GECKO BLOOD EMERINE HIGH RED (Eublepharis macularius)

GECKO BLOOD EMERINE HIGH RED (Eublepharis macularius)

Full Description

Here’s a full care guide for the Blood Emerine High Red Leopard Gecko — a striking and highly sought-after morph of Eublepharis macularius known for its deep red-orange body, green hues, and reduced spotting.

Blood Emerine High Red Leopard Gecko Care Guide

Scientific Name: Eublepharis macularius
Morph: Blood Emerine (Blood × Emerine) with enhanced red/orange coloration
Type: Polygenic (line-bred), non-inheritable in simple Mendelian terms

This morph is a combination of the Blood line (deep red/orange from The Urban Gecko) and Emerine (green + tangerine influence), selectively bred for extreme red saturation and minimal patterning.

Morph Profile

Trait Description
Coloration Bright tangerine to deep red body, sometimes with green tints near the limbs or tail base
Pattern Varies: striped, banded, or nearly patternless depending on line
Genetics Polygenic (line-bred); not a single-gene morph
Behavior Typical of leopard geckos — calm and terrestrial

Size & Lifespan

Feature Range
Length 7–10 in (18–25 cm)
Weight 50–90g
Lifespan 15–20 years (in captivity)

Enclosure Setup

Tank Size

Age Group Tank Size
Hatchling 10–15 gallons
Adult 20–40 gallon breeder

Floor space is more important than height.

Substrate Options

  • ✅ Safe:

    • Slate or ceramic tile

    • Paper towel (ideal for juveniles or quarantine)

    • Reptile carpet

    • Bioactive with clay/soil/sand mix (advanced)

  • ❌ Avoid:

    • Loose dry sand

    • Calcium sand

    • Bark chips or wood mulch (impaction risk)

Hides (Minimum 3)

Hide Type Function
Warm Hide Thermoregulation
Cool Hide Security
Moist Hide Aids shedding (coco fiber, sphagnum moss)

Decor

  • Naturalistic rocks, logs, foliage

  • Clutter = security for shy individuals

  • Light-diffusing decor helps preserve color and reduce stress

️ Temperature & Humidity

Zone Temperature (°F) Temperature (°C)
Warm Side 88–92°F 31–33°C
Cool Side 75–80°F 24–27°C
Nighttime 68–75°F 20–24°C
Humidity 30–40% (ambient), 70–80% in moist hide

Heating

  • Under Tank Heater (UTH) controlled by a thermostat is crucial

  • Avoid basking bulbs (can cause stress and dull color)

Lighting

Type Details
UVB Optional (2.0–5.0 for diurnal benefit)
Day/Night Cycle 12 hours on / 12 hours off
Bright Light Not needed — use low ambient lighting

️ Diet & Supplements

Primary Feeders (gut-loaded)

Insect Notes
Dubia Roaches High in protein
Crickets Active and accessible
BSF Larvae Great calcium source
Mealworms OK in moderation
Superworms Occasional (high fat)
Waxworms Rare treat only

Feeding Frequency

Age Frequency
Juveniles Daily
Adults Every 2–3 days

Supplement Schedule

Supplement Frequency
Calcium (no D3) Always in tank
Calcium + D3 1–2× per week
Multivitamin 1× per week

Dust feeders and gut-load 24 hours before offering.

Enclosure Maintenance

Task Frequency
Spot clean Daily
Replace water Daily
Deep clean Monthly (or as needed)

⚠️ Morph-Specific Notes

Concern Recommendation
Color Fading Avoid strong UV/basking bulbs; use ambient light
Selective Breeding Only buy from reputable breeders (quality lines)
Overheating Monitor heat to prevent stress or appetite loss

These geckos look their best in moderate lighting. Harsh exposure can dull their vivid reds and oranges over time.

Handling Tips

Tip Why
Wait 1–2 weeks post-arrival Reduces stress, allows settling in
Handle in evening They’re crepuscular
Use gentle, slow motions Builds trust and reduces skittishness
Limit session to 10 mins Prevents overheating or stress

✅ Quick Checklist

✔ 20–40 gallon long tank
✔ Under-tank heater with thermostat
✔ 3 hides (warm, cool, moist)
✔ Gut-loaded insect diet
✔ Supplements: calcium + D3 + multivitamin
✔ Low lighting or ambient light
✔ Daily spot cleaning
✔ Color-conscious husbandry (no excessive light/heat)

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