Crested geckos (Correlophus ciliatus) and frogs are both fascinating creatures, popular in the pet trade for their unique characteristics and relatively simple care requirements.
Crested geckos should not be housed with frogs. While some species may tolerate each other, the risks of stress, predation, and disease transmission make cohabitation generally not recommended unless you have a large, specialized enclosure.
In this article, we’ll explore the potential risks, expert opinions, and alternative options when it comes to keeping crested geckos and frogs together.
Understanding the Species
Crested Geckos
Native to New Caledonia, crested geckos are arboreal reptiles, meaning they naturally live in trees or on vertical surfaces. They are easily recognized by their fringed crests above their eyes and down their bodies, and their prehensile tails, which help them navigate their environment. Crested geckos thrive in warm, humid environments with temperatures typically ranging between 72°F and 78°F (22°C to 25°C). In terms of diet, crested geckos are omnivorous. They primarily consume fruit-based purees and nectar, but they can also eat small insects such as crickets and roaches. They are nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the evening and night hours.
Frogs
The term “frog” refers to a diverse group of amphibians, many of which have specific care requirements that vary by species. For example, species such as the white’s tree frog (Litoria caerulea) and the pacman frog (Ceratophrys ornata) are both popular in the pet trade but have differing needs. White’s tree frogs are arboreal and require humidity levels similar to crested geckos, though their temperature requirements might be slightly different. On the other hand, pacman frogs are primarily terrestrial and require a completely different setup. Understanding the specific species of frog is crucial when determining if it can be housed with a crested gecko, as their environmental needs can significantly differ.
Potential Risks of Cohabitation
While crested geckos and frogs may appear to be suitable companions in a shared enclosure, there are several important risks to consider.
Predation
One of the most significant risks when housing crested geckos with frogs is predation. Some frog species, such as white’s tree frogs, have been known to prey on small reptiles. While a crested gecko is larger than some small frogs, a hungry or opportunistic frog might attempt to eat a gecko, especially if they feel threatened or are stressed by the unfamiliar presence of the gecko. Crested geckos are small and delicate, making them vulnerable to larger or more aggressive amphibians.
Some species of frogs, such as pacman frogs, have strong jaws and an opportunistic nature. They are capable of striking and eating prey that fits within their mouths, and unfortunately, a crested gecko could be within that size range, especially a juvenile. Even though crested geckos are typically nocturnal and might try to avoid frogs during the day, the frog may still try to capture and eat the gecko, especially if they are housed in an enclosure where hiding spots are limited.
Disease Transmission
Frogs and reptiles can carry diseases that may not affect them but can be harmful to other species. For instance, frogs, particularly amphibians, are known to be carriers of chytridiomycosis, a fungal infection that affects amphibians and can be deadly. While this disease primarily affects amphibians, it has been known to spread to reptiles, such as crested geckos, under certain conditions. The introduction of disease-causing bacteria or fungi from frogs to geckos can result in illness or even death for the gecko.
Additionally, frogs’ skin can secrete toxins that are meant to deter predators, and these toxins could potentially harm a crested gecko if they come into contact with them. Even though crested geckos do not typically ingest things through skin contact, their grooming behavior could make them susceptible to these toxins.
Environmental Requirements
Crested geckos and frogs both thrive in high humidity, but their temperature preferences may differ. Crested geckos generally prefer cooler temperatures, ranging from 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 25°C), while some frog species, like white’s tree frogs, prefer slightly warmer temperatures. If both species are housed in an enclosure that doesn’t meet both temperature requirements, it can lead to stress, illness, or other health issues.
Additionally, frogs generally need a higher water volume in their environment compared to crested geckos, who typically do not require standing water in their habitat. Too much water for the gecko could make it difficult for the reptile to move around the enclosure and potentially lead to respiratory issues due to excess moisture.
Stress and Competition
Crested geckos and frogs have different activity patterns and behavior types. Crested geckos are generally more solitary, especially during the day when they are resting. Frogs, on the other hand, might be more social or active in a different way, which could cause stress for the gecko. Stress is known to weaken a gecko’s immune system and can lead to behavioral problems, reduced appetite, and even premature death.
Furthermore, both species might compete for the same food sources. Since crested geckos and frogs are both opportunistic feeders, they may both attempt to grab the same prey or supplements. In a shared enclosure, this could result in fights, food shortages, or imbalanced diets.
Expert Opinions
Many experienced herpetologists and enthusiasts strongly advise against housing crested geckos with frogs. One of the primary concerns cited by experts is the potential for predation. The size difference between a crested gecko and some frogs, like the white’s tree frog, can be minimal, and frogs are known to be opportunistic feeders. Additionally, the difference in temperature preferences and environmental needs can create a habitat that is unsuitable for both species.
Herpetologists often suggest that keeping these species together increases the likelihood of disease transmission and environmental stress. For instance, a popular reptile forum, Reptile Forums UK, warns against housing different species of amphibians and reptiles together, particularly because of their different needs in terms of temperature, humidity, and light.
In many cases, experienced pet owners recommend that crested geckos be housed with other crested geckos or similar-sized, non-aggressive reptiles that share their environmental needs. Likewise, frogs should generally be housed with other frogs of the same species to avoid predation and stress.
Alternative Companions for Crested Geckos
If you are looking to create a multi-species enclosure, it’s essential to choose animals that share similar environmental and dietary needs. Here are a few potential companions for crested geckos:
Anoles
Anoles, specifically the green anole (Anolis carolinensis), can be a good option for crested gecko cohabitation. These small, arboreal lizards thrive in similar environmental conditions to crested geckos, including high humidity and moderate temperatures. They are non-aggressive and do not present a predation risk to geckos, making them suitable companions.
Other Crested Geckos
If you’re interested in housing multiple reptiles together, one of the best options is to house multiple crested geckos in the same enclosure. This requires careful management of their environment to provide ample hiding spots and plenty of space to reduce territorial aggression. However, it’s important to house geckos of similar size to prevent bullying or competition for resources.
Dart Frogs
Some hobbyists have successfully housed dart frogs with crested geckos, but this is not a common recommendation and should only be attempted by very experienced keepers. Dart frogs and crested geckos have similar humidity requirements, but dart frogs are more sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Additionally, both species need a large, bioactive setup with live plants and appropriate hiding spots.
FAQs
Can I keep a frog with my crested gecko?
It’s not recommended to keep frogs with crested geckos. They have different needs, and frogs might stress or harm them.
What animals can live with crested geckos?
Crested geckos can live with other geckos of the same species or non-aggressive, similarly sized reptiles in a large enclosure.
Can you put geckos and frogs together?
It’s best not to put geckos and frogs together due to differences in behavior, diet, and environmental needs.
Is string of frogs safe for crested geckos?
String of frogs is generally safe, but it’s essential to ensure it’s grown without harmful pesticides or chemicals before use.
What is toxic to crested geckos?
Crested geckos are toxic to certain plants, like ivy, and substances like pesticides or cleaning chemicals, which can harm them.
Do frogs eat house geckos?
Some frog species may try to eat small house geckos, especially if they are small enough to fit in their mouths.
Can frogs and lizards live together?
Frogs and lizards can sometimes live together, but they have different needs, so it’s not recommended for all species.
Can you cuddle with a crested gecko?
Crested geckos are not typically cuddly, but you can hold them gently for short periods if they feel comfortable.
Can a crested gecko live with poison dart frogs?
Crested geckos and poison dart frogs may not be ideal roommates due to different environmental needs and potential health risks.
Can you hold a crested gecko too much?
Yes, holding a crested gecko too much can stress them out. They prefer to be handled gently and infrequently.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s not advisable to house crested geckos with frogs due to differences in behavior, diet, and environmental needs. The risks of stress, predation, and disease transmission outweigh any potential benefits. Instead, focus on housing crested geckos with other similar species for a healthier, safer environment.
