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Description
Lined Day Gecko
Scientific Name: Phelsuma lineata lineata
Common Name: Lined Day Gecko, Madagascar Lined Day Gecko
Species Overview
Size: Adult Lined Day Geckos typically reach 4–5.5 inches (10–14 cm) in total length, including the tail. They are small, slender geckos with smooth scales and agile movements, well-suited to life among foliage and bamboo.
Appearance: The Lined Day Gecko is a bright, vibrant species with a striking green base colour and a pair of thin reddish-brown or rust-coloured lines extending from the snout through the eyes and along the sides of the body. The back may feature faint red or orange speckling, particularly in males, while the underside is pale yellow or cream. The eyes are round, expressive, and well-adapted to bright daylight. Their slender tails and delicate limbs make them excellent climbers.
Distribution: Native to Madagascar, where they are found primarily along the eastern coast and surrounding regions.
Habitat: In the wild, Lined Day Geckos inhabit tropical rainforests, coastal scrublands, and areas with dense vegetation. They are often seen on bamboo, banana plants, and building walls. In captivity, they thrive in tall, humid enclosures with abundant climbing surfaces, greenery, and natural light.
Behaviour: This species is diurnal and highly active, spending most of its time climbing and basking. Males are territorial and will defend their space vigorously, so they should not be housed together. While quick and easily startled, Lined Day Geckos are excellent display animals, showcasing vibrant colour and lively behaviour under proper lighting conditions.
Captive Care
Enclosure: Provide a vertically oriented terrarium measuring at least 18 inches × 18 inches × 24 inches (45 × 45 × 60 cm) for a pair or single adult. Include vertical branches, bamboo tubes, and dense live plants such as Pothos, Ficus, or Dracaena. Ensure secure ventilation and a tight-fitting lid, as these geckos are agile and can climb glass.
Temperature & Humidity: Maintain daytime temperatures between 78–86°F (26–30°C) with a basking area reaching 90°F (32°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop to 70–74°F (21–23°C). Keep humidity between 60–80%, maintained through daily misting and live vegetation. Allow partial drying between misting to prevent mould and encourage natural activity.
Lighting: Lined Day Geckos require strong full-spectrum lighting, including UVB (5–7%) to support calcium metabolism and vibrant coloration. Maintain a 12-hour day/night cycle and provide both bright basking spots and shaded areas for self-regulation.
Diet: Offer a mixed diet of small, gut-loaded insects such as crickets, roaches, and black soldier fly larvae, supplemented with commercial gecko fruit or nectar diets. Feed juveniles daily and adults every other day. Dust all insects with calcium and multivitamin supplements regularly.
Behaviour in Captivity: Lined Day Geckos are energetic and bold once settled, often seen basking or exploring their enclosure. With consistent care, they become confident feeders and display striking colours under natural or artificial light. Handling should be avoided, as their delicate skin and tails can be easily damaged.
Special Considerations: Avoid housing males together. Provide numerous climbing and visual barriers to reduce stress in shared enclosures. Maintain stable humidity and proper lighting for health and shedding. Always use natural décor and live plants to encourage natural behaviour.
Taxonomy Note
The Lined Day Gecko (Phelsuma lineata lineata) belongs to the family Gekkonidae and is one of several subspecies within the Phelsuma lineata group found across Madagascar. It is closely related to other small day geckos such as Phelsuma laticauda (Gold Dust Day Gecko) but is distinguished by its twin lateral lines and slimmer body profile. All Phelsuma species are diurnal and possess adhesive toe pads for climbing smooth surfaces.
Genetics Note
There are no recognized morphs of Phelsuma lineata lineata in captivity. However, natural variation occurs in line thickness, coloration intensity, and red speckling depending on the locality and environmental conditions. These differences are naturally occurring rather than selectively bred traits.