Day Geckos: A Guide to the Phelsuma Genus

The phelsuma genus of geckos is a large one, with many different species commonly referred to as day geckos. These lizards are found in Africa, Madagascar, and the Seychelles islands. They are popular pets because they are easy to care for and come in a variety of colors. In this guide, we will take a closer look at the phelsuma genus and discuss some of the most popular species within it.

The phelsuma genus is made up of small to medium-sized lizards. The majority of species are less than a foot in length, with the largest reaching just over two feet. These lizards have thin bodies and long tails. Their skin is covered in scales that can be a variety of colors, including green, brown, red, and blue. Day geckos are active during the day, which is where they get their name. They are typically found in warm, humid environments such as rainforests.

Phelsuma grandis - a common day gecko as pet today
Phelsuma grandis – a common day gecko as pet today

There are over 100 different species of day geckos in the phelsuma genus. Some of the most popular species include the madagascan day gecko, the giant day gecko, and the red day gecko. The madagascan day gecko is one of the largest species, reaching up to two feet in length. This lizard is green with vertical stripes that can be yellow, white, or pink. The giant day gecko is another large species, reaching up to 18 inches in length. This lizard is bright green with red spots. The red day gecko is the smallest species, reaching just over six inches in length. As its name suggests, this lizard is red with black spots.

Day gecko as a pet

If you are thinking about getting a day gecko as a pet, there are a few things you should know. These lizards are easy to care for and make great pets for first-time reptile owners. They require a warm, humid environment and should be fed insects. Day geckos typically live for six to eight years in captivity.

If you are looking for a fun and easy-to-care-for pet, the phelsuma genus of day geckos is a great option. With over 100 different species to choose from, there is sure to be one that is perfect for you. These lizards are active during the day and come in a variety of colors. They are easy to care for and typically live for six to eight years in captivity. Whether you are a first-time reptile owner or an experienced lizard lover, a day gecko from the phelsuma genus is a great pet option.

List of some known phelsuma (day gecko) species

Below is a list of some currently know species of day geckos (phelsuma). Click on any that you wish to learn more about.

Phelsuma abbotti

Phelsuma andamanensis

Phelsuma antanosy

Phelsuma astriata

Phelsuma barbouri

Phelsuma berghofi

Phelsuma borbonica

Phelsuma breviceps

Phelsuma cepediana

Phelsuma comorensis

Phelsuma dubia

Phelsuma edwardnewtoni

Phelsuma flavigularis

Phelsuma gigas

Phelsuma guentheri

Phelsuma guimbeaui

Phelsuma guttata

Phelsuma grandis (Madagascar giant day gecko)

Phelsuma hielscheri

Phelsuma inexpectata

Phelsuma klemmeri

Phelsuma laticauda

Phelsuma lineata

Phelsuma madagascariensis

Phelsuma malamakibo

Phelsuma masohoala

Phelsuma modesta

Phelsuma mutabilis

Phelsuma nigristriata

Phelsuma ocellata

Phelsuma ornata

Phelsuma parkeri

Phelsuma pronki

Phelsuma pusilla

Phelsuma quadriocellata

Phelsuma robertmertensi

Phelsuma seippi

Phelsuma serraticauda

Phelsuma standingi

Phelsuma sundbergi

Phelsuma v-nigra

Summary

Day geckos are a genus of lizards found in Africa, Madagascar, and the Seychelles islands. These lizards are popular pets because they are easy to care for and come in a variety of colors. In this guide, we will have taken a closer look at the phelsuma genus and discussed some of the most popular species within it.