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Argentine Tegu
AdvancedSalvator merianae
Large lizard from South America. Highly intelligent and can bond like dogs. Omnivorous and adaptable but grows large.
Difficulty
Advanced
Temperature
24〜35℃
Lifespan
15-20 years
Size
90-140cm
Humidity
60〜80%
Diet
Omnivore (fruits, insects, meat, eggs)
About
The Argentine black and white tegu (Salvator merianae) is a large lizard native to central and eastern South America, including Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Adults typically reach 100–150 cm in total length and are covered in black-and-white bead-like scales. Tegus are noted for their high intelligence among lizards and can form strong bonds with their keepers, often compared to dogs in terms of trainability. They are omnivorous, consuming insects, small mammals, birds, eggs, fruits, and vegetables. Tegus undergo a period of winter dormancy even in captivity. Adult tegus require very large enclosures or room-sized spaces. They are increasingly popular as pets due to their tractable temperament and cognitive abilities, though their large size demands serious commitment from keepers.
Basic Info
Origin
Central and South America
Lifespan
15-20 years
Size
90-140cm
Temperature
24〜35℃
Humidity
60〜80%
Diet
Omnivore (fruits, insects, meat, eggs)
Care Guide
Space
Adults need 180cm+ cage or room-free
Temperature
References & Sources
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.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Salvator merianae Duméril & Bibron, 1839
Synonyms: Lacertus tupinambis Lacépède, 1788, Tupinambis merianae (Duméril & Bibron, 1839), Tupinambis teguixin (Gray, 1845), Tupinambis teguixin buzioensis Müller, 1968, Tupinambis teguixin sebastiani Müller, 1968
Authority databases: GBIF · Reptile Database
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
CITES 附属書IIIUCN LC · Least Concern
日本では未判定外来生物(特定外来生物ではない)。
Sources: CITES Checklist (Tupinambis spp. Appendix II; Salvator は同義) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Argentine Tegu Listings
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