Argentine Black and White Tegu
Characterized by unusually high level of intelligence, the Argentine Black and White Tegus are native to South America, and are the world’s largest species of tegu lizards.They make good pets, as they tend to become attached to their owners.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Subphylum | Vertebrata |
Class | Reptilia |
Order | Squamta |
Suborder | Lacertilia |
Infraorder | Scincomorpha |
Family | Teiidae |
Genus | Salvator |
Species | S. merianae |
Scientific Name | Salvatormerianae |
Other Names | Argentine giant tegu |
Length | 3– 4.5 feet (92 to 140 cm) |
Coloration | Black base with white spots and patterns |
Distribution | East and central South America |
Habitat | Tropical rain forests, savannas, and semi-deserts |
Diet | Invertebrates, including insects, spiders, and snails; also eat fruits and seeds |
Breeding Season | Mid-March to mid-April |
Clutch Size | 36-70 eggs |
Mode of Reproduction | Oviparous (egg laying) |
IUCN Conservation Status | Least Concern |