Lined day gecko (Phelsuma lineata lineata GRAY 1842) is a diurnal subspecies of geckos. It lives in central Madagascar and typically inhabits different trees and houses. The Lined day gecko feeds on insects and nectar.

Scientific synonyms:

• Phelsuma lineatum GRAY 1842
• Phelsuma minuthi BÖRNER 1980 (status uncertain, dubious species)

Description

This lizard belongs to the smallest day geckos. It can reach a total length of about 12 cm. The body colour is dark green. The back is covered with small red dots. A red stripe extends from the nostril to the eye. The green dorsal surface is separated from the white underside by a black lateral stripe.

Distribution

The Lined day gecko inhabits central Madagascar. It is common around the capital city Antananarivo.

Habitat

Phelsuma lineata lineata is often found near human dwellings. It inhabits different trees, fences and buildings

Diet

These day geckos feed on various insects and other invertebrates. They also like to lick soft, sweet fruit, pollen and nectar.

Behaviour

These geckos are most active after the coldests months June-August.

Reproduction

The pairing season is between November and the first weeks of Mai. During this period, the females lay up to 6 pairs of eggs.

Care and maintenance in captivity

These animals should be housed in pairs and need a large, well planted terrarium. The temperature should be about 28°C (locally around 30°C) during the day and drop to around 20°C at night. The humidity should be maintained between 65 and 75%. It is also important to simulate the colder months (lower day temperature) In captivity, these animals can be fed with crickets, wax moth larvae, fruit flies, mealworms and houseflies.

References

1. Henkel, F.-W. and W. Schmidt (1995) Amphibien und Reptilien Madagaskars, der Maskarenen, Seychellen und Komoren. Ulmer Stuttgart. ISBN 3800173239
   
2. McKeown, Sean (1993) The general care and maintenance of day geckos. Advanced Vivarium Systems, Lakeside CA.