crucial for their well-being.
Enclosure Setup
Chahoua Geckos require a vertical enclosure to accommodate their climbing behavior. A terrarium measuring at least 18” x 18” x 24” is suitable for a single adult gecko. Providing a variety of climbing surfaces, such as cork bark, branches, and live plants, is essential for keeping them active and engaged.
Bioactive Setup
A bioactive terrarium setup is ideal for Chahoua Geckos, as it provides a naturalistic environment that supports their physical and mental health. Incorporating live plants such as Pothos, Bromeliads, and Dracaena helps maintain humidity levels while offering natural hiding spots and climbing opportunities.
The substrate should consist of a mix of organic soil, coco fiber, and orchid bark, which helps retain moisture while allowing for proper drainage. A drainage layer, along with microfauna like springtails and isopods, helps break down organic waste and maintain cleanliness within the enclosure.
Lighting and Heating
Chahoua Geckos are nocturnal and do not require intense UVB lighting, but a low-level UVB light can benefit their overall health and well-being. Providing a 12-hour light cycle helps regulate their activity levels and ensures they remain on a natural schedule.
Daytime temperatures should be maintained between 72-78°F, with a slight drop to 65-70°F at night. It’s important to avoid high temperatures, as excessive heat can cause stress and lead to health issues. Heating can be managed through an overhead heat source, such as a low-wattage heat bulb, but make sure it doesn’t overheat the enclosure.
Humidity and Hydration
Chahoua Geckos thrive in a humid environment, and maintaining humidity levels between 60-80% is critical to their health. Regular misting of the enclosure will help achieve this, and a bioactive setup with live plants will also assist in maintaining stable humidity levels.
Using a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels is essential, as improper humidity can lead to issues like poor shedding and dehydration. Providing a humid hide is also recommended, especially during shedding periods.
Diet and Feeding
Chahoua Geckos are omnivores and have a varied diet consisting of insects and commercially prepared fruit-based gecko diets, such as Pangea or Repashy. These diets are specifically formulated to provide the necessary nutrients that fruit-eating geckos require. Offering a balanced mix of live insects (such as crickets or small roaches) and fruit diets ensures that your gecko remains healthy.
It is important to dust live insects with calcium and vitamin supplements to prevent nutritional deficiencies, particularly in younger geckos or breeding females. Feeding should occur every 2-3 days for adults and more frequently for juveniles.
Bioactive Terrarium Maintenance
Maintaining a bioactive terrarium involves caring for the plants, substrate, and microfauna within the enclosure. Springtails and isopods act as a cleanup crew, breaking down waste and organic matter, which reduces the need for frequent cleaning. Spot cleaning uneaten food and visible waste is still necessary, but a bioactive system significantly reduces overall maintenance.
Monitoring humidity, temperature, and plant health is crucial to ensure the terrarium remains a healthy environment for your gecko. Periodically, you may need to trim plants or add fresh substrate to maintain the ecosystem’s balance.
Health and Wellness
Chahoua Geckos are generally hardy reptiles but can suffer from issues such as dehydration, improper shedding, and respiratory infections if their environment is not properly maintained. Regular observation of your gecko’s behavior, appearance, and eating habits can help catch health problems early.
Signs of potential health issues include lethargy, weight loss, difficulty shedding, or a lack of appetite. If any of these signs appear, consult a reptile veterinarian to ensure proper care.
Conclusion
The Chahoua Gecko is a unique and fascinating species that thrives in a naturalistic, bioactive environment. By creating a bioactive terrarium that replicates their native habitat, you can provide your gecko with a healthy, stimulating environment that encourages natural behaviors. With the right care, these geckos can live long, healthy lives in captivity.
Cited Source: This care guide has been adapted from content available at The Bio Dude, a trusted resource for bioactive terrarium setups and reptile care.