# Chahoua Gecko / Mossy Prehensile-Tailed Gecko (Mniarogekko chahoua) **URL:** \ **Category:** Lizards\ **Created:** [August 24, 2026, 2:37am UTC](https://reptilecommunity.com/t/chahoua-gecko-mossy-prehensile-tailed-gecko-mniarogekko-chahoua/617 "2026-08-24T02:37:59Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 2\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![ReptileCommunity](https://reptilecommunity.com/user_avatar/reptilecommunity.com/reptilecommunity/32/3_2.png) [@ReptileCommunity](https://reptilecommunity.com/u/ReptileCommunity)\ **Post date:** [August 24, 2026, 2:38am UTC](https://reptilecommunity.com/t/chahoua-gecko-mossy-prehensile-tailed-gecko-mniarogekko-chahoua/617/1 "2026-08-24T02:38:00Z")
# Chahoua Gecko / Mossy Prehensile-Tailed Gecko (_Mniarogekko chahoua_) Care Sheet The Chahoua Gecko (_Mniarogekko chahoua_), commonly known as the Mossy Prehensile-Tailed Gecko, is a distinctive arboreal gecko native to New Caledonia. Its mottled green, brown, grey and cream colouration provides exceptional camouflage against moss-covered bark and lichen. Combined with a robust body, large gripping feet and strongly prehensile tail, this makes the Chahoua one of the most unusual members of the New Caledonian gecko group. Chahoua Geckos are primarily nocturnal and crepuscular. During daylight they commonly rest against cork, branches or inside elevated retreats, becoming considerably more active after dusk. Captive-bred individuals can become relatively confident and often tolerate gentle handling, although they remain capable climbers and powerful jumpers. Unlike some New Caledonian geckos, Chahouas are particularly enthusiastic hunters and generally benefit from a substantial live-invertebrate component alongside a nutritionally complete commercial gecko diet. Successful husbandry centres on a tall, well-furnished enclosure, moderate temperatures, suitable UVB, high but fluctuating humidity, excellent ventilation, plentiful climbing surfaces and a varied balanced diet. ## Quick Facts **Scientific name:** _Mniarogekko chahoua_ **Common names:** Chahoua Gecko, Mossy Prehensile-Tailed Gecko **Family:** Diplodactylidae **Native range:** New Caledonia **Lifestyle:** Arboreal **Activity:** Primarily nocturnal / crepuscular **Adult length:** Approximately 9–12 inches including the tail **Adult weight:** Commonly approximately 40–75 g, with considerable individual variation **Lifespan:** Approximately 15–20+ years with excellent care **Experience level:** Intermediate **Diet:** Omnivorous **Temperament:** Generally manageable but individuals vary **Adult enclosure:** Approximately 18" × 18" × 36" minimum for one adult; 24" × 24" × 36" or larger preferred **Day temperature:** Approximately 22–26°C **Basking area:** Approximately 27–29°C **Night temperature:** Approximately 18–22°C **Humidity:** Approximately 60–80% with regular drying periods **UVB:** Recommended **Handling:** Generally suitable for gentle occasional handling **Social housing:** Individual housing safest ## Taxonomy The Chahoua Gecko was historically placed within the genus _Rhacodactylus_ and may therefore still be encountered under the older scientific name: _ **Rhacodactylus chahoua** _ It is now generally placed in: _ **Mniarogekko chahoua** _ Two forms are commonly discussed within the hobby: - Mainland Chahoua - Pine Island / Isle of Pines Chahoua Animals should be accurately labelled where locality or lineage is known. Responsible breeding should avoid casually mixing established locality lines. ## Natural Distribution Chahoua Geckos are endemic to New Caledonia. This means they occur naturally nowhere else in the world. New Caledonia supports several highly distinctive gecko species, including: - Crested Geckos - Gargoyle Geckos - Giant New Caledonian Geckos - Chahoua Geckos Established captive breeding is therefore particularly important. ## Natural Habitat Chahoua Geckos inhabit humid forest environments. They are strongly arboreal and utilise: - Tree trunks - Branches - Hollows - Bark - Dense vegetation - Forest canopy structure Their mottled colouration allows them to blend remarkably well with bark, moss and lichen. Captive accommodation should provide abundant vertical structure and visual cover. ## Appearance Chahoua Geckos have a robust appearance compared with many other arboreal geckos. Typical features include: - Broad head - Large eyes - Powerful limbs - Adhesive toe pads - Prehensile tail - Mottled camouflage pattern Colouration can include combinations of: - Green - Olive - Brown - Grey - Cream - White - Reddish tones Individual appearance can vary significantly according to genetics, locality and firing state. ## Prehensile Tail One of the Chahoua Gecko’s most distinctive adaptations is its strongly prehensile tail. The tail is used for: - Balance - Climbing - Gripping branches - Stabilisation when jumping It should never be used as a handle. ## Tail Loss Chahoua Geckos are capable of dropping their tails. Unlike Crested Geckos, Chahoua Geckos are capable of regenerating a lost tail to some degree. However, the regenerated tail may differ from the original in appearance. Tail loss should still be avoided through calm handling and appropriate enclosure design. ## Adult Size Adults commonly reach approximately: **9–12 inches total length** including the tail. They are relatively robust geckos and can be surprisingly powerful climbers. ## Lifespan With excellent care, Chahoua Geckos may live approximately: **15–20+ years** Potential owners should plan for a long-term commitment. ## Behaviour Chahoua Geckos are primarily active during the evening and night. Normal behaviour includes: - Climbing - Jumping - Hunting insects - Exploring branches - Resting against bark - Hiding inside cork - Feeding on fruit-based foods During daylight they may remain remarkably motionless and well camouflaged. ## Temperament Captive-bred Chahouas often become relatively manageable. However, individuals vary considerably. Some may be: - Calm - Curious - Confident while others may be: - Nervous - Defensive - Fast - Reluctant to be handled Some individuals may bite if frightened or forcibly restrained. ## Handling Allow newly acquired animals time to settle before beginning routine handling. When handling: - Allow the gecko to walk between your hands - Avoid grabbing - Never pull the tail - Keep sessions brief initially - Handle close to a safe surface Remember that Chahouas can jump unexpectedly. ## Enclosure Size For a single adult: **18" × 18" × 36"** should be regarded as a practical minimum. Where possible: **24" × 24" × 36"** or larger provides considerably better opportunities for: - Climbing - Exercise - Environmental enrichment - Thermal gradients - Dense planting Larger adults particularly benefit from additional space. ## Vertical Space Height is extremely important. Chahoua Geckos are strongly arboreal and should be able to move throughout the enclosure without repeatedly descending to the floor. Provide climbing structure at multiple heights. ## Climbing Structure Suitable furnishings include: - Cork bark - Cork tubes - Natural branches - Vines - Bamboo - Robust live plants - Artificial foliage Provide a mixture of: - Horizontal surfaces - Vertical surfaces - Diagonal routes Chahouas frequently rest against broad vertical cork surfaces. ## Branch Diameter Provide branches of varying thickness. Some should be sufficiently broad for the gecko to rest comfortably without constantly gripping a narrow perch. ## Hides Provide elevated hiding opportunities. Suitable options include: - Cork tubes - Hollow branches - Elevated hides - Dense foliage Ground-level hides can also be provided but should not be the only retreats available. ## Foliage Dense vegetation provides: - Security - Climbing opportunities - Drinking surfaces - Humidity gradients - Visual barriers Suitable reptile-safe plants can include: - Pothos - Ficus - Schefflera - Bromeliads - Philodendron species known to be suitable for vivarium use Ensure plants are free from pesticides and other harmful chemicals. ## Enclosure Security Chahoua Geckos are strong climbers and can exploit poorly secured openings. Check: - Doors - Ventilation panels - Cable ports - Lid fittings - Door gaps before introducing the animal. ## Substrate Suitable substrates include: - Organic topsoil - Coco fibre - Orchid bark - Cypress mulch - Tropical bioactive mixtures The substrate should retain some moisture without remaining permanently saturated. ## Bioactive Housing Chahoua Geckos are well suited to properly established bioactive enclosures. A bioactive setup may contain: - Live plants - Natural soil - Leaf litter - Springtails - Suitable isopods Bioactive housing does not remove the need for: - Spot cleaning - Water changes - Equipment maintenance - Health monitoring ## Temperature Chahoua Geckos thrive at moderate temperatures. They should not be maintained continuously at high tropical temperatures. ## Day Temperature General daytime temperatures around: **22–26°C** are appropriate. ## Basking Area A small elevated basking area around: **27–29°C** can be provided. The gecko must always be able to retreat into cooler shaded areas. ## Cool Area Lower or shaded parts of the enclosure can remain around: **20–23°C** ## Night Temperature Night temperatures can generally fall to approximately: **18–22°C** A modest nighttime reduction is beneficial. ## Overheating Chahoua Geckos are vulnerable to excessive heat. Prolonged temperatures above approximately: **28–30°C** should be avoided. Particular care is required during summer heatwaves. ## Heatwaves During unusually hot weather: - Monitor enclosure temperatures closely - Increase room ventilation - Reduce unnecessary supplemental heating - Maintain hydration - Ensure cool retreats remain available Do not allow the enclosure to become a sealed heat trap. ## Heating Many homes may require little additional heating for much of the year. Where supplemental heating is required, use a suitable overhead heat source controlled by an appropriate thermostat. Avoid heating the entire enclosure uniformly. ## UVB Appropriate low-to-moderate UVB is recommended. Although Chahoua Geckos are primarily nocturnal, they may receive filtered UV exposure while resting during daylight. UVB can support: - Natural vitamin D3 synthesis - Calcium metabolism - Natural basking behaviour - Overall husbandry quality ## UV Gradient The enclosure should provide a gradient allowing the gecko to choose between: - UV exposure - Filtered exposure - Dense shade - Complete retreat Dense foliage helps create these choices naturally. ## Lighting Provide a clear day/night cycle. Approximately: **11–13 hours of daylight** is appropriate depending on season. Additional LED lighting can support live plants and provide bright daytime illumination. ## Night Lighting The enclosure should become dark at night. Avoid permanent: - Red lights - Blue lights - Purple lights Nighttime observation should not involve leaving visible lighting switched on continuously. ## Humidity General humidity around: **60–80%** works well when combined with good ventilation. Humidity should fluctuate. The enclosure should not remain saturated continuously. ## Humidity Cycle Humidity will commonly rise after evening misting and then gradually decline as ventilation and daytime warmth dry the enclosure. This cycle is preferable to constantly wet conditions. ## Misting Mist the enclosure regularly. In many setups, misting: **Once or twice daily** is appropriate. The exact frequency depends on: - Ventilation - Substrate - Planting - Room humidity - Season Allow some surfaces to dry between misting periods. ## Hydration Chahoua Geckos commonly lick droplets from: - Leaves - Glass - Branches - Cork Regular misting therefore contributes to hydration. ## Water Bowl Fresh drinking water should also be permanently available. Provide a clean stable water dish and replace the water regularly. ## Ventilation Good airflow is essential. High humidity combined with stagnant air can contribute to: - Respiratory problems - Skin problems - Mould - Bacterial growth Aim for a humid but fresh environment. ## Diet Chahoua Geckos are omnivorous. A balanced captive diet should include: - Complete gecko diet - Live invertebrate prey Chahouas are often enthusiastic insect hunters. ## Complete Gecko Diet A high-quality nutritionally complete commercial diet formulated for New Caledonian geckos can form the foundation of the captive diet. Prepare the food according to manufacturer instructions. Replace uneaten prepared diet before it spoils. ## Live Insects Regular live insects are strongly recommended. Suitable feeders include: - Crickets - Dubia roaches - Other suitable roaches - Locusts - Black soldier fly larvae - Silkworms Appropriate insect feeding provides: - Additional protein - Hunting enrichment - Behavioural stimulation ## Gut Loading Feeder insects should be properly gut-loaded before use. Provide insects with nutritious foods such as: - Leafy greens - Vegetables - Appropriate commercial gut-loading products ## Calcium Supplementation Insects should be appropriately dusted with calcium. Supplementation should take into account: - UVB provision - Complete gecko diet - Age - Reproductive status Avoid unnecessary over-supplementation. ## Fruit Fresh fruit should not replace a nutritionally complete gecko diet. Commercial complete diets provide a much more predictable balance of: - Protein - Calcium - Vitamins - Minerals Small amounts of suitable fresh fruit may occasionally be offered as enrichment, but should not become the dietary foundation. ## Juvenile Feeding Growing juveniles can generally be offered complete gecko diet: **Daily or every other day** with appropriately sized insects several times per week. Monitor growth and body condition. ## Adult Feeding Adults can generally be offered complete gecko diet approximately: **3–4 times per week** with live insects approximately: **1–2 times per week** depending on: - Body condition - Season - Activity - Reproductive status ## Feeding Ledges Elevated feeding stations are particularly useful. They allow the gecko to feed naturally without descending to the enclosure floor. ## Obesity Chahoua Geckos can become overweight. Monitor: - Body shape - Limbs - Abdomen - Tail base Adjust feeding according to individual condition rather than simply providing unlimited food. ## Food Enrichment Useful feeding enrichment includes: - Controlled insect hunting - Varying feeding locations - Elevated feeding cups - Tong-feeding selected insects ## Social Housing Individual housing is the safest general recommendation. Chahoua Geckos do not require companionship. ## Male Aggression Adult males should not normally be housed together. Serious territorial aggression can occur. ## Male/Female Housing Breeding pairs may sometimes be maintained together, but compatibility must be monitored carefully. Females can suffer: - Persistent breeding pressure - Bite injuries - Stress - Competition for resources Separate accommodation should always be available. ## Sexing Mature males generally develop: - Obvious hemipenal bulges - Prominent preanal pores Females lack the pronounced male hemipenal bulges. Sexing becomes easier as animals mature. ## Breeding Chahoua Geckos can be bred successfully in captivity. Only healthy mature animals in excellent condition should be paired. Females require particularly careful attention to: - Calcium - Nutrition - Hydration - Body condition - UVB provision ## Sexual Maturity Do not breed females simply because they have reached a particular age. Body size, weight and overall condition are equally important. Premature breeding can place unnecessary strain on a developing female. ## Egg Laying Chahoua Geckos are oviparous. Females generally produce: **2 eggs per clutch** although single eggs can occasionally occur. Several clutches may be produced during a breeding season. ## Nesting Provide suitable slightly moist laying substrate. Females may bury eggs in: - Soil - Moss - Substrate - Concealed planting areas Bioactive enclosures should be checked carefully during breeding season. ## Egg Adhesion Chahoua eggs may sometimes adhere to surfaces or each other. Do not forcibly separate firmly attached eggs. ## Incubation Eggs can generally be incubated at approximately: **22–26°C** under stable conditions. Incubation duration varies substantially with temperature and commonly extends for several months. Avoid excessively high incubation temperatures. Eggs should not be rotated after laying. ## Hatchlings Hatchlings require: - Secure arboreal accommodation - Fine branches - Dense foliage - Appropriate low-level UVB - Moderate temperatures - Regular misting - Tiny feeder insects - Complete gecko diet ## Hatchling Security Young Chahouas can exploit very small gaps. Check enclosure security carefully before introducing hatchlings. ## Quarantine All newly acquired reptiles should undergo quarantine. A minimum of approximately: **90 days** is a sensible starting point. Monitor: - Feeding - Weight - Faeces - Skin - Shedding - Respiration - Behaviour ## Shedding Chahoua Geckos normally consume much of their shed skin. Appropriate hydration and humidity support successful shedding. Pay particular attention to retained shed around: - Toes - Tail - Limbs ## Toe Health Healthy toe pads are essential for climbing. Persistent retained shed around the toes can impair grip and circulation. Inspect feet regularly without unnecessarily disturbing the animal. ## Signs of Good Health A healthy Chahoua Gecko should generally display: - Clear bright eyes - Strong grip - Firm jaw - Good body condition - Normal climbing ability - Regular feeding - Smooth coordinated movement - Normal faeces - Healthy skin and toes ## Warning Signs Seek veterinary advice for: - Persistent food refusal - Unexplained weight loss - Weak grip - Tremors - Soft jaw - Swollen limbs - Persistent diarrhoea - Respiratory symptoms - Severe retained shed - Abnormal swelling - Significant lethargy ## Common Husbandry Mistakes ### Enclosure Too Small Chahouas are substantial, active arboreal geckos. ### Insufficient Climbing Structure An empty tall enclosure does not provide useful arboreal habitat. ### Keeping Them Too Hot Prolonged excessive temperatures can be dangerous. ### Constantly Wet Conditions Humidity should fluctuate and ventilation must remain good. ### No Insects Chahouas are enthusiastic insect hunters and benefit from regular appropriately supplemented live prey. ### Feeding Only Fresh Fruit A nutritionally complete commercial gecko diet provides a much more balanced foundation. ### Poor Calcium Provision This is particularly important for growing animals and reproductive females. ### Housing Incompatible Animals Together Serious aggression can occur. ### Excessive Handling Even relatively calm individuals benefit from substantial undisturbed time. ## Captive-Bred Animals Captive-bred Chahoua Geckos should be strongly preferred. Advantages include: - Known origin - Established feeding - Better adaptation to captivity - Reduced disease and parasite concerns - No additional pressure on wild populations Where locality is known, maintain accurate records. ## Responsible Ownership Before acquiring a Chahoua Gecko, ensure you can provide: - A tall permanent enclosure - Extensive climbing structure - Dense foliage - Appropriate UVB - Moderate temperatures - Protection from overheating - High but fluctuating humidity - Good ventilation - Complete gecko diet - Regular live insects - Appropriate supplementation - Long-term veterinary care Their potential lifespan means they should be regarded as a long-term commitment. ## Suitability ### Advantages - Exceptional moss-like camouflage - Fascinating arboreal behaviour - Manageable adult size - Often relatively calm when captive-bred - Can tolerate gentle handling - Strong feeding response - Excellent planted-display species - Captive breeding well established - Long-lived ### Considerations - More expensive and less commonly available than some New Caledonian geckos - Requires substantial vertical space - Vulnerable to overheating - Requires regular humidity management - Live insects should form part of the diet - Males can be territorial - Long-term commitment ## Summary The Chahoua Gecko (_Mniarogekko chahoua_) is a robust, beautifully camouflaged New Caledonian arboreal gecko with a strongly prehensile tail and fascinating nocturnal behaviour. Successful husbandry centres on: - Approximately 18" × 18" × 36" minimum adult accommodation - 24" × 24" × 36" or larger preferred - Extensive cork, branches and climbing routes - Dense foliage and elevated retreats - General daytime temperatures around 22–26°C - A small basking area around 27–29°C - Protection from prolonged excessive heat - Appropriate low-to-moderate UVB - Approximately 60–80% humidity with regular drying periods - Excellent ventilation - Regular misting - Permanent fresh drinking water - A nutritionally complete commercial gecko diet - Regular gut-loaded live insects - Appropriate calcium supplementation - Individual housing as the safest default When provided with suitable temperatures, abundant climbing structure, balanced nutrition and a well-managed humid environment, captive-bred Chahoua Geckos can make exceptionally rewarding and long-lived arboreal reptiles. * * * ## IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This care sheet provides general husbandry guidance and does not replace species-specific research or veterinary advice. Individual requirements may vary. Always check current legislation governing the acquisition, collection, import, transport, keeping, breeding or sale of reptiles in your jurisdiction. If you have concerns about an animal’s health or care, consult a suitably experienced exotic or reptile veterinarian. Information correct at the date of publication. [reptilecommunity.com](http://reptilecommunity.com) | Revised: August 2026 ---
**Author:** ![ReptileCommunity](https://reptilecommunity.com/user_avatar/reptilecommunity.com/reptilecommunity/32/3_2.png) [@ReptileCommunity](https://reptilecommunity.com/u/ReptileCommunity)\ **Post date:** [August 24, 2026, 2:39am UTC](https://reptilecommunity.com/t/chahoua-gecko-mossy-prehensile-tailed-gecko-mniarogekko-chahoua/617/2 "2026-08-24T02:39:23Z")