Reptoria

Eastern stone gecko (Diplodactylus vittatus)

Eastern stone gecko (Diplodactylus vittatus), typical appearance of the species

Geckos · Difficulty: Intermediate

Key facts and care guidance for Eastern stone gecko (Diplodactylus vittatus) (origin: Eastern Australia). Adult size around 8–10 cm. Life expectancy 8–15 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.

Short answers

Eastern stone gecko: How big does the enclosure need to be?

80×40×50 cm for a pair.

Eastern stone gecko: What temperature does it need?

Daytime 28–32 °C, basking spot Basking spot 35–38 °C, at night 18–22 °C.

Eastern stone gecko: Does it need UVB lighting?

UVB: Recommended (UVB 5.0).

Eastern stone gecko: How long do they live?

Life expectancy: 8–15 years.

Eastern stone gecko: Is it suitable for beginners?

Rather not – it is considered an intermediate species (difficulty: Intermediate).

Climate

Daytime temperature
28–32 °C
Night temperature
18–22 °C
Basking spot
Basking spot 35–38 °C
Humidity
40–55 %
UVB
Recommended (UVB 5.0)

Enclosure

Minimum size
80×40×50 cm for a pair
Substrate
A sand-loam mix they can dig in, plus bark, branches and flat stones

Feeding

Food
Crickets, roaches and house crickets, dusted regularly with calcium and vitamins
Feeding interval
adults 2–3×/week

Key facts

Adult size
8–10 cm
Life expectancy
8–15 years
Origin
Eastern Australia
Protection status
Australia does not export wildlife — only European captive-bred animals
Brumation
A cooler rest of 8–10 weeks at 14–18 °C
Cohabitation
In pairs or as a harem (1.2); never two males together, they fight over territory and the basking spot until one is injured or permanently gives way. Females generally get along but need their own heat and hiding spots; feed separately if they differ in size.

Notes

A pale dorsal stripe. Undemanding for the genus.

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Related species

All species in the care wiki →

What you need to start

To keep Eastern stone gecko (Diplodactylus vittatus) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (80×40×50 cm for a pair), substrate (A sand-loam mix they can dig in, plus bark, branches and flat stones), a heat source with a thermostat, UVB lighting, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.

The complete, interactive care database is in the Reptoria app.

Last updated: 9 October 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diplodactylus_vittatus, https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Diplodactylus&species=vittatus, https://reptilesmagazine.com/diplodactylus-geckos-of-australia/

All values are non-binding guidance and do not replace expert advice. Research thoroughly from several sources before acquiring and keeping an animal, and observe the applicable law (species and animal protection in particular).