[Airedale]

So, this summer, I was at our local pet store, and noticed a little house gecko shedding in a small arboreal enclosure. I also noticed the rather sinister looking tarantula it was sharing its enclosure with. I figured since the little gecko couldn't climb very well with his shed, it was only a matter of time before he became a snack. So... I bought the little one. Yes, it was an impulse buy, but I had an extra tank laying around so I let him settle in.

Now for my questions.
I don't know exactly what species it is, though surfing the web turned up pictures that looked like him, which the most exact looking one named as a "Flat-Tailed House Gecko". Anyone know what species this might be?
It seems fairly healthy, but now I am curious on how to sex it. Any tips on that, since idk if it has preanal pores like a leo, lol.
Also, what should I name it?

Thanks!

[gekkoterra]

If you think it looks like the "flat tailed house gecko," then that is Hemidactylus (formerly Cosymbotus) platyurus. Do a search using either Hemidactylus or Cosymbotus as the genera and platyurus as the species. Both sexes appear to have pre-anal/femoral pores however males' are more prominent, also the hemipenes are almost visible when viewing their underside. A hemipenal bulge is present, but not very obvious. They can be difficult to sex.

It is a nobel gesture for you to want to save the gecko from the tarantula. Although it may have been an intended meal for the tarantula, as many large species will prey on small geckos. Either way, you saved your little geckos life. House geckos are great. They are brave little guys, with lots of personality, and don't particularly mind sharing their lives with humans. As far as naming it, that should be something special between you and your gecko. Enjoy your new friend, though inexpensive, they can have more personality than a gecko costing 200 times what you probably paid for him.
Ashton
Vivarium Essentials

[thorrshamri]

I agree on the ID. These geckos are quite hardy, provided they are housed in humid vertical glass vivaria (with proper ventilation) with 75-80°F at night and up to 90-95°F at the basking spot during the day. Make sure to have a fecal sample checked by a vet, as it probably carries internal parasites.

For the name, according to the origin of the species, why not an Asian/Thai name? Túkkæ means "Gecko" in Thaï and that could be an option