Williams Blue Cave geckos are a small species of gecko found in caves in Tanzania. They are known for their brilliant blue coloration. Williams Blue Cave geckos reach lengths of 3-5 inches as adults, making them a relatively small gecko species. Their size allows them to fit into small crevices and hideaways in the caves where they live. In this article, we will explore the typical size and growth patterns of Williams Blue Cave geckos.
Average Adult Size
The average adult size of Williams Blue Cave geckos is around 3-5 inches in total length. This includes their body, tail, and head. Their tails make up about 40-60% of their total length.
Here are some more details on the typical adult size of Williams Blue Cave geckos:
| Body length | 1.5 – 3 inches |
| Tail length | 1.5 – 2.5 inches |
| Total length | 3 – 5 inches |
As this table shows, their small size makes them one of the smaller gecko species. Their brilliant blue coloring and small stature helps them blend into the dark cave environments where they live.
Growth Rate
Williams Blue Cave geckos grow steadily throughout their lives, though their growth does slow down as they reach maturity around 18-24 months.
Here is an overview of their growth rate:
| Age | Total Length |
| Hatchling | 1 – 1.5 inches |
| 3 months | 1.5 – 2 inches |
| 6 months | 2 – 2.5 inches |
| 12 months | 2.5 – 3 inches |
| 18 months | 3 – 4 inches |
| Adult (2+ years) | 3 – 5 inches |
As you can see, Williams Blue Cave gecko hatchlings emerge quite small, around 1-1.5 inches long. They grow quickly in their first year, putting on around 1-2 inches in total length. Their growth slows around 18 months when they reach maturity. Most of their growth is complete by 2 years old.
Differences Between Males and Females
There are some small differences in size between male and female Williams Blue Cave geckos. Males tend to be slightly larger than females as adults.
Here are the typical size differences:
| Males | Females | |
| Body Length | 2 – 3 inches | 1.5 – 2.5 inches |
| Tail Length | 2 – 2.5 inches | 1.5 – 2 inches |
| Total Length | 4 – 5 inches | 3 – 4.5 inches |
The larger size of males is likely linked to competition for mates and territoriality. The size dimorphism becomes more apparent once the geckos reach maturity after about 18 months.
Factors Affecting Size
Several factors can affect the growth rate and ultimate size of Williams Blue Cave geckos:
– **Genetics**: Some size variation between individual geckos is based on genetic differences that control growth rates.
– **Nutrition**: Geckos receiving proper nutrition with appropriate amounts of insects and calcium will grow faster and larger than geckos lacking nutrients.
– **Captivity vs. Wild**: Captive geckos provided optimal care typically grow slightly larger than wild geckos limited by natural food availability.
– **Health**: Parasites, illness, or injury can restrict a gecko’s growth if the issues aren’t properly treated.
– **Habitat**: Natural cave conditions like temperature can impact growth rates in wild populations.
With good genetics, nutrition, health, and proper care, most Williams Blue Cave geckos reach the full typical adult size ranges. Their maximum size is ultimately limited by their genetics. Proper care in captivity allows them to reach their full genetic potential.
Conclusion
Williams Blue Cave geckos are a small species, averaging 3-5 inches long as adults. Hatchlings emerge at just 1-1.5 inches. They grow quickly in their first year, slowing down around 18 months when they reach maturity. Males are slightly larger than females as adults. With good care, genetics, and health, most individuals reach their full size potential. The small size of Williams Blue Cave geckos enables them to live and hide effectively within the caves of their native Tanzania. Their brilliant blue coloring and petite stature make them a favorite among reptile enthusiasts.
