Leopard geckos are one of the most popular reptile pets in the world. They are easy to care for and come in a range of different morphs or variations. This article will cover the different types of leopard gecko morphs, what makes them unique, and other details about caring for them.
What are leopard gecko morphs?
Leopard geckos come in a range of morphs or variations. These morphs are different in appearance and may have unique genetic traits. Leopard gecko morphs are produced as a result of genetic mutations, which cause the geckos to have different coloration, patterns, or other physical features.
What are the common leopard gecko morphs?
The following are some of the common leopard gecko morphs:
1. Normal
The normal leopard gecko morph has the typical appearance of a leopard gecko. They have a yellowish-brown body with black spots and stripes. There is no specific pattern or characteristic that makes them unique.
2. Albino
Albino leopard geckos lack the melanin pigmentation that gives them coloration. They have no dark spots or stripes and are pure white or cream-colored with pink eyes.
3. High Yellow
High yellow leopard geckos have a very bright yellow coloration that covers most of their body. They also have some black spots and stripes, but they are less visible than in the normal morph.
4. Tangerine
Tangerine leopard geckos have an orange or reddish color to their body. They are similar to high yellow geckos but have a more vibrant coloration.
5. Patternless
Patternless leopard geckos have little to no spots or stripes on their body. They may have some faint markings, but their body is mainly a solid color.
6. Mack Snow
Mack Snow leopard geckos have a unique pattern and coloration. They have a white or cream-colored body with dark, black spots or stripes. Their eyes are also black instead of the typical brown.
7. Enigma
Enigma leopard geckos have a distinctive head shape and wavy tail. Their body coloration is similar to the normal morph, but they have a unique pattern on their head.
8. Reverse Stripe
Reverse Stripe leopard geckos have a dark stripe down their back instead of the typical light stripe. They also have a unique coloration with a mix of yellow and brown.
9. RAPTOR
RAPTOR stands for Red-Eyed Patternless Tremper Orange. They have a patternless body with red eyes and a bright orange color.
What makes each leopard gecko morph unique?
Each leopard gecko morph has unique characteristics that make them different from the others. Some of the differences may be subtle, while others are more obvious, such as coloration or pattern. Here are some of the unique features of each leopard gecko morph:
– Albino: Pure white or cream-colored body with pink eyes
– High Yellow: Bright yellow coloration that covers most of their body
– Tangerine: Orange or reddish coloration that is more vibrant than high yellow geckos
– Patternless: Solid color body with little to no spots or stripes
– Mack Snow: White or cream-colored body with dark, black spots or stripes and black eyes
– Enigma: Distinctive head shape and wavy tail
– Reverse Stripe: Dark stripe down their back with a mix of yellow and brown coloration
– RAPTOR: Red eyes, patternless body, and bright orange coloration.
What are the rarest leopard gecko morphs?
Some leopard gecko morphs are rarer than others due to their unique genetic mutations. Here are some of the rarest leopard gecko morphs:
1. Electric Tremper Albino
Electric Tremper Albino leopard geckos have a bright yellow or orange body with red eyes. Their overall appearance is similar to the tangerine morph, but they have a more vibrant coloration.
2. Bell Albino Eclipse
Bell Albino Eclipse leopard geckos have a pure white or cream-colored body with black eyes. They also have a unique pattern on their body that is similar to the Mack Snow morph.
3. Diablo Blanco
Diablo Blanco leopard geckos have a completely white or cream-colored body with no spots or stripes. They also have red or pink eyes.
4. Rainwater Albino
Rainwater Albino leopard geckos have a yellow or orange body with pure white or cream-colored markings. They also have red eyes.
5. Black Night Leopard Gecko
Black Night leopard geckos have a black and white coloration with no yellow or orange markings. Their appearance is similar to a white-out, but they have black spots or stripes on their body.
How do you care for leopard gecko morphs?
Caring for leopard gecko morphs is similar to caring for normal leopard geckos. Here are some tips for caring for your leopard gecko:
– Housing: Provide a 20-gallon tank for one to two geckos, with a secure lid and substrate such as reptile carpet or paper towels. The tank should also have a hiding spot, basking area, and a shallow water dish.
– Temperature: The temperature should be kept between 88-90°F during the day and no lower than 70°F at night. A heat lamp and heating pad can be used to regulate the temperature.
– Diet: Feed your gecko gut-loaded insects such as crickets, mealworms, and waxworms. Dust the insects with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements.
– Lighting: Leopard geckos do not require additional lighting, but a natural light cycle should be maintained with 12-14 hours of light and 10-12 hours of darkness.
– Handling: Handle your leopard gecko with care and avoid grabbing their tail. It may break off as a defense mechanism.
Conclusion
Leopard gecko morphs come in a range of different colorations and patterns. These morphs are produced from genetic mutations, which cause the geckos to have unique physical features. Understanding the different morphs and their care requirements can help ensure that your leopard gecko stays healthy and happy.
