Sarasinorum Gecko Care Sheet
Description
Scientific Name : Correlophus sarasinorum
Common Name : Sarasinorum Gecko
Origins : New Caledonia
Behaviour : Crepuscular
Easy Of Care : Intermediate
Life Span : 15 – 20 Years +
About Sarasinorum Geckos
Sarasinorum geckos (Correlophus sarasinorum) are a rare and fascinating arboreal gecko species native to New Caledonia. Closely related to crested geckos (Correlophus ciliatus), they share many similar care requirements but display several unique physical and behavioural traits that set them apart.
Often referred to as “giant crested geckos,” Sarasinorum geckos are larger and more elongated than their crested relatives, typically reaching 20–25cm in total length. They have a more slender body shape, longer limbs, and a fully prehensile tail, which they actively use for gripping branches and stabilising themselves when climbing.
Their appearance is generally more subtle than crested geckos, with natural tones of brown, grey, olive, and cream. While they lack the bold morph variety seen in crested geckos, they make up for it with their impressive size, strong build, and striking presence within a well-designed enclosure.
In the wild, Sarasinorum geckos inhabit forested areas where they spend most of their time in trees and dense vegetation. They are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk, although they may also be active at night. Their arboreal nature means they rely heavily on vertical space, climbing structures, and dense cover to feel secure.
In captivity, Sarasinorum geckos are considered moderately difficult to keep compared to more common species like crested or gargoyle geckos. While their environmental requirements are very similar, they are less commonly bred and can be more sensitive to incorrect husbandry, particularly regarding humidity and enclosure setup.
Temperament can vary between individuals. Some Sarasinorum geckos can become relatively calm and tolerate handling, while others may remain more cautious and quick-moving. They are generally more active and agile than crested geckos, which can make handling slightly more challenging.
Like other New Caledonian geckos, Sarasinorum geckos thrive on a diet consisting of commercial fruit-based gecko diets supplemented with live insects. Proper supplementation with calcium and vitamins is essential for maintaining long-term health.
Due to their rarity, unique appearance, and slightly higher care requirements, Sarasinorum geckos are often best suited to keepers with some prior experience in arboreal gecko husbandry. When provided with the correct environment and care, they can become a highly rewarding and impressive species to keep.
Sarasinorum geckos are closely related to crested geckos but have a longer body and prehensile tail.
They reach around 20–25cm in length.
They are less common in captivity but share many husbandry requirements with other New Caledonian geckos.
Set-up / Enclosure
A 45x45x60cm arboreal terrarium is suitable for an adult.
Provide strong branches and vertical climbing surfaces.
Good ventilation is essential.
Decor
Provide plenty of climbing opportunities using:
Branches
Cork bark
Vines
Artificial plants
Bioactive setups can work extremely well for this species.
Lighting
Sarasinorum geckos can benefit from low level UVB lighting.
A 2.4% UVB bulb placed on the mesh top provides appropriate exposure.
Temperature & Humidity
Ambient temperature:
20–24°C
Basking area:
25–27°C
Night temperature:
Not below 18°C
Humidity should remain around 60–80% with daily misting.
Food & Water
Sarasinorum geckos eat fruit diets and insects.
Typical foods include:
Commercial gecko diets
Crickets
Roaches
Calci worms
Silkworms
Replace prepared food every 48 hours.
Handling
Sarasinorum geckos can become tame but are generally more active and jumpy than crested geckos.
Allow them time to settle before attempting regular handling.
Other Gecko Care Sheets
If you are interested in keeping other New Caledonian geckos, you may also find these care guides helpful:
• Sarasinorum Gecko Care Sheet
• Chahoua - Mossy Gecko Care Sheet
Each species has slightly different requirements, but many share similar environmental needs such as moderate temperatures and high humidity.
Health
Health issues are similar to other New Caledonian geckos including:
Stuck shed
MBD
Egg binding
Impaction
Bacterial infections
Maintaining correct humidity, temperatures and nutrition will help prevent most problems.
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