Origin
Hemidactylus frenatus is native to Southeast Asia. The common house gecko was introduced to the United States as escapes or intentionally released pets from the pet trade as well as in shipping containers.

Life Cycle
H. frenatus are 3-6 in. (7.5-15 cm) in length with males larger than females. Common house geckos are gray or light brown in coloration on the top of the body with a greenish iridescence and white underside. Common house gecko is extremely adaptable. It preys on insects and spiders and is commonly found in warm, humid areas with rotting materials. Females lay 2 eggs per clutch on a solid surface during the breeding season. Sexual maturity is approximately 6 months to a year after hatching. The life span of H. frenatus is 5 years.

Distribution
H. frenatus is present in Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas.

Control Efforts
H. frenatus threaten native gecko species and displaces other reptiles.

http://www.tsusinvasives.org/home/database/hemidactylus-frenatus
 

Maps

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Invasive Listing Sources

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• Everglades Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area
• Florida Invasive Species Partnership
• Nonnative Invasive Species in Southern Forest and Grassland Ecosystems

References

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Common Name Reference: Integrated Taxonomic Information System on-line database.

Scientific Name Reference: Integrated Taxonomic Information System on-line database.