common house gecko
(Hemidactylus frenatus Duméril and Bibron, 1836)

Overview

Origin

Hemidactylus frenatus, Common House Gecko, is a lizard native to Asia. They grow from 3 - 6 inches (7.5-15 cm) long with rows of small spikes running down each side of the slightly flattened tail. H. frenatus has been able to successfully compete against endemic gecko species for both food and shelter.

Life Cycle

The expected life span of H. frenatus is approximately 5 years. They reach sexual maturity at one year. H. frenatus usually produce two eggs per clutch with an incubation period of from 45 to 70 days.

Distribution

H. frenatus has spread around the world. It is now found in the southern United States, Central America, South America, Australia, Africa and many Pacific islands. Its range continues to expand into regions with climates ranging from tropical to temperate. Although H. frenatus populations have in the past been associated more with human habitations, it is now seen with increasing frequency in natural areas.

Control Efforts

H. frenatus is often spread to new areas through shipping. It can climb high into shipping containers. This makes it more difficult to detect H. frenatus or its egg deposits during inspections of the cargo.

Maps

Invasive Listing Sources

• Everglades Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area
• Florida Invasive Species Partnership
• Nonnative Invasive Species in Southern Forest and Grassland Ecosystems

References