Beginner's Guide To Crested Gecko Supplies | Tank, Heater, Light, Substrate & More

Summary

In this beginner-friendly video, the creator shares a comprehensive shopping list and essential tips for setting up a crested gecko's habitat. The video covers everything from tank size, substrate, and lighting to heating, decorations, and food. The importance of maintaining proper humidity and temperature, as well as providing a secure and stimulating environment for the gecko, is emphasized. Recommendations for supplies like cork branches, plants, and feeding ledges are included. The creator also discusses various food options, including Pangaea diets and insects, ensuring that geckos get the proper nutrition. The video is a great resource for those starting out with crested geckos.

Takeaways

• 😀 Minimum tank size for an adult crested gecko: 18x18x24 inches (a tall terrarium). Larger tanks are recommended if possible.
• 😀 For babies, a smaller tank (12x12x18 inches) is suitable for the first few months, but should be upgraded to an adult tank after that.
• 😀 Avoid paper towel as substrate due to low humidity and poor appearance. Safe loose substrates like Earth Mix are recommended, especially for bioactive setups.
• 😀 Lighting is essential for geckos; an LED light helps distinguish day and night and brightens up the tank. A good grow light like Jungle Dawn is great for plants.
• 😀 UV lighting is beneficial but not strictly necessary. If used, ensure the mesh on the tank allows UV light through, or adjust UVB percentage as needed.
• 😀 Heating: use a heat mat, ceramic heat emitter, or deep heat projector. Always use a thermostat to prevent overheating, as crested geckos are sensitive to high temperatures.
• 😀 Use a thermometer and hygrometer to monitor temperature and humidity, ensuring proper conditions for your gecko.
• 😀 Decorate the tank with natural climbing structures like cork branches, faux vines, and driftwood to create a safe and engaging environment for your gecko.
• 😀 A feeding ledge is important; magnetic ones are more secure than suction cup models. You can use biodegradable or plastic pots for feeding.
• 😀 Optional extras like a rain system or fogger can help maintain humidity, while a USB desk fan can assist with airflow and cooling during hotter months.
• 😀 Pangaea diet is highly recommended for crested geckos. Offer a variety of flavors, and supplement with insects occasionally, especially for growing geckos.

Q & A

What size tank is recommended for an adult crested gecko?

The minimum recommended tank size for an adult crested gecko is 18 by 18 by 24 inches. It's a tall terrarium, and if you can go larger, it's even better.

Is it okay to use paper towel as a substrate for crested geckos?

No, paper towel is not recommended as a substrate for crested geckos. It can lead to low humidity, unpleasant smells, and an unattractive tank setup. It’s better to use a safe loose substrate like eco earth or earth mix.

What kind of substrate is ideal for crested geckos?

Eco earth or earth mix are ideal substrates for crested geckos. These support high humidity and can also be used for bioactive setups, where custodians like cleanup crews can help maintain the environment.

Do crested geckos need UV light?

Crested geckos do not require UV light to survive, but it can be beneficial for certain aspects of their health, especially if you use live plants in the tank. If using UV, ensure the mesh top of your terrarium doesn’t block too much UVB.

What kind of heater should I use for a crested gecko tank?

The most suitable heaters for a crested gecko tank are heat mats, ceramic heat emitters, or deep heat projectors. Whichever you choose, it is crucial to use a thermostat to avoid overheating, as crested geckos are very sensitive to temperature changes.

What is the recommended temperature range for a crested gecko tank?

Crested geckos do best in temperatures around 75°F (23-24°C). They are quite sensitive to heat, so make sure to monitor the temperature closely, especially in colder months when a heater may be necessary.

Can I use fake plants in my crested gecko's tank?

Yes, you can use fake plants in your crested gecko's tank, especially if you are not going for a bioactive or naturalistic setup. Just make sure the plants are safe for reptiles, and they should be securely fastened to avoid accidental ingestion.

Why is it important to provide climbing structures in a crested gecko tank?

Crested geckos are arboreal, meaning they naturally live in trees and need vertical space and climbing structures to feel secure. Providing branches, cork bark, and vines allows them to climb and explore their environment, which helps reduce stress.

What should I feed my crested gecko?

Crested geckos can be fed a variety of commercial diets like Pangea, which is fruit-based with a variety of flavors. Additionally, you can offer insects occasionally, especially for younger geckos who need the extra protein.

Are there any optional extras that can enhance the crested gecko tank setup?

Optional extras include a rain system, drippers, or foggers to increase humidity, and a USB desk fan to help with airflow and cooling in warmer months. These can help create a more comfortable environment for your gecko, but they are not essential.