When it comes to feeding your crested gecko, you have options—some owners swear by commercial diets, while others prefer a more natural approach with insects and fruit. But which diet actually promotes better growth?
We put it to the test. Over a five-week study, we compared the growth of juvenile crested geckos on an insect & fruit-based diet versus those on a commercial powdered diet. The results may surprise you!
If you want your gecko to grow stronger and healthier, this guide will break down the findings and help you make the best dietary choices for your pet.
The Study: How Diet Affects Crested Gecko Growth
Methodology
To get a clear picture of how diet impacts crested gecko growth, juvenile geckos were split into two groups:
- Group 1: Fed a mix of calcium-dusted Dubia roaches and fresh papaya
- Group 2: Fed a commercial crested gecko diet (Pangea formula)
Growth was tracked weekly for five weeks, with weight gain recorded as the primary indicator of overall health and development.
Results: Insect & Fruit Diet Leads to Faster Weight Gain
Key Findings
- Geckos on an insect & fruit diet gained 24.35% more weight (total gain: 0.81g) compared to those on a commercial diet alone (13.07% weight increase, total gain: 0.42g).
- Both groups grew in length at similar rates, meaning overall size wasn't drastically different, but the insect-fed geckos gained weight faster.
- Commercial diets still provided solid growth, making them a viable option for convenience and balanced nutrition.
Weekly Weight Gain Data
| Week | Insect & Fruit Diet (g) | Commercial Diet (g) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 0.12 | 0.08 |
| 2 | 0.30 | 0.18 |
| 3 | 0.52 | 0.27 |
| 4 | 0.66 | 0.34 |
| 5 | 0.81 | 0.42 |
Takeaway: While both diets support healthy growth, geckos given live insects and fresh fruit put on weight more quickly.
Which Diet Should You Choose for Your Crested Gecko?
1. If You Want Faster Growth: Insect & Fruit Diet
Live insects like Dubia roaches provide high protein, while fresh fruit like papaya delivers vitamins and hydration. This combination mimics a crested gecko’s natural diet and leads to faster weight gain.
Recommended Setup for Feeding Insects & Fruit:
- Triple Dish – Offers separate sections for insects, fruit, and supplements like calcium.
- Flex Bridge – Encourages natural hunting behavior by allowing geckos to move and stalk prey.
- Premium Reptile Liner – A safe, non-loose substrate to avoid accidental ingestion while feeding.
2. If You Want Convenience: Commercial Diet
Commercial crested gecko diets like Pangea are nutritionally complete, easy to prepare, and perfect for busy owners. These diets contain a balanced blend of protein, vitamins, and minerals but may not promote growth as quickly as a live food diet.
Pros of Commercial Diets:
- No need to buy and store live insects
- Less mess & easier feeding schedule
- Ensures geckos get complete nutrition
Recommended Products for Easy Feeding:
- Flex Bridges Bundle Deal – This bundle includes Geckopia Bowls for effortless feeding and the Flex Bridge for a natural climbing experience, creating a perfect blend of convenience and enrichment for your reptile.
3. Best of Both Worlds: Mixed Feeding Approach
For optimal health, we recommend rotating between both diets. This ensures your gecko receives complete nutrition from a commercial diet while also getting the protein boost from insects.
Feeding Schedule Example:
- Monday, Wednesday, Friday – Commercial diet
- Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday – Live insects & fruit
- Sunday – Rest day or light feeding
Key Benefits of a Mixed Diet:
- Encourages healthy appetite & variety
- Boosts weight gain while ensuring balanced nutrition
- Mimics natural dietary habits in the wild
Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Diet for Your Gecko?
Our study shows that geckos on an insect & fruit diet gain weight faster than those on commercial diets. However, both options support healthy growth.
- Want rapid growth? Add live insects & fruit to your gecko’s diet.
- Prefer convenience? Commercial diets are a great alternative.
- Looking for the best of both worlds? Rotate between the two feeding methods.
No matter which diet you choose, providing the right feeding setup will ensure your gecko stays healthy and happy.
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