| Scientific Name | Mniarogekko chahoua |
| Common Name | Chahoua Gecko / Mossy Gecko |
| Origins | New Caledonia |
| Behaviour | Crepuscular (most active at dawn and dusk) |
| Ease of Care | Intermediate |
| Lifespan | 15 – 20+ years |
Detailed Care Guides
Looking for more in-depth guidance? We’ve put together dedicated subtopic pages covering every aspect of Chahoua care:
- Chahoua Gecko Enclosure Setup — tank size, enclosure types, substrate, hides and décor
- Chahoua Gecko Diet — CGD brands, live feeders and supplements
- Chahoua Gecko Feeding Schedule — how often to feed by age group
- Chahoua Gecko Temperature & Humidity — ideal ranges, misting routines and seasonal variation
- Chahoua Gecko Lighting — UVB guidance and day/night cycles
- Chahoua Gecko Handling — taming tips, stress signals and safe handling
About Chahoua Geckos
Chahoua Geckos (Mniarogekko chahoua), also known as Mossy Geckos, are a highly sought-after New Caledonian species beloved for their striking bark-like camouflage, stocky build, and calm, handleable temperament. They reach approximately 20–25cm in total length and are considered one of the most rewarding gecko species to keep, combining impressive looks with manageable care requirements.
Chahoua geckos have a prehensile tail adapted for gripping vines and branches — an important feature to bear in mind when furnishing their enclosure. They are best kept alone, as cohabiting can lead to fighting and competition for food and resources.
Chahoua geckos can drop their tails as a defence mechanism. Unlike crested geckos, Chahoua tails sometimes partially regenerate — this is more commonly observed in mainland Chahoua than in Pine Island animals. Tails that do not regenerate heal into a neat stump. Keeping your gecko separately from others greatly reduces the risk of tail loss.
Enclosure
Chahoua geckos are arboreal and require a tall, vertically oriented terrarium. The minimum recommended size for an adult is 45x45x60cm. Glass terrariums with front-opening doors and good mesh ventilation are ideal, supporting both airflow and the higher humidity these geckos require. Juveniles and hatchlings should be started in smaller enclosures to make monitoring feeding and growth easier.
Decor
A well-furnished enclosure is essential for your Chahoua gecko’s wellbeing, not just aesthetics. These geckos need plenty of climbing opportunities and secure hides to feel comfortable. Cork bark tubes are a particular favourite — they provide excellent hiding spots and the rough texture assists with shedding. Complement with vines, branches, and artificial or live plants. Chahoua geckos thrive in bioactive setups, which also help maintain consistent humidity levels naturally.
Lighting
Chahoua geckos are crepuscular but benefit from low-level UVB lighting. They fall within Ferguson Zone 2, meaning they require a UVI of 0.7–1.0 (with a maximum of 1.1–3.0 in any basking zone). A 2.4% UVB bulb placed on the mesh top of the terrarium will provide an appropriate UV gradient within the enclosure.
Temperature & Humidity
Chahoua geckos thrive at ambient temperatures of 20°C – 24°C and do not typically require additional heating in UK homes. If a basking spot is provided, it should not exceed 25°C – 27°C. Night temperatures should not drop below 18°C.
Humidity should be maintained at around 60–80%. Mist the enclosure once or twice daily — once in cooler months, twice in warmer months. Always allow the enclosure to partially dry out between mistings to prevent bacterial growth. A hygrometer is recommended to monitor humidity accurately.
→ Full Temperature & Humidity Guide
Feeding
Chahoua geckos eat a combination of fruit-based MRP (meal replacement powder) diets and live insects.
MRP Diets: Mix the powder with water to a smooth consistency and serve in a feeding cup or ledge. Replace every 24–48 hours. MRP diets from brands such as Pangea, Repashy, and Gecko Nutrition are nutritionally complete and can be used as the sole diet — no live insects are required as a staple.
Live Insects: Chahoua geckos can also be offered gut-loaded live insects as a supplement. Suitable feeder insects include crickets, calci-worms, locusts, waxworms, silkworms, and roaches. Always feed insects no larger than the gap between your gecko’s eyes. All live food should be dusted with a quality calcium and vitamin D3 supplement before feeding.
Water: Chahoua geckos will often drink water droplets from leaves after misting. A small water bowl should also be provided at all times to ensure constant access to fresh water.
→ Full Diet Guide | Feeding Schedule
Handling
When introducing your Chahoua gecko to its new home, leave it undisturbed for 3–4 weeks to settle in and begin feeding confidently. Hatchlings can be flighty initially but generally calm with regular, patient handling. Chahoua geckos can sometimes display territorial behaviour inside their enclosure, but once out they are typically calm and easy to handle. Keep sessions short at first and build gradually.
Health & Common Issues
- Stuck Shed: Usually caused by insufficient humidity. Address promptly by increasing misting frequency and providing a humid hide.
- Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): Caused by calcium or vitamin D3 deficiency. Symptoms include jaw deformities, limb weakness, and muscle tremors. Prevented by correct supplementation and appropriate UVB lighting.
- Egg Binding (Dystocia): Can occur in females with low calcium or fat reserves. If you suspect your gecko is struggling to pass eggs, contact a reptile vet immediately.
- Bacterial & Fungal Infections: Usually a result of poor husbandry or an unclean enclosure. If you notice unusual spots, discolouration, or lethargy, seek veterinary advice promptly.
- Impaction: Uncommon but possible, particularly in small juveniles kept on loose substrate such as coconut fibre. Monitor young geckos closely.
Important: This guide is for general husbandry information and isn’t a substitute for veterinary advice. If your gecko is unwell, contact a qualified reptile/exotics veterinarian.
Salmonella Notice: Like all reptiles, Chahoua geckos can carry Salmonella. Always wash hands thoroughly before and after handling your gecko or cleaning their enclosure.
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