Eurydactylodes agricolae

Vertical arboreal terrarium, planted / bioactive, with numerous thin branches and foliage

A 30x30x45 cm terrarium is suitable for 1 individual or a pair. A tiny species: favour a density of thin perches and plant hideouts over sheer volume. Good ventilation is important but without a drying draught. Very fine mesh/openings: this is a thread-like animal that escapes through the slightest gap.

Light daily misting (especially in the evening) with a dry cycle in between: the terrarium must be able to dry out partially to avoid stagnant air and infections. A humidity peak at night promotes hydration and shedding.

A moisture-retaining substrate (bioactive with drainage) stabilises humidity. For an observation or quarantine setup, paper towel is acceptable. Avoid ingestible fibrous substrates near feeding areas.

Low UVB recommended (Ferguson zone 1, UVI ~1-2; 5-6% tube / low-intensity T5, at a distance). Not strictly mandatory if D3 is provided through the diet, but low UVB improves bone health in the long term. Provide shaded areas.

Hydration mainly via misting droplets on the foliage and the glass. Also provide a small, shallow dish of clean water, renewed daily.

Endemic to New Caledonia (Grande Terre, humid forests and southern maquis scrubland). Protected species: exporting New Caledonian wildlife is prohibited, and the CITES status of New Caledonian geckos should be checked (possible recent listing) — all specimens in captivity are captive-bred, and wild collection is illegal.

Omnivore — Small insects (fruit flies, micro-crickets, young roaches) + fruit purée / powdered gecko diet (CGD)

A very low appetite (food drive) compared to crested geckos: offer small amounts several times a week. Always supplement with calcium (with or without D3 depending on UVB exposure); dust the insects.

Clutch 1–2 eggs/young. Generally 2 eggs per clutch (sometimes 1), with several clutches per season. Slow incubation at a cool temperature, ~55-90 days around 22-24 °C (do not overheat). Reminder: all available breeders are captive-bred (wild collection/export prohibited).

• Metabolic bone disease (MBD) from calcium / vitamin D3 deficiency
• Dehydration and dysecdysis (retained shed, especially at the tips of the toes and tail)
• Egg retention / dystocia in females (often linked to a calcium deficiency)
• Respiratory infections (an environment that is too cold, too damp or stagnant)
• Chronic stress and loss of appetite (overheating, excessive handling, an overly exposed environment)