Day gecko (Phelsuma): what a zoo study on a naturalistic exhibit changes about terrarium setup
Published by Planète Pets · managing editor: Clément Lacaille · how our guides are written
A wide but shallow terrarium does not do justice to a day gecko, a natural climber through and through. A study conducted in a large zoo exhibit provides real data on how this species actually uses space when given the choice. Our enrichment guidance is gathered in the reptile toys and enrichment section.
A Zurich Zoo study on a naturalistic giant day gecko exhibit
Furrer, Jaag, von Stockar and Rübel published a study in 2006 in Zoo Biology on first experiences with free-ranging giant day geckos (Phelsuma madagascariensis grandis) in the Masoala rainforest exhibit at Zurich Zoo (see the study). After introducing sixty geckos, the researchers radio-tracked eighteen individuals over three months and measured near-total use of the available space, from the height of planted walls to artificial structures, with some individuals staying put while others covered dozens of metres within a week.
What this changes about terrarium setup
This near-total use of volume, measured in a space far larger than a home terrarium, gives concrete pointers for a richer setup.
- Prioritise height and a variety of supports (branches, vines, planted walls) rather than a single large floor area, so the animal can make use of the full available volume.
- Vary plant species and structure types instead of a uniform layout, since the study measured a clear preference for certain plants and artificial supports.
- Don't worry about a less mobile individual: the study measured wide variation between individuals, with some geckos staying within a small territory without that signalling distress.
This approach builds on the practical guidance in our article on terrarium branches and vines, and pairs with our guide on bioactive terrarium plants, a living decor that directly benefits this arboreal species.
Frequently asked questions
Can a home terrarium replicate a zoo exhibit?
Not at that scale, but the principles still apply: maximise usable height and the diversity of climbing supports rather than floor area alone.
Do live plants matter for this level of enrichment?
Live plants offer texture and humidity that artificial decor cannot fully replicate, but a mix of natural branches and hardy plants remains a solid compromise for a home terrarium.
Does a day gecko need companions to explore this much?
No, the study measured this exploration in a group within a large space, but a single day gecko in a well-furnished terrarium explores its own volume just as actively. Find all our guides on the reptile hub.
An accessory from our shop for this use: Stick-on digital thermometer for aquarium and terrarium glass (€18.90) · the whole shop
This guide is part of Planète Pets’s Reptiles universe. Our advice is general in nature: for any health concern, your veterinarian remains the only reference.