🦎 General Info

Argentine Black and White Tegus (Salvator merianae) are large, intelligent, and highly interactive lizards native to Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay in South America. They are the most commonly kept tegu species in captivity and are well known for their bold black-and-white patterning, strong personalities, and exceptional intelligence.

Black and white tegus are among the most intelligent reptiles commonly kept, capable of recognizing their keepers, learning routines, and forming strong bonds with consistent interaction. Adults typically reach 4–5 feet, with males being larger, more muscular, and broader-headed than females.

They are powerful diggers and active foragers that require large enclosures, proper humidity, and a well-balanced omnivorous diet. With optimal care, black and white tegus can live 15–20+ years in captivity.

Enclosure

  • Size:

    • Juveniles: 40–75 gallon

    • Subadults: 4 ft x 2 ft x 2 ft

    • Adults: Minimum 6 ft x 3 ft x 3 ft

  • Ideal adult enclosure: 8 ft x 4 ft x 4 ft or larger

    • More space is always beneficial, especially for enrichment, exercise, and natural behaviors.

  • Material:

    • PVC enclosures are ideal (excellent heat and humidity retention, lightweight)

    • Custom wooden or HDPE enclosures also work well

    • Must have excellent ventilation and secure doors — tegus are strong, curious, and capable of forcing weak enclosures

  • Substrate:

    • Deep, moisture-holding substrates are essential due to their burrowing nature.

    • Cypress mulch

    • Coconut husk

    • Reptichip

    • Organic topsoil/sand mix

    • Bioactive setups work very well for adult tegus

    • Aim for 6–12 inches of substrate depth to allow natural digging and burrowing behavior.

  • Décor:

    • Large hides on both cool and warm sides

    • Thick logs or branches

    • Flat stones or basking platforms

    • Plants (live or artificial)

    • Burrows or tunnels

    • Plenty of open floor space for roaming

Temperature & Lighting

  • Basking Spot: 115–125°F

  • Ambient Temperature: 80–90°F

  • Cool Side: 75–80°F

  • Night Temperature: 70–75°F - Do not allow temperatures to drop below 70°F

  • Lighting:

    • High-quality UVB is essential for proper bone health and overall wellbeing

    • Recommended: T5 HO 10–12% UVB

    • Replace UVB bulbs every 6–12 months

  • Day/Night Cycle:

    • 12–14 hours of light

Humidity & Water

  • Humidity: 60–80%

    • Black and white tegus require moderate-to-high humidity to support shedding, digestion, and healthy skin.

  • Maintaining Humidity:

  • Deep, moisture-retaining substrate

  • Daily misting or as needed

  • Large water dish that allows soaking

  • Water:

  • Provide a large bowl for drinking and soaking

  • Change water daily or whenever soiled

  • Tegus often defecate in water, so frequent cleaning is necessary

Diet

  • Type: Omnivores

  • Juveniles:

    • Primarily insect-heavy diet

    • Some fruits offered in moderation

  • Adults:

    • Balanced diet consisting of approximately: Protein: 50–60% Fruits: 10–20% Vegetables: 10–20%

  • Protein Options (variety is important):

    • Dubia roaches

    • Eggs

    • Fish (avoid high-thiaminase species)

    • Rats/mice (appropriately sized and not overfed)

  • Fruits:

    • Berries

    • Papaya

    • Mango

    • Banana

    • Figs

    • Watermelon

    • Vegetables (optional but beneficial):

    • Squash

    • Leafy greens (collard, mustard, turnip)

    • Carrots

    • Green beans

  • Supplements:

    • Calcium powder: 3–4x per week

    • Reptile multivitamin: 1–2x per week

Behavior & Handling

  • Temperament: Black and white tegus are typically calm, curious, and extremely intelligent. They may be defensive when young, especially if not socialized early, but most will tame down significantly with patience, consistency, and trust-building. Tegus are very food-motivated, which can be used effectively for training and bonding.

  • Handling:

    • Start slowly using target training or hand-feeding

    • Allow supervised exploration outside the enclosure

    • Regular interaction helps build trust and calm behavior

    • Always support their body — they are heavy, powerful animals

    • Well-socialized black and white tegus often enjoy human interaction and may actively seek attention from their keepers.

  • Enrichment:

    • Dig boxes and deep substrate

    • Rotating enclosure décor

    • Safe outdoor time in a secure pen

    • Puzzle feeders and training sessions

Health & Lifespan

  • Lifespan: 15–20+ years with proper care

  • Common Health Issues:

    • Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD) – caused by calcium deficiency or lack of UVB

    • Obesity – black and white tegus are enthusiastic eaters; portion control is essential

    • Respiratory infections – often from low temperatures or overly wet enclosures

    • Shedding issues – usually linked to insufficient humidity

    • Parasites – internal or external

  • Signs of Illness:

    • Wheezing or clicking sounds

    • Lethargy

    • Poor appetite

    • Swollen limbs or difficulty walking

    • Stuck shed (especially toes and tail)

    • Sudden weight gain or weight loss

  • Veterinary Care: Professional veterinary care should always be consulted if illness is suspected. Early detection and treatment greatly improve outcomes.

Final Thoughts

Argentine black and white tegus are among the most intelligent and rewarding reptiles available in the hobby. While they require significant space, commitment, and long-term planning, their intelligence, personality, and potential for strong human bonds make them exceptional companions.

With proper heat, humidity, diet, enrichment, and consistent interaction, black and white tegus truly earn their reputation as gentle giants and lifelong reptile partners..