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Argentine Tegu - Tupinambis merianea
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Although they start out small, Argentine tegus grow to be the largest species of tegu. Serious thought must be put into the amount of space these lizards require. Adults require a minimum 1.2 x 2.4 meter (4 x 8 foot) enclosure. (Photo: Joshua V. Feltham)
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Young Argentine tegus should be fed a primarily carnivorous diet for their first year. They should be fed crickets, meal worms, wax worms, silk worms, butter worms, and pink mice. Chicken, fish, eggs, and even cheese can also be offered. (Photo: Joshua V. Feltham) | Adult tegus have a large distinct head. Males develop large fat deposits at the back of their lower jaw that makes their heads look disproportionately large relative to their body. This sub-adult male is starting to develop his jowels. (Photo: Joshua V. Feltham) |
Young tegus may be nervous at first but the quickly learn to trust people. Defense typically involves hissing and tail whipping. Gentle interaction and persistent handling will produce a mild mannered easy to manage lizard. (Photo: Joshua V. Feltham)
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General Information
Distribution — Southeastern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, Uruguay, eastern Argentina
Habitat — Primarily found in savannah and grassland habitats.
Adult Size — 1-1.4 m (39-55 inches)
Temperament — Young tegus may be nervous at first but the quickly learn to trust people. Defense typically involves hissing and tail whipping. Gentle interaction and persistent handling will produce a mild mannered easy to manage lizard.
Longevity — Argentine tegus live for 15-20 years in captivity; however, there are reports of animals living more than 20 years.
Captive Care
Rating: 3 — Argentine tegus are still imported from wild populations in relatively large numbers. Domestically bred animals can make good pets for experienced keepers that have the space to properly house them.
Diet: Hatchlings and Juveniles (up to 1 year of age) - crickets, meal worms, wax worms, silk worms, butter worms, and pink mice. Chicken, fish, eggs, and even cheese can also be offered. Sub-adults and Adults (1+ years) - chicken, fish, eggs, occasional rat or mouse, bananas, strawberries, cantaloupe, apples, and dark leafy greens.
Temperature: Ambient temperature 20 to 28C (72-82F) with basking area of 30 to 33C (86-92F)
Required Space: Tegus are relatively large lizards and Argentine tegus are the largest species of tegu. They require a lot of space to explore. Adults require a minimum 1.2 x 2.4 meter (4 x 8 foot) enclosure. The enclosure should include a large hide preferable placed under the floor of the enclosure to simulate a burrow.
Breeding: Hibernation is a must for this species throughout life and in particular if you intend to breed them. Bert Langerwerf (pers. com.) feels that even one missed winter of hibernation may eliminate any chance of successful breeding. Both animals should be maintained at 4-16C (40-60F) for four to six months. Breeding typically takes place about two weeks after the animals are brought out of hibernation. Gravid females must be provided with a large nestbox to lay their eggs.
Special Requirements: Aside from a large enclosure, Argentine tegus need UVB lighting and a varied diet. A hide box that simulates a burrow will also ensure that the lizard feels secure in its enclosure. Moist substrate such as soil or moss should be used to line the hide box. The humidity it creates will help with the shedding process. Finally, this species should be cooled for 4-6 months of the year especially if breeding is to be successful.
Sources (Suggested Reading):
Balsai, Michael. 1997. General Care and Maintenance of Popular Monitors and Tegus. Advanced Vivarium Systems, Inc. Santee, CA. Pp. 170
Langerwerf, Bert. 2002. A Tegu for You? in Reptiles: Guide to Keeping Reptiles and Amphibians. November, 2002. Fancy Publications Inc., Mission Viejo, CA. Pp 72-85.
Rogner, Manfred. 1997. Lizards, Volume 2. Krieger Publishing Company, Malabar, Florida. Pp. 308.