>>First off, is there one agreed-upon caresheet out there that has 100% correct information on how to take care of them? All the right temps, humidity, diet requirements, etc?

>>

>>Second, and I know tegus are different than monitors, but are they ok without UVB like monitors are? or should I pick up a mercury vapor? I see most care sheets say they do need the UVB but I just want to make sure.

>>

>>Thanks for any information!



No, I don't think there is one agreed upon caresheet with 100% correct info! Everyone picks everything apart and has issues with different details.



Studies have been done on Savs that demonstrates that they an adequately absorb dietary Vit D as efficiently as providing a UV. Other studies have been done on green igs that demonstrate herbivorous reptiles cannot absorb dietary Vit D. No such studies have been done on tegus and since they are omnivores, do not fall into either category. Most serious keepers advise both dietary Vit D in the form of a powder supplement or fish oil plus a UV. As long as the dietary supplement is not grossly overdosed, both are fine.



There are many cases of hypocalcemia reported in tegu husbandry, so it seems to be "better safe than sorry" until more info is made available. Along with Vit D in whatever form, adequate calcium must be available as well.

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