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Description
Common Leaf-tail Gecko
Scientific Name: Uroplatus fimbriatus
Common Name: Common Leaf-tail Gecko, Giant Leaf-tail Gecko
Species Overview
Size: Adult Common Leaf-tail Geckos typically reach 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) in total length, making them the largest species in the Uroplatus genus. They possess slender, laterally flattened bodies, large eyes, and broad tails that perfectly mimic the shape and texture of decaying leaves.
Appearance: The Common Leaf-tail Gecko is a master of camouflage, blending seamlessly with tree bark and foliage. Its colouration ranges from mottled grey and brown to olive, tan, or reddish hues, with intricate patterns that replicate moss, lichen, or leaf veins. The body and head edges are lined with small, fringed projections that diffuse light and eliminate visible outlines—an adaptation that makes this species virtually invisible when resting on a surface. The eyes are large and lidless, featuring marbled silver, gold, or bronze tones with vertical pupils. The flattened, leaf-shaped tail may have notches or tears, further enhancing the illusion of a dead leaf.
Distribution: Endemic to Madagascar, where it inhabits the island’s eastern rainforests, particularly in humid, heavily vegetated regions.
Habitat: In the wild, these geckos live among the trunks and branches of tropical rainforest trees. They are nocturnal and rely on their camouflage for both hunting and protection. In captivity, they thrive in tall, naturalistic enclosures that maintain high humidity, dense plant cover, and good ventilation.
Behaviour: Common Leaf-tail Geckos are nocturnal, arboreal, and rely on stealth and camouflage rather than speed. When threatened, they may flatten their bodies against bark, open their mouths to expose a bright pink interior, or drop their tails. They are best appreciated as display animals and should not be handled frequently due to their delicate skin and stress sensitivity.
Captive Care
Enclosure: Provide a vertically oriented enclosure measuring at least 18 inches × 18 inches × 36 inches (45 × 45 × 90 cm) for a single adult. Include plenty of cork bark, driftwood, and live or artificial foliage for climbing and concealment. A bioactive or naturalistic setup with live plants such as ficus, philodendron, and pothos helps maintain humidity and stability.
Temperature & Humidity: Maintain daytime temperatures between 75–82°F (24–28°C) and nighttime drops to 68–72°F (20–22°C). Avoid temperatures above 85°F (29°C). Keep humidity between 70–90%, achieved through twice-daily misting and the use of live vegetation. Ensure good airflow to prevent stagnant moisture.
Lighting: Provide low to moderate UVB lighting (2–7%) on a 12-hour day/night cycle. Although nocturnal, this species benefits from low-level UVB exposure and ambient daylight for natural circadian regulation and bone health.
Diet: Offer a variety of gut-loaded insects including crickets, roaches, silkworms, and black soldier fly larvae. Waxworms and hornworms can be given occasionally as treats. Dust all feeders with calcium and multivitamin supplements. Juveniles should be fed daily, while adults can be fed every 2–3 days.
Behaviour in Captivity: Common Leaf-tail Geckos are quiet and cautious, preferring to remain motionless during the day. At night, they become active and hunt methodically. With proper care, they adapt well to captivity and can live 10–15 years.
Special Considerations: Avoid handling except when necessary, as their skin tears easily. Maintain consistent humidity and provide abundant vertical space. Always regulate heating with a thermostat and ensure misting is balanced with ventilation to prevent mould growth.
Taxonomy Note
The Common Leaf-tail Gecko (Uroplatus fimbriatus) belongs to the family Gekkonidae and is part of the Uroplatus genus—an endemic group of Malagasy geckos renowned for their extreme camouflage and leaf-like tails. U. fimbriatus is the largest and one of the most recognizable species, distinguished by its broad, flattened body and pronounced skin fringes.
Genetics Note
There are currently no formally recognized morphs of Uroplatus fimbriatus. However, natural colour variation occurs, with individuals displaying lighter or darker tones depending on region and environment. Minor pattern and tone differences may occur between localities, often influenced by ambient light, humidity, and temperature.