How to distinguish male and female geckos
Gekko japonicus (scientific name: Gekko japonicus) is a common lizard pet that is loved by enthusiasts because of its cute appearance and easy maintenance. Telling the gender of a gecko is an essential skill for keepers, especially when breeding or keeping in groups. This article will detail how to distinguish the gender of geckos and provide structured data so readers can quickly grasp key information.
1. Basic methods for distinguishing the gender of geckos

Distinguishing male and female geckos is mainly by observing external characteristics and behavioral differences. Here are a few common methods:
| Features | Gongshou Palace | mother gecko |
|---|---|---|
| cloaca | There are two obvious protrusions (hemipens) below the cloaca. | The cloaca is flat and has no bulges. |
| body shape | Larger body, wider head | Small body, narrow head |
| behavior | Active, territorial, often barking | Relatively quiet and less aggressive |
2. Detailed feature comparison
1.Cloacal Characteristics: There are two obvious bulges below the cloaca of the male gecko, which is the location of his hemipenis; while the cloaca of the female gecko is flat and has no bulges. This is the most reliable way to differentiate.
2.body size differences: Male geckos are usually larger than female geckos, especially with wider heads, which is one of the manifestations of sexual dimorphism.
3.behavioral differences: Male geckos will show a stronger sense of territory during the breeding period and may even fight with other males; while female geckos are relatively gentle and less aggressive.
3. Other auxiliary methods
In addition to the above main features, the following methods can also be used to assist judgment:
| method | Description |
|---|---|
| Watch the tail | The base of the tail of male geckos is thicker, while that of female geckos is thinner. |
| color difference | Some varieties of male geckos are more colorful |
| Professional inspection | Gender can be confirmed by a veterinarian or specialized equipment such as an endoscope |
4. Frequently Asked Questions
1.How do larval geckos differentiate between sexes?The gender characteristics of larval geckos are not obvious, and it is usually necessary to wait until sexual maturity (about 6-12 months) to accurately determine.
2.Are the gender characteristics of different species of geckos consistent?The gender characteristics of most geckos are similar, but some special species (such as leopard geckos) may be slightly different. Please refer to the breeding guide for the specific species.
3.What are the consequences of misjudging gender?If you keep multiple male geckos together, it may lead to fights; and if you keep male and female geckos together, it may lead to accidental breeding, so you need to choose carefully according to your breeding goals.
5. Summary
Determining the gender of a gecko is an important step in the breeding process, especially for breeding or group breeding enthusiasts. By observing the cloaca, body shape and behavioral characteristics, the gender of the gecko can be determined more accurately. If you still have questions, it is recommended to consult a professional veterinarian or experienced breeder.
I hope this article can help you better understand the gender differentiation method of geckos and provide you with a reference for your breeding journey!
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