Vietnamese Cave Gecko (Goniurosaurus araneus)

Scientific Name: Goniurosaurus araneus
Common Name: Vietnamese Cave Gecko

Species Overview

Size: Adults typically reach 8 to 9 inches (20 to 23 cm) in total length. They are medium-sized, slender geckos with long limbs and a proportionately long tail.

Appearance: The Vietnamese Cave Gecko is strikingly patterned, featuring deep charcoal or black base coloration accented with bold orange, yellow, or reddish bands across the body and tail. The head is broad with vivid reddish-orange eyes, a defining trait of the genus Goniurosaurus. Their skin is smooth and glossy, giving them a jewel-like appearance. The contrast between their dark base colour and bright markings makes them one of the most visually impressive cave gecko species.

Distribution: Native to northern Vietnam, primarily in humid, karst-dominated forest regions.

Habitat: In the wild, this species inhabits humid forest floors, limestone caves, rocky crevices, and shaded leaf litter. They are strongly associated with moist, cool microhabitats. In captivity, they thrive in enclosures with high humidity, abundant hiding areas, and stable, cooler temperatures.

Behaviour: Vietnamese Cave Geckos are nocturnal, secretive, and deliberate movers. They emerge after dark to forage slowly and methodically. They are generally calm when left undisturbed, but handling should be limited due to their sensitivity to stress.

Captive Care

Enclosure: A terrestrial enclosure measuring at least 24 inches × 18 inches × 24 inches (60 × 45 × 60 cm) is recommended for an adult or pair. Provide rock hides, cork flats, leaf litter, and low branches. A soil, coco-husk, or bioactive substrate supports humidity and natural burrowing behaviour.

Temperature & Humidity: Maintain daytime temperatures of 72 to 78°F (22 to 26°C) with nighttime drops to 68 to 72°F (20 to 22°C). Avoid high heat, as this species is adapted to cooler conditions. Humidity should remain between 70 and 90%, supported by regular misting and moisture-retentive substrate.

Lighting: Provide low UVB (2 to 5%) for 12 hours daily. Although nocturnal, they benefit from mild UV exposure, and structured lighting supports natural cycling. Enclosures should remain shaded and dimly lit overall.

Diet: Offer a varied insect diet including crickets, roaches, silkworms, mealworms, and occasional waxworms or moths. Juveniles should be fed daily; adults can be fed every 2 to 3 days. All prey must be gut-loaded and dusted with calcium and multivitamins. Provide fresh water in a shallow dish.

Behaviour in Captivity: Once acclimated, Vietnamese Cave Geckos are steady, calm nighttime foragers that appreciate secure hiding options. They respond well to stable, cool, humid conditions and make excellent display animals when given dense cover and gentle lighting.

Special Considerations: They are sensitive to overheating and dehydration. Handling should be minimal. Ensure the enclosure maintains consistent humidity without stagnation—good airflow is essential.

Taxonomy Note

The Vietnamese Cave Gecko belongs to the genus Goniurosaurus, often referred to as “cave geckos.” This group is characterised by striking coloration, red eyes, and a preference for cool, humid environments. G. araneus is one of the most vibrant and recognisable species within the genus.

Genetics Note

There are no recognised morphs or selectively bred variants of the Vietnamese Cave Gecko. Natural variation occurs in band thickness and colour vibrancy, but no formal morphs exist within the pet trade.