Argentine Black and White Tegu
Salvator merianae
Conservation Status
Least ConcernReptilia · Teiidae
About
The Argentine black and white tegu, also commonly known as the Argentine giant tegu, the black and white tegu, the blue tegu, and the huge tegu, is a species of lizard in the family Teiidae. The species is the largest of the "tegu" lizards. It is an omnivorous species, which inhabits the tropical rain forests, savannas, and semideserts of eastern and central South America. It is native to south and southeastern Brazil, Uruguay, eastern Paraguay, Bolivia, and Argentina.
Fun Fact
Argentine tegus are unique among lizards for warming themselves above ambient temperature during breeding season using metabolic heat — a form of endothermy unprecedented among lizards.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Occur in the southern United States and the Brazilian coast.
Diet
Eat a wide range of invertebrates, including insects, annelids, crustaceans, spiders, and snails.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance