Cappuccino, Super Cappuccino & Frappuccino Crested Geckos – Last Updated November 2025

Introduction

Over the past few years the Cappuccino gene has become one of the most talked‑about topics in the crested gecko community. What started as a handful of dark hatchlings in South Korea quickly grew into a worldwide project involving major breeders, debates about genetics, and ethical concerns about the viability of the gene’s super form. Initially marketed in 2020 as “melanistic crested geckos,” these animals have since been properly renamed to Cappuccino crested geckos and Super Cappuccino or melanistic because the animals are not true melanistic reptiles. A cross between Cappuccino and Lilly White has also acquired the name Frappuccino.

As of late‑2025 there is a large amount of information – and misinformation – circulating about these morphs. This guide synthesises breeder experiences, foundation genetics papers and community discussions to provide a balanced, evidence‑based overview. It covers the gene’s origin, inheritance patterns, identification markers, market pricing, potential health issues, breeding ethics and newer combinations such as the Sorak (Super Cappuccino × Lilly White) and Luwak (Sable × Cappuccino). Whenever possible, the article cites primary sources from breeders and foundation genetics guides to ensure accuracy and to help readers verify information.

Origins and Discovery

Reptile City Korea & the “Cappuccino Line”

The Cappuccino gene was first recognised by Reptile City Korea (RCK) when they noticed unusual dark hatchlings emerging from a group they labelled their Cappuccino line. The project began when RCK attempted to prove out geckos that resembled axanthics. They had never purchased axanthics but produced geckos with similar appearances. Because their business mainly supplied pet stores, these “axanthic‑like” animals were outcrossed for several generations without being bred together; unknowingly they were building a diverse gene pool for what would later become the Cappuccino project..

The term Cappuccino was coined by RCK breeders after they set up several groups to test the genetics. They further subdivided their stock into Cappuccino light (possible hypo) and Cappuccino dark/charcoal groups to help track traits. When two Cappuccino geckos were paired in November 2020, the first Super Cappuccino (then called melanistic) died in the egg. A sibling hatched the following day and displayed dark coloration, reduced crests and solid black eyes; RCK now knows this surviving baby was a Cappuccino. In February 2021 a second clutch from a different pair produced the first viable Melanistic (Super Cappuccino) hatchling, demonstrating that the gene behaved consistently across different bloodlines. By March 2021 further clutches produced melanistic babies from different Cappuccino pairs, proving the mutation was genetic rather than a random anomaly.

RCK’s early reports on Instagram show that they initially kept the project secret to gather more data, but other breeders who purchased 1.2 Cappuccinos (1 male, 2 females) started producing melanistic hatchlings, forcing the project into the public eye. As a result, the gene was discussed widely on social media, and RCK opted to release information gradually to clear up speculation.

From “Melanistic” to Cappuccino Crested Gecko

When the first dark hatchlings appeared, many hobbyists referred to them as melanistic crested geckos because of their nearly black bodies and eyes. However, geneticists and breeders recognised that the animals did not behave like true melanistic reptiles – they had translucent skin and reduced scales rather than an overproduction of melanin. Foundation genetics writers therefore recommend the name Super Cappuccino for the homozygous form, noting that it aligns with naming conventions used for other reptile morphs (e.g., Super Dalmatian or Super Hypo). The term melanistic is now considered a misnomer and is generally discouraged in favour of “Super Cappuccino”.

Genetic Basis and Inheritance Patterns

Incomplete Dominance

Genetic analyses and breeding trials indicate that Cappuccino is an incomplete dominant gene (codominant in herpetoculture terminology). This means that heterozygous animals (Cappuccino) display phenotypic changes while homozygous animals (Super Cappuccino) show a more extreme phenotype. Morphpedia notes that the genotype is denoted C, with the heterozygous form producing the Cappuccino phenotype and the homozygous form producing the Super Cappuccino.

Breeding results support this inheritance pattern. Tenny’s Crested Geckos reports that when a Cappuccino is bred to a normal crested gecko, roughly half of the offspring are Cappuccinos and half are normal geckos. This 1:1 ratio matches expectations for an incomplete dominant trait. The same article notes that the gene functions similarly to the Lilly White gene and the Banana gene in ball pythons as further examples of how the gene is transferred through codominance with more well know morphs or reptiles. 

Because the gene is incomplete dominant, breeding two Cappuccinos statistically produces a clutch where 25 % are Super Cappuccinos (melanistic), 50 % are Cappuccinos, and 25 % are normals. The homozygous Supers account for the dark, nearly translucent animals that sparked the gene’s fame.

Non‑allelic With Other Known Traits

Foundation genetics guides emphasise that the Cappuccino gene is non‑allelic with other crested gecko traits such as Phantom, Lilly White or Axanthic. This means the gene is located at a different genetic locus and thus can combine independently with other incomplete dominant or recessive traits. This independence has allowed breeders to create several combination morphs (e.g., Cappuccino × Phantom) without interfering with the Cappuccino gene itself.

Phenotypic Ratios & Breeding Trials

The RCK team’s breeding trials provide insight into Cappuccino’s inheritance. Their first Capp × Capp pairing in November 2020 produced one Super Cappuccino that died in the egg and one Cappuccino. In February 2021 a different Capp × Capp pairing produced a surviving melanistic hatchling. In March 2021 a pair labelled “charcoals” (Cappuccino + Phantom carriers) produced two melanistic hatchlings. With multiple breeding groups producing identical Super Cappuccino hatchlings, RCK concluded that the gene was an incomplete dominant trait rather than a recessive mutation.

Identifying Cappuccino Crested Geckos

Key Visual Markers

Cappuccino geckos exhibit several traits that distinguish them from normal or Phantom geckos. According to breeders interviewed by Tenny’s Crested Geckos, the most reliable marker is a “Y”‑shaped pattern at the base of the tail. This white Y‑mark often fades with age but is commonly visible on juveniles. Other traits include:

1. White flecks up the spine and splotching on the lower tail – small white or light‑coloured flecks appear along the dorsum and may lead up the spine.
2. Reduced lateral pattern – Cappuccinos typically show little to no side patterning, giving them a relatively plain lateral appearance.
3. Bright white tail base – Morphpedia and the Cappuccino white paper emphasize that baby Cappuccinos display a bright white at the base of the tail and a dark tip. Adults may lose some contrast, but the tail often remains darker than in non‑Capp geckos.
4. Dark base colours – many Cappuccinos have grey, black or dark brown bases; pinstripes may widen and spread along the dorsum and can be yellow or white. However, with continued outcrossing, base color is no longer a strict marker because some Capps now exhibit lighter or red bases.
5. Tongue colour – some Cappuccinos and Phantom Cappuccinos have tongues that appear near black but change colour quickly.

Importantly, these markers are not always present or may change as the animal matures. Breeders therefore recommend holding back questionable animals to confirm the gene via breeding or to observe trait development over time.

Misidentification & Proof via Breeding

Because the Cappuccino gene produces dark colours and a white tail base, other morphs (e.g., Phantom, Charcoal or Black Flame) can superficially resemble a Cappuccino. The Cappuccino white paper notes that bright white on the tail base alone is not proof; the gecko must display multiple Capp markers or be produced from a known Cappuccino line. If an animal is suspected of carrying the gene but has unknown lineage, breeders must breed it to a verified Cappuccino and produce a Super Cappuccino to prove the trait. This conservative approach helps prevent mislabeling and protects the credibility of the morph.

Market and Pricing

The early scarcity of Cappuccino geckos produced astronomical prices. Tenny’s article reports that in 2021 adult Cappuccino geckos sold for US $10,000–12,500, Frappuccino geckos for US $20,000–25,000, and melanistic/Super Cappuccino geckos for US $25,000–30,000. Additional import/export fees from South Korea ranged from $3,000–$5,000. Early US purchasers paid around $28,000 for an adult male Cappuccino and the first US‑born melanistic sold for $27,000.

By 2024–2025 prices have dropped as more breeders produce Cappuccino and Frappuccino geckos, but they remain premium animals due to demand and the novelty of the gene. Some marketplaces (e.g., MorphMarket) still do not allow sales of Super Cappuccino geckos because of health concerns, though heterozygous Cappuccino and Frappuccino animals are listed. Prospective buyers should research the breeder’s reputation, verify the animal’s lineage and consider ethical implications before purchasing.

The Super Cappuccino (Melanistic)

Phenotype & Structure

The homozygous form of the Cappuccino gene produces Super Cappuccino (also called melanistic or translucent) geckos. These animals have extremely dark or translucent skin, minimal crests and solid black eyes at hatching. As they age, the eyes often develop marbling or “snake eyes” – partial dark and partial white areas. Their skin is unusually soft and “silky,” leading breeders to compare them to the silky back bearded dragon super form. RCK breeders have observed that the skin may be missing a layer, giving the animals a translucent or leucistic appearance.

Health Concerns: Reduced Nostrils & Spectacle Eye

Community discussions and foundation genetics data show that Super Cappuccino geckos can experience morphological abnormalities, particularly reduced nostril size and a condition called spectacle eye. Lil Monsters’ Super Cappuccino PSA notes that many Super Cappuccinos have reduced or absent nostrils; a thin skin membrane prevents nostrils from forming properly. Some animals show no nostril openings at all, which may impair breathing and moisture exchange. In addition, the PSA reports cases of spectacle eye, where fluid accumulates under the clear scale covering the eye (the “spectacle”), possibly due to tear duct obstruction. The condition is not unique to Cappuccinos but appears more common when nostrils are reduced. 

In a sample of nearly 100 Super Cappuccinos and Soraks (Super Cappuccino × Lilly White), approximately 11 % showed nostril issues and less than 3 % developed spectacle eye. These defects occur only in homozygous animals; heterozygous Cappuccinos or Cappuccino combos do not display reduced nostrils. The issue is not due to inbreeding, because reduced nostrils have been produced even in outcrossed animals. However, direct inbreeding may exacerbate structural problems and is discouraged.

Community Response and Ethics

Because of these health concerns, many breeders have questioned whether it is ethical to intentionally produce Super Cappuccino geckos. The Morphpedia entry notes that MorphMarket does not support sales of Super Cappuccino animals. Lil Monsters’ PSA urges breeders to evaluate Super Cappuccino hatchlings carefully and to consider lowering incubation temperatures (69‑71 °F), which may reduce nostril issues. The PSA also emphasises avoiding direct inbreeding and exploring outcrossing to animals with better structure. Breeders are encouraged to seek veterinary assistance for spectacle eye and to report findings to improve collective knowledge.

Some rumours, such as claims that melanistics cannot hatch without egg cutting or that all Supers are infertile, have been debunked by RCK and Foundation Genetics. The Cappuccino white paper lists these rumours and provides evidence refuting them: melanistic babies have hatched without human intervention, and there is no confirmed infertility in Supers (although long‑term breeding trials are ongoing). Both breeders and researchers caution that the gene remains under study and that producing Supers should be approached with caution until more data are available.

The Frappuccino Crested Gecko (Cappuccino × Lilly White)

Genetics and Appearance

A Frappuccino results from pairing a Cappuccino gecko with a Lilly White gecko. Both genes are incomplete dominant and non‑allelic, therefore, offspring inherit one allele from each parent. The two genes interact to produce geckos with vivid yellow or fluorescent cream patterns on a darker background. In RCK’s early breeding experiments, Cappuccino × Lilly pairs produced babies with a unique look that combined the white/tail markers of Cappuccino with the high‑contrast pattern of Lilly White. An Instagram friend suggested the name “Frappuccino,” and the term stuck.

Frappuccino hatchlings display brighter white or yellow at the tail base than standard Lilly Whites, plus bold patterning on the dorsal and lateral surfaces. Phantom Frappuccinos (Cappuccino × Lilly White × Phantom) show traits from all three genes. Identification can be tricky because the combination of two incomplete dominant genes produces a continuum of expressions. The Cappuccino white paper advises comparing suspected Frappuccinos to known siblings and holding back unusual animals for confirmation.

The Super Form: Sorak (Super Cappuccino × Lilly White)

When a Super Cappuccino is crossed with a Lilly White, the offspring are heterozygous Cappuccino and heterozygous Lilly White in the same gene locus, producing a unique form called Sorak Crested Gecko. The Morphpedia entry notes that Soraks (sometimes spelled Sorok or Sorak) exhibit reduced nostril size similar to Super Cappuccino and may experience the same health issues. Because the cross requires a Super Cappuccino, many breeders hesitate to produce Soraks given the ethical concerns around producing Supers.

Some breeders who have produced Soraks report that they have the dramatic contrast of Lilly Whites combined with the translucent dark body of Super Cappuccinos, often appearing grey, silver or black with fluorescent white/yellow patches. However, published data on Soraks are sparse, and the animals are not widely available for sale.

Sable, Luwak and the Cappuccino Complex

The Sable Trait and Super Sable

Around 2022–23 another incomplete dominant gene called Sable entered the hobby. Super Sables are beige to cream‑coloured geckos with velvet‑like scales and a skull‑shaped head pattern, distinctly different from Cappuccino Supers. Some similarities between Sable and Cappuccino (dark bodies and reduced crests) led hobbyists to speculate that they might be the same gene.

Foundation Genetics’ Super Sable information clarifies that Sable and Cappuccino are allelic but distinct. In genetics, allelic traits occur at the same locus but involve different mutations, so they can form a complex. When allelic traits are combined, they do not produce the expected super form; instead, heterozygous animals display a mixture of both traits. The article explains that breeding a Sable to a Cappuccino produced a new phenotype called Luwak.

Luwak: Sable × Cappuccino

The Luwak Crested Gecko is a heterozygous animal carrying one copy each of the Sable and Cappuccino mutations. Hyunmoo (Moomoo_saurus) paired a Sable and a Cappuccino and did not produce any Super Cappuccino or Super Sable hatchlings. Instead, the babies had features of both traits, confirming that the traits are allelic and behave as an incomplete dominant complex. The resulting Luwaks show a slight Sable pattern suppressed by Cappuccino coloration. They retain normal nostril sizes and do not exhibit the structural issues seen in Super Cappuccinos.

Because Luwaks do not involve homozygous Cappuccino alleles, they avoid the nostril and spectacle‑eye issues seen in Super Cappuccinos. Breeders have verified that Luwaks are fertile and produce predictable phenotypes, making them an exciting but relatively safer addition to the gene pool. However, because Sable and Cappuccino are allelic, you cannot produce a “Super Cappuccino × Super Sable”; only the single‑gene super forms (Super Sable or Super Cappuccino) and heterozygous combinations (Luwak) are possible.

Additional Combos and Emerging Genes

Phantom Cappuccino and Phantom Frappuccino

Because Cappuccino is non‑allelic with the Phantom gene (a recessive trait), breeders have created Phantom Cappuccino and Phantom Frappuccino combinations. Phantom reduces pattern and darkens coloration. When combined with Cappuccino, it produces very dark geckos with minimal dorsal patterns and near‑black tongues. Phantom Frappuccinos incorporate Cappuccino, Lilly White and Phantom genes; they display unique patterning and colour combinations and may require careful identification.

Highway Crested Geckos and Cold Fusion Crested Geckos

A more recent morph called Highway (also known as Cold Fusion) is being explored as part of the Cappuccino/Sable allelic complex. Breeders have reported that the Super Highway shows reduced nostrils and declining health similar to Super Cappuccinos – evidence that Highway may be allelic with Cappuccino and Sable. Because data are limited and most discussions occur on social media, this guide does not provide definitive conclusions but urges readers to consult foundation genetics updates and avoid breeding two untested allelic traits together.

Sorak Crested Gecko (Super Cappuccino × Lilly White)

As discussed earlier, the Sorak Crested Gecko is the super form of the Frappuccino gene set. Early reports indicate that Soraks may have nostril reduction and spectacle‑eye issues similar to Super Cappuccino. Until more data are available, most breeders recommend avoiding Sorak production.

Sable × Lilly White (Super Sable Lilly) and Luwak Lilly Crested Gecko

Other allelic combinations include Super Sable × Lilly White and Luwak × Lilly White. These forms are being explored for their unique patterns and colours. The super form of Sable × Lilly may show white and cream colours with reduced patterning; the Luwak × Lilly (sometimes called Luwak Lilly Crested Gecko) produces striking pattern and appears to avoid nostril issues. As of 2025 these combos are still experimental, and breeders should monitor emerging foundation genetics reports.

Notable Breeding Projects & Case Studies

The story of the Cappuccino gene is not complete without mentioning the breeders whose work built and then popularised the morph. While Reptile City Korea (RCK) discovered the gene, numerous other keepers have since added data, produced notable animals and shared information publicly. Highlighting their experiences provides context for how the community arrived at today’s understanding.

Reptile City Korea (RCK)

RCK’s role as the originator of the Cappuccino gene cannot be overstated. As described earlier, their “Cappuccino dark/charcoal” groups produced the first Super Cappuccinos in late 2020. RCK intentionally kept the project quiet until several unrelated pairings produced melanistic hatchlings, at which point they released a white paper documenting breeding results and urging caution. The paper debunked rumours (for example, that Supers cannot hatch without egg cutting or are always female) and emphasised outcrossing and genetic proof. By sharing both successes and failures, RCK set a standard for transparency that remains critical for evaluating new morphs.

Altitude Exotics (AEGeckos)

Shortly after RCK’s announcement, several U.S. breeders invested heavily in the project. One of the most visible is Altitude Exotics (AEGeckos). In late 2021 AEGeckos’ Brian bought eight Cappuccino geckos and four Super Cappuccino geckos for a reported $30,000. This significant investment drew attention to the morph and underscored its high value. In a video shared in early 2022, Brian explained how to identify Cappuccinos: the base of the tail in the “bird poop” area is extremely white; the dorsal pattern fades with age; and the morph shares some similarities with axanthic geckos. He also announced plans to breed Cappuccinos and Super Cappuccinos in 2023 and teased a Super Dalmatian Cappuccino project. His willingness to discuss the gene publicly helped demystify its appearance and inspired many to follow suit.

AEGeckos also commented on the Super Cappuccino phenotype. At hatching, Supers have solid black eyes, but these eyes develop marbling as the gecko ages. Brian noted that the animals’ translucent skin makes internal organs visible and jokingly referred to seeing “their ONE brain cell”. This observation aligns with RCK’s statement that the super form may lack a skin layer and emphasises the need for gentle handling.

Specialty Herps

Specialty Herps were among the first to import Cappuccino geckos into the United States and publicly document their breeding. According to an updated report from Tenny’s Crested Geckos, three adult female Cappuccinos were offered by a South Korean breeder for $10,000–$12,000 each (including import/export fees) and Specialty Herps spearheaded the U.S. breeding project. Earlier data indicate that a U.S. breeder paid $28,000 for a single Cappuccino pair and that the first U.S.‑produced melanistic sold for $27,000, demonstrating the intense early demand. Specialty Herps produced multiple Super Cappuccinos from Capp × Capp pairings, confirming the codominant nature of the gene. Their openness helped establish price benchmarks and validated that the morph was reproducible outside Korea.

Lil Monsters Reptiles & Foundation Genetics

The team at Lil Monsters Reptiles (LM Reptiles) plays a dual role as breeders and educators. Through their Foundation Genetics initiative they publish articles that critically evaluate new traits and propose standards for proving genetics. Their Super Cappuccino PSA compiled data from nearly 100 Super Cappuccino and Sorak animals, reporting that approximately 11 % displayed reduced nostril size and fewer than 3 % had spectacle eye. They emphasised that these issues occur only in supers, not in heterozygotes or Luwak. LM Reptiles used this data to call for cautious breeding: avoid direct inbreeding, lower incubation temperatures (69‑71 °F) and outcross to robust lines.  Their guidance has become a touchstone for breeders navigating the ethical aspects of the morph.

Hyunmoo & the Luwak Discovery

Hyunmoo (aka @Moomoo_saurus) contributed to the Cappuccino story by pairing the Cappuccino gene with another incomplete dominant morph called Sable. His experiments showed that breeding a Sable to a Cappuccino produced offspring with a blend of both traits - later termed Luwak - without producing any Super Cappuccino or Super Sable hatchlings. This finding established that Sable and Cappuccino are allelic and belong to the same genetic complex. The resulting Luwak geckos exhibited Sable‑like patterns suppressed by Cappuccino coloration and did not display nostril issues. Hyunmoo’s work paved the way for safer, structurally sound Cappuccino combinations.

Husbandry & Care Considerations

While the Cappuccino gene does not radically alter a crested gecko’s husbandry requirements, there are nuances that keepers should consider.

• General housing: Cappuccino and Frappuccino geckos thrive in the same setups as other crested geckos - enclosures should provide vertical climbing space, secure ventilation, safe climbing structures (e.g., branches, cork bark) and plenty of foliage for hiding. The recommended temperature range is 72–78 °F with a nighttime drop, and humidity should cycle between 50 % and 80 %, allowing for complete sheds. Because Super Cappuccinos have delicate, translucent skin, it is especially important to maintain proper humidity to avoid stuck shed.
• Substrate & hydration: A moisture‑retentive but well‑draining substrate (e.g., bioactive soil mix or coconut fibre) helps maintain humidity. Provide a shallow water dish and mist the enclosure daily or use an automatic mister. Geckos will lick droplets from foliage. For Cappuccinos, adequate hydration is crucial for skin integrity.
• Diet: Feed Cappuccino geckos a balanced diet of commercially formulated crested gecko food supplemented with occasional gut‑loaded insects. Calcium and vitamin D3 supplementation should mirror that for standard crested geckos. There is no evidence that Cappuccinos require special diets beyond proper nutrition.
• Handling & stress: Cappuccino geckos, especially Supers, have soft skin and may be more prone to damage if rough‑handled. Keep handling sessions brief and gentle. Because Supers may have reduced nostrils, avoid exposing them to dusty substrates or dry conditions that could irritate their respiratory system.
• Health monitoring: Observe geckos regularly for weight stability, shed quality and normal respiration. In Supers, check for nostril openings at hatch and watch for any fluid buildup around the eyes. Seek veterinary advice if a gecko shows signs of distress, persistent stuck shed or breathing difficulty.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between Cappuccino and Super Cappuccino? Cappuccino is the heterozygous form of an incomplete dominant gene. It is characterised by a white tail base, reduced lateral pattern and dark base colours. A Super Cappuccino (sometimes called melanistic or translucent) is the homozygous form; it has extreme dark coloration, translucent skin and solid black eyes at hatching. Supers often have reduced crests and may develop health issues such as reduced nostrils or spectacle eye. 

Is Cappuccino the same as Sable? No. Although Cappuccino and Sable are allelic and belong to the same genetic complex, they are distinct mutations. When combined, they produce a heterozygous morph called Luwak that shows traits from both but avoids the nostril issues of Super Cappuccino. 

Are Super Cappuccinos ethical to produce? Opinions vary. Data from LM Reptiles indicate that about 11 % of Supers have reduced nostrils and fewer than 3 % develop spectacle eye. Because the prevalence of defects is significant and the trait is cosmetic, many breeders choose to avoid creating Supers. Others continue to produce them under controlled conditions, carefully monitoring health and outcrossing to improve structure. Buyers should research breeders’ practices and decide according to personal ethics.

Do Cappuccino geckos carry other hidden traits? Like any crested gecko, a Cappuccino can carry recessive genes (e.g., Phantom, Axanthic) or incomplete dominant traits (e.g., Sable). The Cappuccino gene itself does not mask or modify those traits; combinations such as Phantom Cappuccino or Frappuccino are possible. Always ask breeders for lineage details.

How can I prove a possible Cappuccino? Visual traits alone can be misleading because some non‑Capp geckos exhibit white tail bases or dark colours. The definitive method is to pair the suspected Cappuccino with a known Cappuccino and look for Super Cappuccino offspring. Holding back questionable animals and producing test clutches helps prevent misidentification.

Is the Cappuccino gene recessive? No. It is an incomplete dominant (codominant) trait. Breeding a Cappuccino to a normal gecko yields roughly 50 % Cappuccino and 50 % normal offspring, while Capp × Capp pairings produce 25 % Super Cappuccino, 50 % Cappuccino and 25 % normal geckos.

Looking Ahead to 2025 and Beyond

As of October 2025 the Cappuccino project is still relatively young, with continuous developments and unanswered questions. Several trends are likely to shape its next chapter:

• Price Stabilisation: After initial hype, the cost of Cappuccino and Frappuccino geckos has begun to normalise. While premium examples still command high prices, increased availability has made the morph accessible to more hobbyists. Super Cappuccino animals remain rare because many breeders avoid producing them due to ethical concerns and marketplace restrictions.
• Expanding Allelic Complex: New allelic mutations (e.g., Highway/Cold Fusion) are suspected to interact with the Cappuccino/Sable complex. Ongoing work will determine whether these genes are allelic and how their super forms manifest. The resulting complex may resemble the Blue‑Eyed Leucistic complex in ball pythons, producing multiple super forms with varying viability.
• Diversifying Colour Lines: Early Frappuccinos were mostly brown and highlighter yellow. Breeders like Tenny's Crested Geckos are now exploring red, orange and tricolour lines, combining Cappuccino with red crested gecko and tricolour bloodlines. This will broaden the palette of available combinations and help distinguish Cappuccino animals from similar morphs.
• Emphasis on Education: Foundation Genetics and other educators will continue to publish research and guidelines. By improving genetic literacy and establishing standards for proving traits, the community can minimise misinformation and ensure responsible development.
• Enhanced Ethical Frameworks: As more data on Super Cappuccino health outcomes become available, breeders may adopt formalised ethics statements. Some may call for industry‑wide bans on selling Supers, while others may develop best practices for their care. The outcome will likely influence how other high‑risk morphs are handled in the future.

Community Perspectives and Breeder Commentary

Balancing Hype with Caution

The rapid spread of Cappuccino information across social media created hype and also confusion. Foundation Genetics notes that the drive to be first or to prove new morphs often leads to forced agendas and misinformation. Without a standard method for analysing genetic traits, breeders may misinterpret results and propagate false claims. The article stresses the need for a community‑wide standard for evaluating traits and inheritance. 

Lil Monsters Reptiles emphasises that misinformation spreads when breeders bypass necessary steps such as outcrossing, tracking lineage and verifying phenotypic ratios. To combat this, they advocate education on genetics basics and encourage breeders to test hypotheses using proper controls. 

Rumours and Clarifications

As new morphs emerged, rumours circulated widely. The Cappuccino white paper lists several persistent myths:

• “Super Cappuccinos cannot hatch without assistance” – RCK has documented multiple melanistic hatchlings emerging unaided; only one baby drowned after pipping.
• “Super Cappuccinos are all females” – breeders report more males than females in their samples, but fine skin makes it difficult to sex juveniles.
• “Melanistics are created in a lab or via hybridization” – RCK strongly denies these claims and states they do not have the resources or desire to create such hybrids.
• “Melanistics are infertile” – foundation genetics writers note that fertility has not been fully tested but there is no evidence of infertility.

Dispelling these rumours helps steer the community toward evidence‑based discussions. Breeders are encouraged to share data openly and to correct misinformation when they see it.

Market Trends and Accessibility

As the gene becomes more widespread, heterozygous Cappuccino and Frappuccino geckos have become more accessible and affordable. However, the relative scarcity of proven breeders and the novelty of the gene mean prices remain high compared with common morphs. Buyers should verify that any animal marketed as Cappuccino, Frappuccino or Luwak is produced from known lines and ideally accompanied by documentation or breeder guarantees.

Ethical Breeding and Recommendations

Prioritise Animal Welfare

Given the structural issues associated with Super Cappuccino and Sorak animals, breeders must prioritise animal welfare over novelty. Ethical guidelines include:

1. Avoid deliberately producing Supers until more data on nostril reduction and spectacle eye are available. Use caution when pairing Cappuccinos together; heterozygous Cappuccino × normal pairings are safer.
2. Evaluate nostrils at hatching – check that both nostril openings are present. If a hatchling shows reduced nostrils, monitor shedding closely and consider veterinary advice.
3. Outcross to improve structure – pair Cappuccinos with animals known for robust structure and large nostrils (e.g., strong head structure lines). Avoid direct inbreeding.
4. Lower incubation temperatures – breeders have reported fewer nostril issues when eggs are incubated at 69–71 °F.
5. Do not cut eggs unnecessarily – foundation genetics notes that egg‑cutting rumours are unfounded; most melanistic babies can hatch unaided.
6. Keep detailed records – track parentage, incubation conditions and hatchling outcomes. Share data with the community to aid research.

Responsible Selling and Buyer Education

If you sell Cappuccino or Frappuccino geckos:

• Clearly label animals as heterozygous or possible carriers; avoid marketing animals as Cappuccino without proof.
• Provide lineage information and, if possible, photographic evidence of parents.
• Disclose any health issues observed in the line (e.g., nostril reduction in Supers).
• Educate buyers about ethical breeding practices and potential risks of producing Supers.

The Future of Cappuccino & Related Morphs

Continued Research & Outcrossing

The Cappuccino project is less than five years old, and many questions remain. Ongoing research focuses on clarifying the genetic interactions between Cappuccino, Sable and new allelic mutations (Highway/Cold Fusion). The emerging complex may become analogous to the Blue‑Eyed Leucistic complex in ball pythons, where several allelic traits produce different super forms and combination morphs. Breeders are encouraged to continue outcrossing Cappuccino and Sable to unrelated lines to maintain genetic diversity and to help identify the full spectrum of expressions.

Education and Genetic Literacy

Foundation Genetics emphasises the importance of genetic literacy in the reptile hobby. New morphs often attract speculation, hype and marketing. By studying basic genetics, breeders can better understand inheritance patterns, allele interactions and probabilities. Standardising how traits are proven (e.g., using test pairings and phenotype ratios) will reduce misinformation and help maintain the hobby’s integrity.

Potential for New Combos

As more breeders work with Cappuccino, additional combinations will inevitably emerge. Some future directions include:

• Axanthic Cappuccino – combining the Cappuccino gene with the recessive Axanthic trait to produce blue‑grey geckos devoid of red/yellow pigment. RCK intentionally kept Axanthic out of their colony to keep projects clear, but others may explore this combination.
• Cold Fusion (Highway) Complex – exploring whether Cold Fusion/Highway is allelic with Cappuccino and Sable. Early evidence suggests similar super‑form issues (reduced nostrils), but formal studies are underway.
• Designer Luwak & Luwak Lilly – breeding Luwak (Sable × Cappuccino) with Lilly White, Phantom or Axanthic genes to create visually striking but structurally sound animals.

Conclusion

The discovery of the Cappuccino gene and its super form has added a fascinating chapter to crested gecko genetics. Heterozygous Cappuccino geckos exhibit distinctive patterns and colours that are popular with hobbyists, and combinations such as Frappuccino and Luwak expand the palette of possibilities. However, the gene also illustrates the ethical complexities of producing homozygous forms. Data collected by breeders and foundation geneticists show that Super Cappuccino animals often have reduced nostrils and may develop spectacle eye. These issues raise questions about animal welfare and responsible breeding.

The community’s response – pausing sales of Super Cappuccinos, promoting outcrossing and transparency, and educating breeders – demonstrates a maturing understanding of reptile genetics. As of October 2025 the gene is still being researched, and the story of Cappuccino is far from finished. By following ethical guidelines, sharing data and fostering critical thinking, breeders and enthusiasts can ensure that the Cappuccino project continues to advance responsibly, adding to the rich diversity of crested gecko morphs without compromising the health of these remarkable reptiles.

Update: January 22, 2022 

We've gotten a lot more information and seen a huge influx of Cappuccino's and Super Cappuccino's (Melanistics) turning up on Instagram and Facebook. 

Super Cappuccino Crested Gecko

What is a Super Cappuccino crested gecko? What is a Melanistic Crested Gecko? 

A super cappuccino crested gecko is the new name being used instead of the melanistic crested gecko name. 

Why? Because the name 'melanistic' cappuccino turned out to be poorly chosen. As soon as Super Cappuccino's (aka Melanistic) started flooding into the US we immediately heard them say it was not a Melanistic. 

Many in the US were refereing to the Super Cappuccino as a Leucistic Crested Gecko, which is probably also a solid name for this mutation. 

Super Cappuccino's are being born in various colors with the latest one being shown off by everybody's favorite crested gecko breeder, Altitude Exotics. 

Brian at Altitude Exotics posted a TikTok on January 18th, 2022 announcing his $30,000 purchase of this Super Cappuccino.

Look at how happy he is even after dropping a huge bag like that! Don't mind Brian's hair in this snap of his video, he looks better with a Mohawk, imho. 

I haven't reached out to Brian, yet to get the 411 but I will soon and we'll get some more information on this beautiful little Super Cappuccino crested gecko. 

I'm speculating where he got it but I know  Donghyun @Cre.Moa (on Instagram) posted a similar looking crested gecko on his Instagram in November.

You can see the posted picture farther down in this article. Whether this is the same one, I am unsure. 

I also recently saw three adult female Cappuccinos being offered by a new breeder in South Korea for around $10,000 - $12,000 each which would include import/export fees. 

If you recently have purchased a Cappuccino or Super Cappuccino and you'd like your experience and thoughts to be included in this ongoing article, please reach out to us. 

If you are looking to buy a Cappuccino or Super Cappuccino crested gecko in the US, I'd suggest you speak with my friends at Specialty Herps. They were first to import Cappuccino's into the US and have quite a huge 2022 breeding project going on. 

Update: November 16, 2021 

A lot has happened in the last six months since I last updated this article. 

We now know that the melanistic crested geckos is the super form of the Cappuccino Crested Gecko.

This means that it is a co-dominant trait which basically means that if you breed a Cappuccino to any normal crested gecko you will statistically get 1/2 Cappuccino Crested Geckos and 1/2 normal crested geckos.

If you are familiar with how the Lilly White Crested Gecko gene passes on, the Cappuccino gene passes the exact same way. 

If you are not familiar with lilly whites, the Cappuccino gene works the same way it does in Banana Ball Pythons. 

This is great news for the entire crested gecko community because we now have three proven reproducible genetics; Axanthic (Recessive), Lilly White (Codom) and now the Melanistic (Codom). 

Melanistic Crested Geckos For Sale Out Of Korea

In the summer of 2021, I spoke with Reptile City Korea and Donghyun about purchasing a Cappuccino or melanistic crested gecko directly from them and it was not a straightforward process. 

Did anyone else reach out to them about buying into this project? If so, please leave your experience below. 

When I spoke with them, I was told that I'd need to go through an exporter as they did not export. 

However, Donghyun reported that he had problems finding a reliable exporter in 2021 and felt like some of the exporting fees were too high and variable. 

He has obtained an exporter license and is planning on exporting in the Spring of 2022. 

We look forward to seeing what Donghyun produces and has available in 2022 with the exporting issues resolved. 

Can I Buy A Melanistic Crested Gecko In The US? 

Yes you can! If you have a big bag of cash. 

Specialty Herps out of the beautiful State of Washington was asked to pay $30,000 in early 2021 for an adult male Cappuccino crested gecko. 

They were able to negotiate it all the way down to $28,000 and the first Cappuccino arrived into the US one week later. 

They bought their Cappuccino crestie from an undisclosed breeder in South Korea that was not one of the two originally credited with the first melanistic crested gecko births. 

A few months later the same breeder offered Specialty Herps an adult pair of Cappuccinos that they also purchased for an undisclosed amount. 

Thus far in 2021 Specialty Herps has produced the first US Made and Born Melanistic crested geckos and Cappuccino crested geckos. 

Recently, they sold the first US produced Melanistic Crested Gecko for $27,000.

So if you are considering a new car or a getting into the Melanistic crested gecko game, you may only be able to do one. 

I'm unsure how much they are asking for Cappuccinos but you can be sure it is less than melanistic crested geckos. 

Considering they paid more for a Cappuccino then they sold their first Melanistic, I think their prices are probably going to be pretty darned fair.

If you are located in the US or even abroad and are looking to get into the melanistic crested gecko game, you now have another option, contact Specialty Herps.