Why Crested Geckos Should Not Eat Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a widely consumed food item globally, but should they be included in the diet of your beloved crested gecko? The answer is no. Crested geckos should not eat tomatoes for several reasons, including the unsuitable calcium to phosphorus ratio, the citric nature of tomatoes, and the acidity levels in tomatoes.

One of the main concerns with feeding tomatoes to crested geckos is the unsuitable calcium to phosphorus ratio. Crested geckos require a specific ratio of calcium to phosphorus in their diet, ideally 2:1. However, tomatoes have an inverse ratio, with more than 2 parts of phosphorus for every part of calcium. This significant imbalance is not suitable for the nutritional needs of crested geckos and is one of the main reasons why tomatoes should be avoided as a food source.

In addition to the calcium to phosphorus ratio, the citric nature of tomatoes is another reason why they are not suitable for crested geckos. Tomatoes, despite being commonly mistaken as vegetables, are actually classified as citric fruits. Just like other citric fruits such as limes, lemons, and oranges, tomatoes are not natural to the native habitat of crested geckos in New Caledonia. Therefore, crested geckos are not adapted to consume these fruits and feeding them tomatoes can cause digestive issues and discomfort.

Moreover, the acidity levels in tomatoes are too high for crested geckos. Even for humans, it is recommended to consume tomatoes in moderation due to their acidity. Some individuals with low acidity tolerance are even advised to avoid tomatoes altogether. Given that crested geckos have a delicate digestive system, high acidity levels in tomatoes can disrupt their digestive process and lead to imbalances in their overall health.

To ensure the well-being of your crested gecko, it’s important to provide a suitable diet that meets their specific nutritional needs. Instead of including tomatoes, there are several alternative food options that can be considered. These include various commercial crested gecko diets, such as powdered diets or commercially prepared fruit blends, as well as live insects like crickets and mealworms. These alternatives provide a balanced nutritional profile and are more suitable for the digestive system of crested geckos.

In conclusion, while tomatoes may be a common food item for humans, they should not be fed to crested geckos. The unsuitable calcium to phosphorus ratio, the citric nature, and the high acidity levels in tomatoes make them unsuitable for the nutritional needs and digestive systems of crested geckos. It is important to research and provide a diet that aligns with the natural habitat and dietary requirements of crested geckos to ensure their overall health and well-being.