Argentine Tegu - Tupinambis merianea
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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 20o to 28oC (72o-82oF) with basking area of 30o to 33oC (86o-92oF)

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 4o-16oC (40o-60oF) 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 it's 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.

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