Ouroborus cataphractus

Desert / semi-arid terrarium with a horizontal orientation, fitted with a stack of stone slabs creating numerous crevices (saxicolous species).

Minimum dimensions for a small group; increase the floor area and the number of crevices according to the number of individuals. Stack stable stones/slate (wedged against the floor, never placed on loose substrate, to prevent any collapse) providing narrow gaps where the group takes shelter. Keeping is subject to regulation (CITES II).

Generally dry, well-ventilated environment. Nonetheless provide a humid hide (moss/slightly moistened substrate in a crevice) and a light morning misting for hydration and shedding.

Draining mineral substrate reproducing the rocky soil of the Karoo. Most of the setup rests on the stacks of stones: it is the crevices, not the depth of substrate, that structure the terrarium.

Essential. Full-sun heliophilic species: high-index UVB (tube/bulb of the 10-12% type, Ferguson zone 3-4), placed above the basking spot with a shaded retreat area. Replace the source every 6-12 months.

A small dish of fresh water renewed regularly; the animal also hydrates via its prey and the droplets from a light morning misting.

South Africa, western Cape: the semi-arid Succulent Karoo / Namaqualand region, with winter rainfall, on rocky outcrops and crevices. PROTECTED SPECIES: listed on CITES (Appendix II) and protected under South African law. Captive breeding is very rare (1 young/year): almost all specimens in the trade are WILD-CAUGHT, often illegally. Acquire only captive-bred animals with traceability and legal documentation.

Insectivore — Crickets, roaches (Blaptica dubia), small locusts, various larvae; termites are the staple food in the wild.

Varied prey of appropriate size, dusted with calcium (with D3 depending on UVB) and occasionally with vitamins. Feed regularly but without excess; reduce intake during the winter cooling.

Extremely low reproductive rate: most often a single young per litter, once a year or even every two years. A seasonal cooling is generally needed to trigger the cycle. This low fecundity explains the scarcity of captive-bred specimens and the poaching pressure on wild populations.

• Chronic stress and anorexia (especially when kept solitary or in wild-caught individuals)
• Internal parasites (nematodes, protozoa) common in wild specimens, requiring a faecal examination
• Metabolic bone disease (UVB and/or calcium deficiency)
• Dehydration and renal disorders / gout linked to an unsuitable environment
• Thermal burns (under the lamp) and shedding retention