The Leopard Gecko Manual
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Philippe De Vosjoil. The Leopard Gecko Manual
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Since the publication of my first book on leopard geckos in 1990, the herpetoculture of this species has undergone a revolution, transforming the leopard gecko into the first domesticated species of lizard. The leopard gecko is now the reptilian version of the parakeet or goldfish. As with goldfish, selective breeding for xanthism (predominance of yellow and orange skin pigments produced by cells called xanthophores) launched the course for domestication. Today, a number of leopard gecko morphs are commercially available, with many more on the horizon. As with fancy goldfish or koi carp, breeders eagerly seek prize specimens, which can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Like other domesticated animals, the leopard gecko has certain characteristics that make it particularly suitable for this kind of endeavor. It is one of the hardiest of all lizard species: easy to keep, easy to breed, and potentially long-lived. It is a convenient size, neither too small to be appreciated and handled nor so large that it presents risks or requires an enclosure that can’t be readily integrated into the average household. And the leopard gecko is undeniably beautiful, from the near-velvet texture of its skin to its gold eyes and pastel shades of color. Like other animals developed as forms of living art, the leopard gecko is extremely variable in color and pattern. These lizards also have nice personalities, by reptilian standards. By the time they are adults, many leopard geckos become quite docile and are slow and deliberate in their movements. The leopard gecko is one of the finest pets you could own.
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herpetoculturist: someone who practices herpetoculture.
herpetologist: a scientist who studies reptiles and amphibians.
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