Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello!

I was wondering if anyone here can give me some information on the plated lizard. I own an iguana, so they're a little bit alien to me

The lizard is a yellow throated plated lizard, he's about 20-21 inches long (so I assume he's an adult). I am pretty sure that the lizard is male, as he has some large femoral pores.

In my AP biology class, my instructor ordered some 'organisms' to work with from a provider for biology supplies, Wards. The plated lizard arrived in a cloth sack, and is very very skinny. His nose is rubbed raw, but there are no signs of infection and it is dried and scabbed nicely (if you could even say that!). I know, the whole biology thing is kind of sketchy, and I am not completely happy with the whole situation. I went out and bought two dozen crickets to feed him. I put 3 in his tank, and he didn't touch them. I got some tweezers and held the crix in front of his face, and got him to eat somewhere between 6-8 crix.

The sheet that he came with said that they eat every other day, but I'm pretty sure that the thing is bull-ony(as i attempt to keep this post not-vulgar, lol ).

Can you help me get a healthy environment set up for this guy? I wanna pack some weight on him. Would anyone oppose feeding wax worms to fatten him up a little bit? In moderation, of course, as I hear they can be addicting.

I would really appreciate if you could tell me:

What to feed
Cage requirements
Temp requirements
Lifespan
Hardiness
and any Other things to know

I really appreciate any info I can get! The internet has given me skimpy results in my searches for good husbandry on these animals.

The following caresheet has excellent information on Gerrhosaurus spp. Also, a sub-link to this has flavigularis particulars:

http://www.nafcon.dircon.co.uk/gerrhosaurs1.html

I have had a Gerrhosaurus major for the last 5 years. They are excellent lizards pets. They are very tame, but are usually shy & can be skittish. They are omnivores; feeding on both insects, vegetables and fruit. It is important to provide adequate space & hiding areas--that are safe & secure.

Due to the poor condition (anorexia) which you described that your lizard arrived in, I would highly suggest to have it de-parasitized by a reptile vet. Most of these lizards are caught in the wild & tend to have parasites & the stresses of captivity can weaken them further.

Goodluck to you & your lizard(s).
Link

I agree, you should take him to the vet. Here is some more links:

www.unc.edu/~dtkirkpa/stuff/plated.html

www.angelfire.com/or/JPV/liza.html

-----