(Tupinambis merianae) & (Tupinambis rufescens)

There are 2 types of Argentine Tegus. Black & White Tegus and Red Tegus. The reds are found further north in Argentina and the Black & Whites are found all throughout Argentina. Both types reach an adult size of up to 4’ and weigh up to 20lbs. Males tend to be larger and heavier than females.

They require temperatures of 85-95 degrees during the day. They should also be provided with a basking spot that reaches up to 110 degrees. They can handle a drop to about 70-75 at night. Humidity should be 60%-80%.

UVB lighting is what allows them to naturally produce Vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 allows them to absorb the proper amounts of calcium. A UVB light should be on 12-14 hours every day. Without UVB lighting they will eventually get metabolic bone disease. This causes the bones to get soft and eventually kills them. Also it is very important to change your UVB light every 6-8 months, after this time the light stops producing adequate UVB.

Adult tegus should be kept in a very large cage. They are very active lizards. The cage should at least be 6’ long by 2’ deep. Babies can be started off in about a 20gallon.

The best type of bedding would be bark. Bark allows a higher humidity because of its ability to hold water.

A calcium and vitamin supplement should be put on all insects and fruits. When fed mice or rats, no supplement is needed.

Their diet should consist of a variety of foods. They feed on pretty much anything, mice, rats, fish, hard-boiled eggs, crickets, super worms, night crawlers, beef heart, and any fruits. They should be fed a mixture of all these types. They can be fed from 4-7 times a week. Fruit should make up about 25-50% of the diet.