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Description
Chinese Cave Gecko
Scientific Name: Goniurosaurus hainanensis
Common Name: Chinese Cave Gecko, Hainan Cave Gecko
Species Overview
Size: Adult Chinese Cave Geckos typically reach 7–8 inches (18–20 cm) in total length, including the tail. They are medium-sized, slender-bodied geckos with delicate limbs, long toes, and large, striking eyes adapted for nocturnal vision.
Appearance: The Chinese Cave Gecko is one of the most visually distinctive members of the genus Goniurosaurus. It features a deep violet-black to charcoal body with vivid orange, yellow, or lavender banding across the body and tail. The head is broad and flat, often showing faint marbling or striping. Its large crimson or orange eyes—with vertical pupils—give it an unmistakably exotic look. The tail is banded and often slightly translucent in juveniles. Overall, its rich contrast and vibrant coloration make it a favourite among collectors.
Distribution: Endemic to Hainan Island, China, where it occurs in humid, forested regions with abundant limestone formations and cave systems.
Habitat: In the wild, Chinese Cave Geckos inhabit damp caves, rocky crevices, and forest floors near water sources. They thrive in shaded environments with high humidity and moderate airflow. In captivity, they do best in naturalistic terrariums that replicate these humid, cool microhabitats with hiding places and textured terrain.
Behaviour: These geckos are nocturnal, secretive, and deliberate in their movements. They are calm and non-aggressive but can be shy when first introduced to a new enclosure. With time and stable conditions, they become confident feeders and visible during evening hours.
Captive Care
Enclosure: Provide an enclosure measuring at least 24 inches × 18 inches × 18 inches (60 × 45 × 45 cm) for a single adult. Use a naturalistic setup with rocks, bark, and moss to replicate a cave-like environment. Bioactive or planted enclosures can work well, provided humidity remains stable. A substrate mixture of soil, sand, and clay or coco fibre helps maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a daytime ambient temperature between 75–80°F (24–27°C), with a basking area up to 84°F (29°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop to 68–72°F (20–22°C). Keep humidity between 70–90%, achieved through daily misting and a damp substrate. Ensure moderate airflow to prevent stagnant moisture.
Lighting: Provide low-level UVB lighting (2–5%) on a 12-hour day/night cycle. Although nocturnal, Chinese Cave Geckos benefit from low UV exposure for proper calcium metabolism and natural light cues.
Diet: Feed a variety of gut-loaded insects such as crickets, roaches, and silkworms. Supplement occasionally with small worms or soldier fly larvae. Dust all feeders with calcium and multivitamin supplements regularly. Juveniles should be fed daily, while adults can be fed every 2–3 days.
Behaviour in Captivity: Chinese Cave Geckos are steady and relatively easy to maintain with proper environmental control. They are best appreciated as display animals and often emerge shortly after dusk. They rarely bite and adapt well once their humidity and temperature needs are consistently met.
Special Considerations: This species is sensitive to dryness and heat. Maintain stable humidity and avoid temperatures above 85°F (29°C). Always use thermostats for heating equipment, and provide multiple hides to reduce stress.
Taxonomy Note
The Chinese Cave Gecko (Goniurosaurus hainanensis) belongs to the family Eublepharidae, which includes eyelid geckos such as Leopard Geckos (Eublepharis macularius) and African Fat-tailed Geckos (Hemitheconyx caudicinctus). The genus Goniurosaurus, commonly referred to as “Cave Geckos,” is native to East and Southeast Asia and characterized by terrestrial habits, eyelids, and vibrant colouration. G. hainanensis is closely related to G. bawanglingensis but differs in band placement and overall hue.
Genetics Note
There are currently no recognized morphs or colour variants of Goniurosaurus hainanensis in the reptile trade. However, natural variation occurs within the species—some individuals display wider or more intense orange banding, while others show lavender or reddish tones depending on locality and environmental factors.