GECKO SMOOTH KNOB-TAILED (Nephrurus levis levis) PAIR

GECKO SMOOTH KNOB-TAILED (Nephrurus levis levis) PAIR

Full Description

Here’s a detailed care guide for the Smooth Knob-Tailed Gecko (Nephrurus levis)—a fascinating, small Australian desert gecko with a distinctive “knob” at the end of its tail and charming, bold personality.

Smooth Knob-Tailed Gecko Care Guide

Quick Facts:

  • Scientific Name: Nephrurus levis

  • Lifespan: 10–15 years in captivity

  • Adult Size: 4–5.5 inches

  • Temperament: Bold, vocal, and handleable with care

  • Native Range: Arid and semi-arid regions of Australia

Enclosure

Size:

  • Single adult: 10–20 gallon long tank (minimum 18″x12″x12″)

  • Pairs: 20–30 gallon (monitor carefully—females may cohabitate; males must be housed separately)

Enclosure Type:

  • Terrestrial; prioritize floor space over height

  • Secure lid (though they’re not great climbers)

️ Temperature & Heating

Basking Spot:

  • 92–95°F (33–35°C) on the warm side

  • Use under-tank heating pad with thermostat or heat lamp

Cool Side:

  • 75–80°F (24–27°C)

Night Temp:

  • Can drop to 68–72°F (20–22°C)

Lighting:

  • No UVB required, but a low-output UVB (2.0 or 5.0) is optional and may promote natural behavior

  • Provide a consistent light cycle (12 hours on/off)

Substrate & Decor

Recommended Substrate:

  • Clay/sand mix (excavator clay, red desert blend)

  • Mimics natural habitat and supports burrowing

Avoid:

  • Loose dry sand alone (impaction risk)

  • Calci-sand

Enclosure Decor:

  • Hides (one on warm side, one on cool side)

  • Rocks, cork bark, fake or real desert-safe plants

  • Moist hide with damp sphagnum moss or paper towel

Humidity & Water

  • Humidity: Low (30–40%)

  • Provide a moist hide to aid shedding

  • Water Dish: Shallow, fresh water available at all times

️ Diet

These geckos are insectivores.

Staple Feeders:

  • Crickets

  • Dubia roaches

  • Black soldier fly larvae

Occasional Treats:

  • Mealworms or waxworms (high in fat)

  • Small hornworms

Feeding Schedule:

  • Juveniles: Daily

  • Adults: 3–4x per week

Supplements:

  • Calcium with D3: 2x/week

  • Multivitamin: 1x/week

  • Lightly dust feeders—do not over-supplement

Maintenance

  • Spot clean feces and uneaten insects daily

  • Replace substrate every 1–2 months (or more often if soiled)

  • Disinfect hides and water dishes weekly

Handling & Temperament

  • Usually bold and curious, but may vocalize or tail-wag when stressed

  • Can be handled gently and infrequently once acclimated

  • Never grab by the tail—it can drop, though it will regrow

Health Issues to Watch For

  • Shedding issues: Provide a moist hide

  • Impaction: Avoid loose sand; feed appropriate-size insects

  • Dehydration: Check for wrinkled skin or lethargy

  • Parasites: Get fecals checked by a vet if wild-caught or symptomatic

✅ Supplies Checklist

  • 10–20 gallon tank with secure lid

  • Heat mat or ceramic heater + thermostat

  • Digital thermometer + humidity gauge

  • Clay/sand mix substrate

  • 2–3 hides (cool, warm, and moist)

  • Shallow water dish

  • Feeding tongs

  • Dusting supplements (calcium, multivitamin)

  • Insect feeders

The Smooth Knob-Tailed Gecko is a unique, desert-dwelling species ideal for intermediate keepers looking for a manageable, quirky, and visually interesting reptile. With the right arid environment and gentle care, they thrive in captivity and often develop entertaining personalities.

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