Why is it so difficult to figure out the genetics of crested gecko colors and patterns?
Crested geckos come in a variety of colors and patterns that are the result of multiple interacting genes, thus, many crested gecko morphs are polygenetic. A few independent traits, such as the dalmatian pattern mentioned above, are single genetic traits that are easily controlled when breeding, but most crested gecko morphs can only be established through rigorous selective line breeding. This store was selling crested geckos without a tail and I complained to the store owner about his selling defective animals. He said this was normal for crested geckos. I answered that was impossible. Who’s wrong? You are. In the wild, at least on the Isle of Pines, the great majority of mature crested geckos are tail-less. As you know, crested geckos will not regenerate lost tails.
