Golden Ratio Calcium & Phosphorous

The "golden ratio" for calcium and phosphorus refers to the ideal ratio of these two minerals in the diet of reptiles, specifically those that require a balanced calcium to phosphorus ratio for proper bone health and overall well-being.

* 2:1 is optimal for reptiles *

The recommended golden ratio for calcium to phosphorus in the diet of most reptiles, including insectivorous species like geckos, is generally around 1:1 to 3:1, with calcium being the higher value. This means that there should be approximately two to three times more calcium than phosphorus in the diet.

Maintaining the proper calcium to phosphorus ratio is crucial because reptiles need calcium for bone development, muscle function, and various physiological processes. However, excessive phosphorus in the diet can interfere with calcium absorption, leading to health issues like metabolic bone disease (MBD), which is a common concern in reptiles.

To achieve the golden ratio, it's essential to provide a diet that is rich in calcium and low in phosphorus. Feeder insects should also be appropriately gut-loaded or dusted with calcium supplements before being fed to reptiles.