{"product_id":"dune-gecko-stenodactylus-sthenodactylus","title":"Dune Gecko (Stenodactylus sthenodactylus)","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"288\" data-end=\"304\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"288\" data-end=\"302\"\u003eDune Gecko\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"306\" data-end=\"389\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"306\" data-end=\"326\"\u003eScientific Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem data-start=\"327\" data-end=\"357\"\u003eStenodactylus sthenodactylus\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"357\" data-end=\"360\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"360\" data-end=\"376\"\u003eCommon Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dune Gecko\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u0026lt; data-start=\"391\" data-end=\"394\"\u0026gt;\n\u003cp data-start=\"396\" data-end=\"418\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"396\" data-end=\"416\"\u003eSpecies Overview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"420\" data-end=\"609\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"420\" data-end=\"429\"\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e Adults typically reach 3–4 inches (7.5–10 cm) in total length, including the tail. They are small, delicate geckos with proportionally large eyes and a fine, sand-adapted build.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"611\" data-end=\"1127\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"611\" data-end=\"626\"\u003eAppearance:\u003c\/strong\u003e The Dune Gecko is a small desert-dwelling species with a slender body, short limbs, and a rounded snout. Its base colour ranges from pale cream to sandy beige, often patterned with faint, irregular blotches that blend seamlessly with its surroundings. The skin is semi-translucent, with a smooth matte texture, and the large, lidless eyes are dark and reflective—well-suited to its nocturnal lifestyle. Their subtle colouring and fine scales provide near-perfect camouflage against arid landscapes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1129\" data-end=\"1268\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1129\" data-end=\"1146\"\u003eDistribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e Found throughout the Middle East and North Africa, including Israel, Egypt, , and parts of the Arabian Peninsula.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1270\" data-end=\"1566\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1270\" data-end=\"1282\"\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dune Geckos inhabit sandy deserts, dunes, and dry scrub regions. They are well adapted to loose, shifting substrates, often burrowing beneath the surface during the day to escape heat. In captivity, they thrive in dry, well-ventilated enclosures that replicate these arid habitats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1568\" data-end=\"1973\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1568\" data-end=\"1582\"\u003eBehaviour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Primarily nocturnal and ground-dwelling, Dune Geckos are active and alert after dark. They are gentle and non-aggressive but can be shy and quick-moving. They use their delicate limbs to “swim” through sand and may occasionally make short, darting runs to capture small insects. With patient care and minimal disturbance, they adapt well to captivity and make fascinating display animals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u0026lt; data-start=\"1975\" data-end=\"1978\"\u0026gt;\n\u003cp data-start=\"1980\" data-end=\"1998\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1980\" data-end=\"1996\"\u003eCaptive Care\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2000\" data-end=\"2355\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2000\" data-end=\"2014\"\u003eEnclosure:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provide an enclosure measuring at least 18 inches × 18 inches × 12 inches (45 × 45 × 30 cm) for an adult pair or small group, though larger enclosures are always beneficial. Use a compacted sand-soil mixture or fine desert substrate that supports burrowing behaviour. Add a few secure hides, flat rocks, and dry wood pieces for structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2357\" data-end=\"2639\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2357\" data-end=\"2384\"\u003eTemperature \u0026amp; Humidity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Maintain a warm side of 88–92°F (31–33°C) with an ambient temperature around 80°F (27°C) and a cooler end near 74°F (23°C). Nighttime drops to 70°F (21°C) are ideal. Humidity should remain low (20–40%) with occasional light misting to mimic desert dew.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2641\" data-end=\"2803\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2641\" data-end=\"2654\"\u003eLighting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provide a 12-hour day\/night cycle. While primarily nocturnal, low-intensity UVB (2–5%) improves calcium metabolism and supports natural behaviour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2805\" data-end=\"3007\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2805\" data-end=\"2814\"\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e Feed small insects such as pinhead crickets, bean beetles, small roaches, and fruit flies. Offer food 3–4 times per week, dusting insects with calcium and multivitamin supplements regularly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3009\" data-end=\"3283\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3009\" data-end=\"3036\"\u003eBehaviour in Captivity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dune Geckos are fast but rarely aggressive. They are best appreciated as a display species rather than one for regular handling. Their natural behaviours—digging, hunting, and surface-skimming—are most visible in a quiet, dimly lit environment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3285\" data-end=\"3497\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3285\" data-end=\"3312\"\u003eSpecial Considerations:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provide dry, secure enclosures with minimal humidity to prevent respiratory issues. Use a secure lid, as these small geckos can climb textured surfaces or squeeze through tight gaps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u0026lt; data-start=\"3499\" data-end=\"3502\"\u0026gt;\n\u003cp data-start=\"3504\" data-end=\"3554\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3504\" data-end=\"3552\"\u003eSand: Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3556\" data-end=\"4026\"\u003eSand is a natural part of the Dune Gecko’s habitat and can be used safely when applied correctly. Compacted, mineral-based sand or a soil-sand blend allows for stable burrowing and natural movement. Loose, powdery, or calcium-based sands should be avoided, as they increase the risk of ingestion or respiratory irritation. For juveniles, a slightly compacted substrate layer is preferred to reduce the chance of accidental ingestion while supporting natural behaviour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u0026lt; data-start=\"4028\" data-end=\"4031\"\u0026gt;\n\u003cp data-start=\"4033\" data-end=\"4052\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4033\" data-end=\"4050\"\u003eTaxonomy Note\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4054\" data-end=\"4458\"\u003eThe Dune Gecko (\u003cem data-start=\"4070\" data-end=\"4100\"\u003eStenodactylus sthenodactylus\u003c\/em\u003e) belongs to the family Gekkonidae and is one of several \u003cem data-start=\"4157\" data-end=\"4172\"\u003eStenodactylus\u003c\/em\u003e species adapted to desert life. The genus is sometimes referred to as “short-fingered geckos,” referencing their compact limbs and toes suited for digging in sand. The species’ taxonomy is stable, with \u003cem data-start=\"4375\" data-end=\"4394\"\u003eS. sthenodactylus\u003c\/em\u003e being the most widespread and well-known member of its genus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u0026lt; data-start=\"4460\" data-end=\"4463\"\u0026gt;\n\u003cp data-start=\"4465\" data-end=\"4484\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4465\" data-end=\"4482\"\u003eGenetics Note\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4486\" data-end=\"4760\"\u003eThere are currently \u003cstrong data-start=\"4506\" data-end=\"4550\"\u003eno recognized morphs or genetic variants\u003c\/strong\u003e of the Dune Gecko (\u003cem data-start=\"4570\" data-end=\"4600\"\u003eStenodactylus sthenodactylus\u003c\/em\u003e) in captivity. Natural variation in tone and pattern occurs between regional populations, reflecting environmental adaptation rather than selective breeding.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tails and Scales","offers":[{"title":"Captive Bred","offer_id":56196272521538,"sku":"jhg1789652038143","price":54.02,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Import","offer_id":56196272554306,"sku":"exp1789652038144","price":27.88,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1010\/8380\/8066\/files\/dune-gecko-stenodactylus-sthenodactylus_1.jpg?v=1789652041","url":"https:\/\/abrasionresistclad.shop\/products\/dune-gecko-stenodactylus-sthenodactylus","provider":"My Store","version":"1.0","type":"link"}