Description
The African Velvet Gecko (Homopholis arnoldi) is a rare sight in the hobby from southern/southwestern Africa, particularly southern Zimbabwe. They average about 7 inches in length at adult size. They can be distinguished from Madagascar velvet geckos by the evenly arranged, snakelike scales that adorn their back, instead of small nodules seen in species of Blaesodactylus.
These enigmatic, medium-sized animals are secretive, but tolerate captivity well as long as their needs are met. Large, quick moving insects such as crickets, roaches, and moths are their preferred meals. They have short, powerful jaws that can pack a punch. Preferring a basking temperature of around 25-32C (85-90F), a vertically-oriented tank is best, adorned with plenty of branches and hard, climbable surfaces. Humidity is still debated, but these geckos appreciate swings of up to 80% with daily misting, as long as the tank is allowed to dry.