Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have had this plated for about 3 months. About a week ago i noticed some of his scales were loose. Instead of just shedding off with normal black scales underneath the old ones, the scales were white. the spot is about an inch in diameter. I dont understand why this happened or if the black scales will grow back. Thanks for any advice.
Craig

I'm assuming since you said 'black scales' you have a Gerrhosaurus validus? You might also have G. nigrolineatus or G. flavivulgaris though. At any rate, they all have a variable pattern with scales that have black on them as well as lighter colors like yellow or even whitish color. If it's isolated scales it could just be a color change occuring with increasing age. Or, it could be an infection of some sort that has affected the underlying scales. Usually though, an infection of the keratinous layer covering the osteoderms will be fairly widespread. Is the white scale area the same in appearance to normally colored surrounding scales or does it have a rough or pitted appearance? A pitted appearance could also be the result of the aforementioned infection or if you're housing multiple individuals together, bite wounds.
-----
Matt Campbell
Animal Keeper, Small Mammal/Reptile House
Lincoln Park Zoo Chicago, Illinois

Assistant Curator
Wildlife Discovery Center at Elawa Farm
Lake Forest, Illinois

Yes, it is a G. Nigrolineatus. The white scales seem to be the same texture as the black scales. There is no moisture or sign of infection. It is not a bite wound because the lizard is caged by itself. I have no idea the age of the lizard, maybe the pet store sold me an elderly specimen, it does look full grown. The lizard seems very healthy. Thank you for your input
Craig