Hydrosaurus weberi

Paludarium / large planted tropical terrarium with an extensive aquatic zone

Minimum for a single adult; larger is preferable. Provide height for solid perches (semi-arboreal) above the water, as well as opaque visual barriers and dense planting to limit stress and abrasion of the snout against the glass.

High tropical humidity, sustained by the large body of water and mistings, with good ventilation to avoid stagnant air and skin/respiratory infections.

A moisture-retaining substrate, with good drainage around the aquatic section. Provide a deep, loose land area as an egg-laying site for the females.

High UVB essential (a heliophilic species): T5 HO 6-12% tube depending on distance, aiming for a UVI of about 4-6 at the basking spot. Replace the source every 9-12 months.

A large aquatic section is mandatory: the animal swims and defecates in the water. Dechlorinated, filtered and tempered water (~26-28°C), renewed and cleaned very frequently to prevent bacterial dermatitis. Depth sufficient for full immersion.

Indonesia — endemic to the North Moluccas (Halmahera, Ternate, Tidore, Bacan)

Omnivore (mostly herbivorous as an adult) — Insects (crickets, roaches), crustaceans and small fish; leaves, flowers, fruit and assorted vegetables.

A more plant-based diet as it grows. Dust prey with calcium/D3 and gut-load them. Avoid excess fatty prey and sugary fruit.

Clutch 8–16 eggs/young. Incubation of about 60-90 days at 28-30°C. Provide a humid, deep egg-laying site. Reminder: a protected genus (CITES Appendix II) — any breeding/transfer must comply with the regulations.

• Snout (rostrum) trauma and abrasions from rubbing against the glass in this shy species
• Metabolic bone disease (MBD) from a UVB or calcium deficiency
• Bacterial dermatitis linked to soiled water or poorly managed humidity
• Internal parasites, frequent in wild-caught specimens
• Respiratory infections (unsuitable temperature/humidity, stagnant air)