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Description
Halmahera Giant Gecko
Scientific Name: Gehyra marginata
Common Name: Halmahera Giant Gecko, Halmahera Smooth Gecko
Species Overview
Size: Adult Halmahera Giant Geckos typically reach 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) in total length, making them one of the largest Gehyra species. They have robust bodies, broad heads, and strong limbs, with wide adhesive toe pads adapted for climbing.
Appearance: The Halmahera Giant Gecko is an impressive, smooth-skinned species displaying a range of soft grey, brown, and lavender hues with subtle mottling across the back and sides. Their skin has a silky, almost translucent texture, often with faint bluish or pink undertones that show under light. The eyes are large and expressive, typically silver-grey with vertical pupils. The tail is thick and muscular, capable of regeneration if dropped. While less vividly coloured than some geckos, their soft tones and gentle sheen give them a striking, understated beauty.
Distribution: Native to Halmahera Island, part of the Maluku (Moluccas) Islands of Indonesia, where they inhabit humid tropical forests and coastal areas.
Habitat: In the wild, these geckos live among tree trunks, under loose bark, and in forested areas near human dwellings. They are nocturnal and arboreal, preferring warm, humid environments with vertical surfaces for climbing. In captivity, they thrive in tall, naturalistic setups that provide both humidity and ventilation.
Behaviour: Halmahera Giant Geckos are nocturnal and shy but curious. They are capable climbers and can move quickly when startled. While calm when left undisturbed, they should be considered display animals, as handling can stress them and damage their delicate skin. They are generally less aggressive than Tokay Geckos, though males may still defend territory.
Captive Care
Enclosure: Provide a vertically oriented enclosure measuring at least 18 inches × 18 inches × 36 inches (45 × 45 × 90 cm) for one adult. A larger enclosure is recommended for pairs. Include vertical cork bark, driftwood, and sturdy plants for climbing and shelter. A naturalistic setup with live vegetation helps maintain humidity and offers security.
Temperature & Humidity: Maintain daytime temperatures between 78–84°F (25–29°C) with a basking area around 88°F (31°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop to 72–74°F (22–23°C). Keep humidity between 70–90%, achieved through daily misting and the use of live plants or a moisture-retentive substrate. Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent mould.
Lighting: Provide moderate UVB lighting (5–7%) on a 12-hour day/night cycle. Although nocturnal, this species benefits from low-level UV exposure for calcium metabolism and maintaining a natural light rhythm.
Diet: Offer a diet of gut-loaded insects such as crickets, roaches, silkworms, and soldier fly larvae. Adults may also accept occasional soft fruit mixtures or commercial fruit-nectar gecko diets. Dust all insects with calcium and multivitamin supplements regularly. Feed juveniles daily and adults every 2–3 days.
Behaviour in Captivity: With consistent care, Halmahera Giant Geckos become steady, visible, and active during the evening hours. They adapt well to well-structured enclosures and are best kept as display animals rather than handled pets. Their soft coloration and gentle movements make them excellent centrepieces in tropical terrariums.
Special Considerations: Avoid handling and sudden movements within the enclosure, as their skin is delicate and tears easily. Maintain stable humidity without waterlogging the substrate. Always regulate heat sources with a thermostat to ensure safe temperatures.
Taxonomy Note
The Halmahera Giant Gecko (Gehyra marginata) belongs to the family Gekkonidae and is closely related to the New Guinea Giant Gecko (Gehyra vorax). Members of the Gehyra genus are characterized by smooth, velvety skin and large adhesive pads suited for humid, arboreal habitats. G. marginata is distinguished from its relatives by its slightly smaller size, finer texture, and more subtle colouration.
Genetics Note
There are currently no recognized morphs or selectively bred colour variants of Gehyra marginata. However, wild individuals may show minor regional variation in tone, with some appearing warmer brown and others more grey or lavender. These differences are natural locality traits rather than genetic morphs.