Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I'd like to set up a realistic enclosure for a couple banded geckos. What is ok and not ok as far as substrate, plants, stuff like that.

I've used a fine silica sand made for saltwater aquariums with bandeds, and it worked very well for them. The fine particle size makes impaction very unlikely. Folks may also recommend slate as a substrate for a naturalistic display.

As far as plants, most desert plants require VERY high levels of light...be sure that you can provide intense full-spectrum lighting if you're going to try to use live plants. Aloe vera is an example of a good species to use in a banded tank--it is hardy, non-toxic, and can take the arid conditions well. Cacti aren't recommended, as the spines may injure the animals. Many succulents are highly toxic. Be sure that live plants do not raise the humidity levels in your tank too high.
Fake plants are a good alternative, and easy to clean and care for...something to consider.
Be sure that any rocks you use are firmly affixed to the cage walls or each other, if you are going to stack them--digging or pushing might result in a tragedy, otherwise...the lizards can be stronger than folks give them credit for.
Coleonyx love cholla cactus skeletons, and they make interesting and attractive additions to a desert display, too--they can often be found in pet stores. If you provide some interesting driftwood and branches in various sizes, you'll find that the geckos do a surprising amount of climbing as well.
If you don't use pre-fab molded hides, there are a variety of creative means you could use to disguise the necessary dry hides and humid hide--just be sure you have easy access to clean everything.