Centralian Rough Knob-Tailed Gecko (Nephrurus amyae)

Centralian Rough Knob-tailed Gecko

Scientific Name: Nephrurus amyae
Common Name: Centralian Rough Knob-tailed Gecko

Species Overview

Size: Adult Centralian Rough Knob-tailed Geckos typically reach 5–6 inches (13–15 cm) in total length, including the tail. They are sturdy, broad-headed geckos with thick limbs and the signature short, rounded “knob” tail characteristic of the genus.

Appearance: The Centralian Rough Knob-tailed Gecko has a heavily textured, granular body surface with a wide, wedge-shaped head and bold, earthy coloration. Base colours range from sandy tan to deep reddish-orange or rust, often speckled with lighter cream or pale spots that provide excellent camouflage in desert environments. The large eyes have vertical pupils and appear silvery-gold under light. Their short, bumpy tails store fat and serve as both a defensive decoy and energy reserve.

Distribution: Endemic to central Australia, particularly in Northern Territory and northern South Australia, where they inhabit arid desert and rocky scrubland regions within the Central Ranges.

Habitat: In the wild, Centralian Rough Knob-tailed Geckos live among rocky outcrops and sandy flats, sheltering in shallow burrows or under stones during the day. In captivity, they thrive in warm, dry enclosures that replicate these arid conditions with firm substrate, low hides, and rough textures for shedding.

Behaviour: These geckos are nocturnal and terrestrial, known for their calm yet alert demeanour. When threatened, they may raise their body slightly, wave their tail, or emit a short bark-like sound—an iconic defensive behaviour within the genus Nephrurus. Though bold for their size, they remain gentle and tolerate minimal handling once accustomed.

Captive Care

Enclosure: Provide a terrestrial enclosure of at least 24 inches × 18 inches × 12 inches (60 × 45 × 30 cm) for one adult. Use a compact soil-sand or clay-based substrate that allows burrowing and helps maintain slight moisture gradients. Include rock formations, bark hides, and a textured surface to aid shedding.

Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a basking area around 90–95°F (32–35°C) with an ambient gradient from 75–85°F (24–29°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop safely to 68–72°F (20–22°C). Keep humidity low, around 30–40%, but provide one slightly humid hide to support proper shedding.

Lighting: Offer low-level UVB lighting (2–5%) on a 12-hour day/night cycle. Although nocturnal, they benefit from low UV exposure for calcium absorption and natural circadian rhythm regulation.

Diet: Feed a varied diet of gut-loaded crickets, roaches, mealworms, and silkworms. Dust all feeders with calcium and multivitamin supplements. Juveniles should be fed daily; adults every 2–3 days.

Behaviour in Captivity: Centralian Rough Knob-tailed Geckos are hardy, responsive, and engaging. They display natural curiosity and are often seen exploring shortly after dusk. With stable care, they adapt readily and can live well over a decade in captivity.

Special Considerations: Avoid excessive humidity, which can cause respiratory issues. Always regulate heating with a thermostat, and provide multiple hides across the temperature gradient for thermoregulation and security.

Taxonomy Note

The Centralian Rough Knob-tailed Gecko (Nephrurus amyae) belongs to the family Carphodactylidae, a group of geckos endemic to Australia known for their terrestrial lifestyle, thick tails, and vocal behaviours. Within the genus Nephrurus, N. amyae is distinguished by its coarse body texture, robust build, and wide head.

Genetics Note

There are currently no recognized morphs or selectively bred colour variants of Nephrurus amyae. However, natural locality variations exist—some individuals exhibit deeper orange or rust tones, while others appear lighter and sandier. These differences are environmental and naturally occurring rather than genetic morphs.