The result of combining the Enigma and the Eclipse. Therefore, an Enigma gecko with a black Full Eye or Snake Eye is produced. There are Mack Snow Enigmas with completely black eyes, however, the Eclipse is not required for this combo.
With its distinct black eyes and intricate patterning, the Black Eyed Enigma is a highly sought-after morph by reptile enthusiasts and collectors. In this review, we will take a closer look at the appearance, temperament, and care requirements of the Black Eyed Enigma Leopard Gecko Morph and discuss its potential as a pet.
Whether you are a seasoned reptile keeper or new to the hobby, this review will provide valuable information to help you decide if the Black Eyed Enigma Leopard Gecko is the right pet for you.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts About Black Eyed Enigma Leopard Gecko
| Appearance: | Black eyes and typically a light beige or cream color, with dark brown or black markings. |
| First Produced: | Mark Bell, 2006 (produced the first Enigma) |
| Rarity: | Average |
| Genetics: | Random or Characteristic linked to a phase |
| Price Range: | $225 – $350 |
| How do you Breed a Black Eyed Leopard Gecko? | This can be done through various breeding combinations, such as breeding two Black Eyed Enigmas together, or breeding a Black Eyed Enigma with a gecko that carries the enigma and black eye genes |
| Combinations with a Black Eyed Leopard Geckos | Breeding two Black Eyed Leopard Geckos together”heterozygous” combination. |
| Issues with a Black Eyed Leopard Geckos | When compared to other morphs, they are more sensitive to light.Since they are nocturnal, you can miss out on seeing some of their interesting activities.They grow too stressed to be held for an extended period of time. |
| How Much Does a Black Eyed Leopard Gecko Cost? | $225 – $350 |
Characteristics of a Black-Eyed Enigma Leopard Gecko
The Black Eyed Enigma Leopard Gecko Morph is known for its distinct black eyes and intricate patterning. The base color of the Black Eyed Enigma is typically a light beige or cream color, with dark brown or black markings that form a swirling, blotchy pattern across the body and tail. The eyes are a striking feature of this morph, with pupils almost entirely black, giving the gecko a mysterious and enigmatic appearance. The Black Eyed Enigma also has a relatively stocky build, with a wide head and short, thick legs.
Genetic Traits
In genetics, a “phase” refers to an individual’s specific combination of alleles (variants of a gene). In Leopard Geckos, certain traits, such as patterning or color, are controlled by multiple genes and can have multiple possible allelic combinations or “phases.”
For example, the patterning of a Leopard Gecko may be influenced by the “enigma” gene, which has two possible alleles: one that produces a pattern and one that does not. The combination of these alleles an individual carries is called its “phase” for the enigma gene.
In the case of the Black Eyed Leopard Gecko case, the black-eye trait is controlled by a single gene and is therefore considered “characteristic.” This means that if a Leopard Gecko carries the black eye gene, it will always express the trait visually, regardless of the presence or expression of other genes.
- Eclipse: recessive
- Enigma: dominant
Combinations for a Black-Eyed Leopard Gecko
To produce Black Eyed Enigma Leopard Geckos, breeders need to mate two geckos that carry the enigma and black eye genes. This can be done through various breeding combinations, such as:
- Breeding two Black Eyed Enigmas together: This is the most straightforward way to produce Black Eyed Enigmas. If both parents carry the enigma and black eye genes, then all of the offspring will also carry these genes and be Black Eyed Enigmas.
- Breeding a Black Eyed Enigma with a gecko that carries the enigma and black eye genes but does not express them visually: This is known as a “heterozygous” combination. In this case, the offspring will have a 50% chance of being Black Eyed Enigmas and a 50% chance of expressing the enigma and black eye genes in a different combination (such as a Black Eyed Leopard Gecko that does not have the enigma pattern).
Habitat and Environment
As Pet Lover
To provide the best care for your Black Eyed Enigma leopard gecko, you should:
- Choose a secure, escape-proof enclosure large enough for the gecko to move around and explore.
- Provide a substrate, such as a coconut coir, paper towels, or a reptile-specific substrate that is easy to clean and does not harbor harmful bacteria or parasites.
- Create a temperature gradient by using a heat lamp or ceramic heater to create a basking spot and provide hide boxes or other structures for the gecko to retreat to on the cooler side of the enclosure.
- Offer clean, fresh water at all times, and change the water and clean the dish regularly.
- Feed a diet of live insects, such as crickets, mealworms, or wax worms, along with a calcium supplement to support the gecko’s overall health.
As Breeder
As a breeder, providing the best possible care for your Black Eyed Enigma leopard geckos is important to ensure their health and well-being. To house your Black Eyed Enigma leopard geckos as a breeder, you should:
- Choose a secure, escape-proof enclosure large enough for the geckos to move around and explore. A 20-gallon tank is a good size for one or two adult leopard geckos.
- Create a temperature gradient by using a heat lamp or ceramic heater to create a basking spot and provide hide boxes or other structures for the geckos to retreat to on the cooler side of the enclosure.
- Feed a diet of live insects, such as crickets, mealworms, or wax worms, along with a calcium supplement to support the gecko’s overall health.
- Monitor the geckos closely for signs of illness or other health problems, and consult a veterinarian if necessary.
Food & Diet
You can give your Black Eyed Enigma Leopard gecko a variety of commercially available live insects, including locusts, wax worms, mealworms, butter worms, and crickets.
They enjoy insects very much and will surely love a tasty treat of moist, farm-raised crickets packed with vital nutrients. Despite this, you ought to refrain from giving them larger, wild-caught insects like cockroaches, butterflies, moths, and fireflies. Don’t ever give your gecko any fruits, either.
Final Thoughts
The Black Eyed Enigma is a genuinely one-of-a-kind morph that will stand out in any collection because of its distinctive black eyes and exquisite patterning. In addition to its remarkable appearance, the Black Eyed Enigma is noted for its generally quiet and submissive disposition, making it an excellent choice for beginner reptile keepers or those seeking a low-maintenance pet.
The Black Eyed Enigma Leopard Gecko may be a gratifying and entertaining companion for reptile enthusiasts of all skill levels, given the proper care.