Rhacodactylus auriculatus

Vertical arboreal terrarium (height greater than length), abundantly furnished with branches, vines and foliage (real or artificial) for climbing and hiding.

Minimum dimensions given for ONE adult; provide larger if possible. Rear juveniles in a small volume to make feeding easier. Cross-ventilation (mesh) is essential to avoid stagnant humidity. One adult per terrarium (a territorial and sometimes cannibalistic species).

Moderate ambient humidity of 50-60% during the day, rising to 70-80% after the evening misting. Let it dry out partially between two sprayings: constantly high humidity without ventilation promotes respiratory and skin infections.

Avoid fine, dry, ingestible substrates (sand, shavings) that pose an impaction risk, especially in young animals. A substrate that retains a little moisture helps maintain humidity and good sheds.

Not strictly mandatory for this nocturnal species if calcium + vitamin D3 intake through the diet is rigorous. Low-level UVB (T5 tube 5-6%, forest/shade type, at a distance) remains beneficial for metabolism and well-being. Provide shaded areas and respect a day/night photoperiod.

Clean water available at all times in a small, shallow dish. Evening misting: many individuals drink the droplets off the décor. Renew the water daily and clean the dish to limit bacteria.

Endemic to the south of Grande Terre, New Caledonia (South Pacific). A forest-dwelling species from a temperate to warm environment.

Omnivore / Frugivore — Varied insects: crickets, roaches (Blaptica dubia), black soldier fly larvae (calci-worms); occasionally wax moths as a treat. Prey dusted with calcium (with D3 if no UVB).

Diet staple: a complete fruit-paste gecko diet such as CGD (Crested Gecko Diet / Pangea / Repashy), offered 2-3 times a week, supplemented with insects 1-2 times a week. A more carnivorous species than the Crested Gecko, capable of eating small geckos: never house it with smaller conspecifics or other small species.

Clutch 2–2 eggs/young. Generally 2 eggs (sometimes 1) per clutch, with several successive clutches over a breeding season (often every 3-5 weeks). Incubation of about 60-90 days depending on temperature (ideally 22-26 °C; avoid high incubation temperatures). Provide a humid lay box (sphagnum/vermiculite box). A breeding female has increased calcium needs (risk of egg retention and exhaustion).

• Metabolic bone disease (MBD) from a calcium/vitamin D3 deficiency or an unbalanced diet
• Dysecdysis (incomplete sheds), especially on the toes and tail tip, linked to too-low humidity
• Digestive impaction after ingesting unsuitable substrate
• Stomatitis / mouth rot and respiratory infections promoted by stagnant, poorly ventilated humidity
• Egg retention (dystocia) in the female and obesity from overfeeding