There is not much information on them because they are a recently described (discovered) species, only having been described in 1997 by Böhme and Ziegler. Mark Bayless and John Adragna wrote an English language Vivarium article in 1999 on this species.

There are many specimens that come through where I live. I have followed one specimen of a high yellow coloration for over 6 months, that is not at all shy, allows handling and does not even run away from capture. This is an exception, most V. indicus complex monitors are shy, including most V. melinus. I have come across other high yellow V. melinus that have been docile. Maybe the hot tropical climate suits them?

Baby monitors are virtually impossible to sex and adults can also be very difficult. To date, I am not aware of any captive breeding of V. melinus, although someone else may have information.

Cheers,

Michael

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