This is really a great debate. I think the best way to settle it would be to attempt some longer range studies.

In my experience ants have been integral to solid health, but I have talked to quite a few folks that have been able to keep HL's alive fairly long term without them. I have not heard yet of anyone who has had any HL's on a non-ant diet long term that has had breeding success, which to me is a sign of optimum health. That said, this is probably a species specific requirement to whatever degree. So results are sure to vary. I believe sunlight is also very key and may rank in importance with a proper diet.



It seems there are a few folks out there who are having breeding success and it would really be great to get your input for phrynosoma.com. (please contact me via email if you have an interest in adding to the site information at all ) To truly assess the diet requirement we really have to go by the facts we can find (literature) or observe. So that said, I would like to offer a challenge in the form of a formal study over at least a 2 year period (3 would be better) to see what growth rates are and breeding success on various diets, for the species of HL's that are being bred successfully, keeping all other factors even.

I would be happy to coordinate the study guidelines, etc... (and welcome any help from all with an interest)

Any takers?
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