Reptoria

Ringed gecko (Gonatodes annularis)

Ringed gecko (Gonatodes annularis), typical appearance of the species

Geckos · Difficulty: Intermediate

Key facts and care guidance for Ringed gecko (Gonatodes annularis) (origin: Guyana and northern Brazil). Adult size around 7–9 cm. Life expectancy 5–8 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.

Short answers

Ringed gecko: How big does the enclosure need to be?

30×30×45 cm for a pair.

Ringed gecko: What temperature does it need?

Daytime 25–29 °C, basking spot Small basking spot 30–33 °C, at night 19–22 °C.

Ringed gecko: Does it need UVB lighting?

UVB: Essential for the diurnal species (UVB 5.0).

Ringed gecko: How long do they live?

Life expectancy: 5–8 years.

Ringed gecko: Is it suitable for beginners?

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

Climate

Daytime temperature
25–29 °C
Night temperature
19–22 °C
Basking spot
Small basking spot 30–33 °C
Humidity
60–75 %, mist in the morning
UVB
Essential for the diurnal species (UVB 5.0)

Enclosure

Minimum size
30×30×45 cm for a pair
Substrate
Forest-floor substrate with live plants, plus thin branches and bamboo

Feeding

Food
Small insects such as firebrats, fruit flies and micro crickets, dusted regularly with calcium and vitamins
Feeding interval
adults 3–4×/week

Key facts

Adult size
7–9 cm
Life expectancy
5–8 years
Origin
Guyana and northern Brazil
Protection status
Not listed under CITES
Brumation
No winter rest
Cohabitation
In pairs; never keep males together. The reason: several males fight over territory and the warm spot until one is injured or spends its life in a corner. Females usually get on, but each needs its own warm spot and hide; feed them separately once they differ in size.

Notes

A strongly marked male. A quiet forest species.

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Related species

All species in the care wiki →

What you need to start

To keep Ringed gecko (Gonatodes annularis) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (30×30×45 cm for a pair), substrate (Forest-floor substrate with live plants, plus thin branches and bamboo), 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/Annulated_gecko, https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Gonatodes&species=annularis

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).