Uroplatus lineatus
The lined leaf-tailed gecko is one of the most unusual reptiles on Earth. Where most Uroplatus have evolved skin folds and flaps to break their outline against mossy bark, the lined-leaf tailed gecko does the reverse.
Lined leaf-tailed geckos live in northeastern Madagascar, in semitropical rainforests where it resides in trees and bamboo. A nocturnal species, U. lineatus is a cryptic predator that hunts for insects.
Recently, geckos of the Uroplatus genus have become increasingly popular as breeding efforts become more successful. This could be related to the rise of UVB lighting as a standard. Despite leaf-tailed geckos being nocturnal, their cryptic resting behaviour leaves them exposed to high levels of sunlight throughout the day. Northern species of Uroplatus also often inhabit reasonably sparse forests or forest clearings. Here, they have evolved to tolerate patches of sunshine without breaking their disguise and thus, require a naturalistic terrarium that mimics both day and night.
A 60x45x60 terrarium will suitably house a pair of lined leaf-tailed geckos. Humidity should remain above 70% year-round, with spikes up to 90% in the evenings and more frequently in summer.
Décor should consist of numerous vertical branches of various textures and long-leaved plants. A penetrative basking spot that reaches 35℃ should create a collum of heat for the animals to move closer to and further away. A Ferguson Zone 3 T5, combined with a high output LED strip alongside the basking spot will provide artificial sunlight. The lizards will typically rest facing the brightest light. Some canopy cover should be added so the animals can shelter from the lighting when required.
All Malagasy leaf-tailed geckos are insectivorous. Some also have remarkably high calcium requirements, so gut-loaded, calcium-dusted insects are fundamental to their wellbeing.