Often Considered Pests, IPB University Experts Reveal the Benefits and Risks of Geckos in the Home
The presence of geckos in the home is often considered a nuisance, whether because of their appearance, droppings, or sounds. However, according to Dr Achmad Farajalah, a lecturer at the Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) at IPB University, lizards actually play an important role as natural insect controllers, provided their population is kept in check.
He explained that there are four common types of lizards found around homes. Cosymbotus platyurus is often seen on walls near lights, while Gehyra mutilata prefers dark areas like kitchens or behind cabinets. Hemidactylus frenatustypically resides outside on wooden walls or ceilings, whereas Cyrtodactylus marmoratus is commonly found on fences or trees.
“Cosymbotus and Gehyra are the two types that are most likely to cause nuisance because they are active near humans. The level of nuisance depends largely on individual perception,” he explained.
Regarding health risks, Dr Achmad emphasized that the assumption that geckos carry diseases has not been proven. Research from the University of Malaya showed that 20-60 percent of geckos carry Salmonella in their intestines.
However, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have confirmed that the main risk of food contamination comes more often from poultry and raw ingredients, not lizards.
In addition, for some people, lizards also trigger extreme fear or herpetophobia. Studies in Malaysia and India show that 15–20 percent of the population, especially women and children, experience excessive fear of lizards that can interfere with daily activities.
“Extreme cases have even occurred in Malaysia (2019) and India (2021), where individuals with phobias had to undergo therapy or lose academic opportunities because of the presence of lizards,” he added.
To control their population, Dr Achmad recommends environmentally friendly measures such as maintaining cleanliness in the home, sealing entry points, reducing bright lights at night, and regularly cleaning gecko droppings.
He also mentioned several herbal ingredients that can be used to repel geckos, such as bay leaves, camphor, and coffee powder.
“As long as they do not disturb comfort or cause health issues, lizards should not be aggressively exterminated. They play an important role as natural insect controllers,” he concluded. (AS) (IAAS/STD)
