Phelsuma madagascariensis kochi MERTENS 1954

Common name:

Koch's giant day gecko

General introduction:

Description:

This lizard belongs to the largest living day geckos. It can reach a total length of about 25 cm. The body colour is a dark, dull green. A faint red stripe extends from the nostril to the eye. On the back there may be little redish dots present. The neck and flanks often are light grey. The ventral side is off-white

Distribution:

This species is widely distributed in northwest and west Madagascar on the coast and in the inland. it was first discovered in the region around Maevatanana.

Habitat:

Phelsuma magascariensis kochi is often found on different trees such as banana trees where it can be seen basking. They avoid human dwellings. The climate is very dry throughout the year and the temperature can be as high as 40°C

Diet:

These day geckos feed on various insects and other invertebrates. They also like to lick soft, sweet fruit, pollen and nectar.

Behaviour:

Reproduction:

The pairing season is between November and the first weeks of Mai. During this period, the females lay up to 6 pairs of eggs. At a temperature of 28°C, the young will hatch after approximately 63-68 days. The juveniles measure 65 mm and reach sexual maturity after one year.

Care and maintenance in captivity:

These animals should be housed in pairs although succesful group breeding with one male and several females has been reported. They need a large, well planted terrarium. The temperature should be about 28°C during the day. The humidity should be maintained around 65%. In captivity, these animals can be fed with crickets, wax moths, fruit flies, mealworms and houseflies.

References:

• Henkel, F.-W. and W. Schmidt (1995) Amphibien und Reptilien Madagaskars, der Maskarenen, Seychellen und Komoren. Ulmer Stuttgart. ISBN 3800173239
  
• McKeown, Sean (1993) The general care and maintenance of day geckos. Advanced Vivarium Systems, Lakeside CA.