Eurydactylodes are a group of small, arboreal geckos endemic to New Caledonia. Four species are kept in captivity — E. agricolae, E. symmetricus, E. vieilloti, and E. occidentalis. Often called “Eurys” in the hobby, they are fascinating, active little geckos that reward keepers who pay attention to their specific needs. Despite their small size, they require a well-structured, naturalistic setup to thrive.
Back to the Eurydactylodes Care Sheet | Gecko Care Hub
Enclosure Size
- Single adult or pair: A minimum of 30x30x45cm is recommended. Taller is better — Eurys are active climbers and use vertical space extensively.
- Groups or breeding setups: 45x30x60cm or larger gives adequate space and allows better territorial division.
- Juveniles: Small deli cups or 15x15x30cm enclosures are suitable for hatchlings and young juveniles, making monitoring and feeding much easier.
- Cohabitation: Eurydactylodes can be kept in pairs or small groups but must be monitored closely — males are territorial and should not be housed together. Female-only groups or one male with one or more females can work in adequate space.
Enclosure Types
- Small front-opening glass terrariums — ideal. Look for enclosures with fine mesh ventilation panels as Eurys are very small and can escape through large gaps.
- Arboreal-style acrylic enclosures — work well for smaller setups. Check all seams and lid closures carefully.
- Bioactive vivariums — highly recommended. Eurydactylodes thrive in well-planted bioactive setups and benefit greatly from the naturalistic environment and stable microclimate a mature bioactive system provides.
Substrate
A moisture-retaining, naturalistic substrate is ideal. A bioactive mix of topsoil, coconut fibre, and fine orchid bark works well and supports live plants. Leaf litter on the surface provides cover and enrichment. For younger animals or quarantine setups, paper towel is a safe, easy-to-monitor option.
Hides and Décor
Eurydactylodes are secretive and spend much of the day hidden. A well-planted, densely decorated enclosure is essential for their wellbeing.
- Fine cork bark flats and small cork tubes — Eurys love to hide behind and within cork bark
- Dense live or artificial plants — pothos, bromeliads, small ficus, and tropical groundcover plants all work well
- Thin branches and vines at varying heights for climbing and perching
- Leaf litter on the substrate surface for ground-level cover
- Small feeding dishes placed at a mid or elevated position
Ventilation
Good airflow is important to prevent stagnant, bacteria-prone conditions, but Eurydactylodes require moderate to high humidity. A fine mesh top with partially covered sides or a PVC enclosure with cross-ventilation strikes the right balance. Monitor humidity with a digital hygrometer and adjust misting accordingly.
Escape Prevention
Eurydactylodes are very small and excellent climbers. Check all lids, seams and ventilation panels carefully — gaps that seem negligible can be an escape route for a small Eury. Spring-loaded or magnetic lid closures are recommended.
Cleaning and Maintenance
- Spot clean droppings and uneaten food every 1–2 days
- Replace water every day
- Bioactive setups require minimal intervention once established — top up substrate and leaf litter as needed
- Non-bioactive setups: full substrate change every 2–3 months
Next Steps
Once your enclosure is set up, learn about the Eurydactylodes diet in our Eurydactylodes Diet guide.