Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Tupinambis is a lizard genus which belongs to the family of Teiidae. These large, South American lizards are commonly referred to as tegus. Tegus are usually primarily carnivorous, except for T. rufescens and T. merianae. Tegus fill the same ecological niche as monitor lizards and are an example of convergent evolution. Most tegus are opportunistic feeders, accepting a wide variety of foods. Tegus' diets can consist of crickets, mealworms, an occasional mouse, fish, hard boiled eggs, chicken, etc. Certain fruits and vegetables may be offered as well (for example, strawberries, mangoes, papaya, banana) but usually will only be eaten by the red or Argentinian black and white tegus. The Colombian tegus tend to be almost entirely carnivores/insectivores. Here you may post messages or questions pertaining to all aspects and issues regarding the keeping, breeding, health, and conservation of Tegus. If you are a new user to this forum, please take the time to review the rules first before posting: Terms of Service.