Mossy Leaf-tailed Gecko (Uroplatus sikorae)

Mossy Leaf-Tailed Gecko

Scientific Name: Uroplatus sikorae
Common Name: Mossy Leaf-Tailed Gecko, Common Mossy Gecko

Species Overview

Size: Adult Mossy Leaf-Tailed Geckos typically reach 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) in total length, including the tail. They are medium-sized, flat-bodied geckos with extraordinary camouflage that mimics moss, bark, and lichen.

Appearance: The Uroplatus sikorae is a masterpiece of natural disguise. Its body is mottled in shades of green, brown, grey, and cream, often covered with irregular patches and fringed skin flaps that break up its outline. The tail is broad and leaf-like, sometimes bearing notches or a tattered appearance that enhances the illusion of decay. The eyes are large, lidless, and silvery-grey with fine marbling, perfectly adapted for nocturnal vision. The pattern and texture vary widely among individuals, reflecting their habitat’s unique bark and moss composition.

Distribution: Endemic to the rainforests of eastern and central Madagascar, where it occurs across both lowland and montane forest regions.

Habitat: In the wild, Mossy Leaf-Tailed Geckos inhabit humid tropical forests, clinging vertically to tree trunks and branches during the day, blending seamlessly into mossy bark. In captivity, they thrive in tall, naturalistic, and well-ventilated enclosures that maintain stable humidity and provide ample vertical climbing space.

Behaviour: This species is nocturnal, solitary, and highly secretive. During the day, it remains completely still, relying on camouflage to avoid detection. At night, it becomes active, hunting insects with slow, deliberate precision. While calm by nature, they are sensitive to stress and should not be handled. When threatened, they may flatten their bodies and open their mouths to display a reddish interior as a defensive posture.

Captive Care

Enclosure: Provide a vertically oriented terrarium measuring at least 18 inches × 18 inches × 36 inches (45 × 45 × 90 cm) for one adult. Use a naturalistic setup with vertical cork bark, driftwood, and live plants such as Ficus, Pothos, or Philodendron. Ensure adequate airflow to prevent stagnant moisture.

Temperature & Humidity: Maintain daytime temperatures between 72–80°F (22–27°C) with a mild nighttime drop to 68–72°F (20–22°C). Avoid temperatures above 82°F (28°C). Humidity should remain between 70–90%, maintained through daily misting and moisture-retentive substrate. Allow brief drying periods between misting to prevent bacterial growth.

Lighting: Although nocturnal, Mossy Leaf-Tailed Geckos benefit from low-level UVB (2–5%) to support calcium metabolism and a healthy circadian rhythm. Provide a 12-hour light/dark cycle with shaded areas for retreat during the day.

Diet: Offer a varied diet of gut-loaded insects such as crickets, roaches, silkworms, and black soldier fly larvae. Feed adults every 2–3 days and juveniles more frequently. Dust prey with calcium and multivitamin supplements regularly.

Behaviour in Captivity: With proper humidity and minimal disturbance, Uroplatus sikorae adapts well to captivity and exhibits natural hunting and resting behaviours. They are best suited for observation rather than interaction and thrive when environmental conditions are kept consistent.

Special Considerations: This species is sensitive to stress, dehydration, and heat. Avoid handling and ensure a constant supply of moisture through misting and dripping surfaces. Overly dry or stagnant conditions can cause fatal health issues. Provide multiple hides and vertical retreats to promote security.

Taxonomy Note

The Mossy Leaf-Tailed Gecko (Uroplatus sikorae) belongs to the family Gekkonidae and is one of the most recognized species within the Uroplatus genus. It is closely related to Uroplatus fimbriatus and Uroplatus lineatus but is distinguished by its smaller size, tattered tail edge, and bark-like camouflage. The Uroplatus genus represents some of Madagascar’s most specialized arboreal reptiles, evolved for extreme crypsis in rainforest environments.

Genetics Note

There are currently no recognized morphs or selectively bred variants of Uroplatus sikorae. However, natural variation occurs between regional populations, with some individuals showing heavier moss-like texture or different colour tones. These differences are environmentally adapted traits rather than the result of selective breeding.