
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Epicrates cenchria
A beautiful boa with rainbow iridescence. Body shimmers in seven colors at different light angles, from Brazil.
The Brazilian rainbow boa (Epicrates cenchria) is a medium-sized boa native to South America, found primarily in Brazil and surrounding countries in humid tropical forest and savanna habitats. Adults typically measure 120–200 cm in total length. The species is renowned for its striking iridescent sheen: microscopic ridges on the scales cause structural coloration that produces a rainbow-like shimmer across the reddish-brown body in light. The dorsum is patterned with dark-edged circular markings. Rainbow boas are nocturnal and feed on small mammals, birds, and lizards in the wild. They require high humidity of 70–80% in captivity, which is essential for successful shedding, along with temperatures of 25–30°C. Juveniles can be defensive, but adults generally become more placid with regular handling.
Origin
South America, primarily Brazil
Lifespan
20-30 years
Size
120-200cm
Temperature
25〜32℃
Humidity
40〜70%
Mice, Rats
90cm+ enclosure with hides
レインボーボアは単純メンデル遺伝の確立モルフが少なく、Albino(T-/T+=Caramel)・Hypo・Anery が数少ない証明済み劣性の柱。High Red などのハイカラー系の多くは累代選抜(polygenic)で発色を濃くしたもの。
Sources: StarDust Scales - Rainbow Boa Morphs / Reptile Cymru - Brazilian Rainbow Boa Care Guide
A curated selection of notable morphs. Inheritance modes are a breeding-planning guide; actual appearance varies with combos.
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Epicrates cenchria (Linnaeus, 1758)
Synonyms: Boa aboma Daudin, Boa annulifer Daudin, 1803, Boa cenchria Linnaeus, 1758, Boa cenchris Gmelin, 1788, Boa ternatea Daudin, 1803, Coluber tamachia Scopoli, 1788
Authority databases: GBIF · Reptile Database
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Checklist (Boidae spp. Appendix II) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Maintain high humidity (70-80%)
Frozen mouse about once a week
Rainbow iridescence indicates health status
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Rainbow Boa is 25〜32℃. Recommended humidity is 40〜70%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Rainbow Boa is 20-30 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Rainbow Boa typically reaches 120-200cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Rainbow Boa feeds on: Mice, Rats. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Rainbow Boa varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026