crestie basics
Q: What is the scientific name of the crested gecko?
A: Correlophus ciliatus
Q: What morph is known for having dark spots that resemble dalmatian spots?
A: Dalmatian.
Q: What does “gene” mean?
A: A section of DNA that contains instructions for a trait.
Q: What type of enclosure is best for a crested gecko: one that is wider than it is tall, or one that is taller than it is wide?
A: Taller than it is wide.
Q: What year was the crested gecko first scientifically described?
A: 1866.
Q: What island group is the crested gecko native to?
A: New Caledonia.
Q: What does “base color” mean when describing a crested gecko?
A: The main/background color of the gecko, underneath its patterning.
Q: What does het mean in reptile genetics?
A: Heterozygous—the gecko carries one copy of a particular gene.
Q: What should a crested gecko’s enclosure have plenty of to allow it to climb and feel secure?
A: Branches, vines, and foliage/hiding spots.
Q: What were crested geckos once believed to be after they disappeared from scientific records?
A: Extinct
Q: What is the term for a crested gecko changing its appearance to become darker or more intensely colored?
A: Firing up.
Q: What does the term “patternless” mean when describing a crested gecko?
A: A crested gecko with little to no visible patterning on its body.
Q: What is the difference between a dominant and recessive gene?
A: A dominant gene can show with one copy, while a recessive gene generally requires two copies to be visibly expressed.
Q: What temperature range is generally considered comfortable for a crested gecko?
A: Around 70–78°F (21–26°C).
Q: According to the story of the crested gecko’s rediscovery in 1994, how did researchers realize they had found the “extinct” gecko?
A: A crested gecko jumped onto one of the researchers during the expedition!
Q: What sounds might a crested gecko make during mating or when communicating with another gecko?
A: Chirping, squeaking, barking, quaking, or clicking sounds.
Q: What is one major difference between a harlequin and a flame crested gecko?
A: Harlequins generally have more extensive patterning on the sides and legs, while flames have less side patterning.
Q: If two crested geckos are both 100% het for the same recessive trait, what percentage of their offspring would be expected to visually show that trait?
A: 25%.
Q: What is one important reason a crested gecko enclosure should have plenty of vertical climbing space?
A: Crested geckos are arboreal, meaning they naturally spend much of their time climbing and living off the ground.
Q: Before they were rediscovered in 1994, how long had crested geckos gone without being seen by scientists?
A: More than 100 years.
Q: What year were crested geckos rediscovered after they were thought to be extinct?
A: 1994.
Q: What is the difference between a morph and a trait in crested gecko breeding?
A: A morph generally refers to a recognized appearance/genetic line, while a trait describes a specific characteristic or feature a gecko displays or carries.
Q: What does co-dominant mean in crested gecko genetics, or what crested gecko morph is commonly considered co-dominant?
A: A co-dominant gene can be expressed with one copy, and Lilly White is commonly considered a co-dominant morph.
Q: Why shouldn’t the enclosure stay constantly wet and humid?
A: Constantly high humidity with poor drying can encourage mold, bacteria, and respiratory problems; the enclosure should have periods where it can dry somewhat.
Q: What event helped lead to the 1994 expedition during which crested geckos were rediscovered?
A: A major cyclone hit New Caledonia, prompting researchers to explore the area afterward.