Photo Disclaimer
Description
Kochi Day Gecko
Scientific Name: Phelsuma madagascariensis kochi
Common Name: Kochi Day Gecko
Species Overview
Size: Adult Kochi Day Geckos typically reach 8–10 inches (20–25 cm) in total length, making them one of the larger members of the Phelsuma genus. They are slender yet muscular geckos with broad toe pads, well-adapted for climbing smooth vertical surfaces.
Appearance: The Kochi Day Gecko displays a bright green to blue-green body with faint red or orange markings along the head and back, though these may vary in intensity depending on mood, lighting, and individual variation. The underside is pale yellow or cream-coloured, and the tail often carries subtle striping or faint mottling. Their eyes are large, round, and golden-grey, reflecting their diurnal habits. Compared to other Phelsuma madagascariensis subspecies, Kochi Day Geckos tend to exhibit smoother overall colouring with less red patterning.
Distribution: Native to northwestern Madagascar, where they inhabit dry forests, open woodlands, and human dwellings.
Habitat: In the wild, Kochi Day Geckos live on large tree trunks, bamboo, and sometimes building walls, thriving in warm, moderately humid regions. In captivity, they do well in tall, well-ventilated enclosures with abundant vertical surfaces, climbing branches, and hardy live plants such as Ficus, Dracaena, or Sansevieria.
Behaviour: This species is diurnal, active, and territorial. Males are especially defensive toward one another and should never be housed together. They are quick and alert, using both speed and camouflage to evade threats. Though strikingly beautiful, they are best observed as display animals rather than handled pets.
Captive Care
Enclosure: Provide a vertical terrarium measuring at least 18 inches × 18 inches × 24 inches (45 × 45 × 60 cm) for a single adult. Include ample climbing structures, cork bark, bamboo sections, and foliage for cover. Ensure secure ventilation and a tight-fitting lid, as these geckos are adept escape artists.
Temperature & Humidity: Maintain daytime temperatures between 78–86°F (26–30°C) with a basking area around 90°F (32°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop to 70–75°F (21–24°C). Keep humidity between 60–75%, achieved through daily misting and live plants. Allow brief drying periods between misting to prevent mould and bacterial growth.
Lighting: Kochi Day Geckos require full-spectrum lighting with a 5–7% UVB output for proper calcium metabolism and basking behaviour. Maintain a 12-hour day/night cycle with bright ambient light and shaded areas for temperature regulation.
Diet: Offer a mixed diet of gut-loaded insects such as crickets, roaches, silkworms, and black soldier fly larvae, along with commercial gecko fruit mixes or puréed fruit blends. Feed juveniles daily and adults every other day. Dust all insect prey with calcium and multivitamin supplements to ensure balanced nutrition.
Behaviour in Captivity: When kept under proper conditions, Kochi Day Geckos are vibrant, active, and hardy. They display natural basking, foraging, and territorial behaviours. They do not tolerate frequent handling but can become confident display animals once established.
Special Considerations: Avoid housing males together and provide plenty of vertical and visual barriers in mixed enclosures. Always ensure proper humidity to prevent shedding issues and provide natural perches to encourage climbing and display.
Taxonomy Note
The Kochi Day Gecko (Phelsuma madagascariensis kochi) belongs to the family Gekkonidae and is part of the Madagascar Giant Day Gecko complex. It is closely related to P. m. grandis but differs in its smaller size, reduced red patterning, and preference for drier forest habitats. Like all Phelsuma, it is diurnal and uses specialized adhesive toe pads to climb smooth surfaces.
Genetics Note
There are currently no recognized morphs or selectively bred variations of Phelsuma madagascariensis kochi. Natural variation occurs in colour brightness, pattern clarity, and red marking intensity among individuals, but these differences are due to locality and environmental adaptation rather than selective breeding.