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Giant day gecko (Phelsuma grandis)

Giant day gecko (Phelsuma grandis), typical appearance of the species

Geckos · Difficulty: Beginner

Key facts and care guidance for Giant day gecko (Phelsuma grandis) (origin: Northern Madagascar (introduced to Réunion and Florida among others)). Adult size around 23–30 cm total length (the largest day gecko). Life expectancy 10–15 years (sometimes up to 20). The values below are carefully researched guidance.

Short answers

Giant day gecko: How big does the enclosure need to be?

From 80×80×105 cm for one animal; for a pair from 80×80×105 cm (1997 expert report, at 13 cm SVL).

Giant day gecko: What temperature does it need?

Daytime 25–30 °C, basking spot 32–35 °C (basking spot), at night 20–24 °C.

Giant day gecko: Does it need UVB lighting?

UVB: UVB needed (Ferguson zone 2–3, UV index 3–4); diurnal, and indispensable for D3 synthesis.

Giant day gecko: How long do they live?

Life expectancy: 10–15 years (sometimes up to 20).

Giant day gecko: Is it suitable for beginners?

Yes – it is considered suitable for beginners (difficulty: Beginner).

Climate

Daytime temperature
25–30 °C
Night temperature
20–24 °C
Basking spot
32–35 °C (basking spot)
Humidity
60–70 % by day, up to ~80–90 % at night
UVB
UVB needed (Ferguson zone 2–3, UV index 3–4); diurnal, and indispensable for D3 synthesis

Enclosure

Minimum size
from 80×80×105 cm for one animal; for a pair from 80×80×105 cm (1997 expert report, at 13 cm SVL)
Substrate
Humus or coco soil, live plants, smooth branches and bamboo tubes

Feeding

Food
Insects plus fruit purée, nectar and pollen; calcium (essential)
Feeding interval
adults insects 3–4×/week plus fruit purée 1–2×/week, juveniles daily

Key facts

Adult size
23–30 cm total length (the largest day gecko)
Life expectancy
10–15 years (sometimes up to 20)
Origin
Northern Madagascar (introduced to Réunion and Florida among others)
Protection status
CITES Appendix II / EU Regulation Annex B (Phelsuma spp.); proof of origin plus registration required
Brumation
No real winter rest; a slight seasonal drop in temperature or light is possible
Cohabitation
Keep them singly or as a pair (1.1) in a large enclosure; NEVER keep males together (severe territorial fights). Females too can be intolerant of each other

Notes

The most robust beginner's day gecko, but UVB, calcium and height are essential (otherwise MBD). Do not touch it – delicate skin that comes away. Territorial: avoid glass panes or sight lines to neighbouring animals.

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What you need to start

To keep Giant day gecko (Phelsuma grandis) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (from 80×80×105 cm for one animal; for a pair from 80×80×105 cm (1997 expert report, at 13 cm SVL)), substrate (Humus or coco soil, live plants, smooth branches and bamboo tubes), 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: einrichtungsbeispiele.de, dahmstierleben.de, Wikipedia EN, Gutachten 1997, phelsumagrandis.de – Phelsuma grandis züchten (26–32 °C, meist 2–3 Monate) – https://www.phelsumagrandis.de/phelsuma-grandis-zuechten/

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).