Observations on the Interactions between Thermal Conditions and Skin Shedding Frequency in the Tokay (Gekko gecko)

The effect of variable and constant temperature regimes on skin shedding frequency has been studied in Tokay geckos of Northern and Southern Asian origin. At temperatures of 32 C and above, shedding cycle duration shows a minimum of approximately 17-19 days, but at lower temperatures, cycle length increases steadily. No evidence of circannual rhythms in shedding behavior has been found. We conclude that shedding frequency is a function of general metabolic status in tokays.