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Species profile · Iguanidae

Iguana iguana

Complete care sheet for the green iguana — husbandry parameters, diet and breeding.

Iguane vertAmerican IguanaGrüner Leguan
Adult size
1.5–2 m
Lifespan
15–20 yrs
Difficulty
Advanced
Temperament
Diurnal
Activity
Diurnal
Reproduction
Oviparous
01

Husbandry requirements

Green Iguana — origin: Central and South America (Mexico to Brazil) — humid tropical forests, often near water. Species listed under CITES Appendix II (EU Annex B): verify the source..

Terrarium temperature gradient

Night min22 °C
Cool side26–28 °C
Warm side30–33 °C
Basking spot35–40 °C

Heliophilic species: a genuine, powerful hot spot is essential, with lamps shielded against burns.

Enclosure (adult)
250 × 150 × 180 cm

Very large custom-built arboreal enclosure (often a dedicated room or aviary)

Large, sturdy branches and elevated basking platforms; commercial terrariums quickly become unsuitable.

Humidity
60–80 %

Humid environment; misting and a large water source aid hydration and shedding.

Substrate
Unfertilised topsoilCypress mulchBare bottom (easy to clean)
UVB
Recommended

ESSENTIAL and high-intensity — UVB (Ferguson zone 3–4, T5 HO 10–12%); otherwise, rapid and frequent MBD.

Water source
Always available

Large container of clean water; the animal bathes and hydrates in it; clean frequently.

Origin
Iguanidae

Central and South America (Mexico to Brazil) — humid tropical forests, often near water. Species listed under CITES Appendix II (EU Annex B): verify the source.

02

Feeding & health

Diet

Strict herbivore — Calcium-rich leafy greens (turnip greens, dandelion, watercress, mallow, hibiscus) + assorted vegetables; NO animal protein

Animal protein causes gout and kidney damage. Calcium/D3 supplementation according to UVB.

Breeding
Oviparous

Clutch 20–40 eggs/young. The female digs to lay: provide a deep egg-laying site. Incubation ~90–100 days around 30 °C.

Health watch points
  • Metabolic bone disease (lack of UVB/calcium — very common)
  • Gout / kidney failure (excess protein, dehydration)
  • Thermal burns (unshielded lamps)
  • Egg retention (dystocia) without a laying site
  • Abscesses and injuries from aggression
05

Frequently asked questions

Answers to the most common questions about keeping the green iguana.

How big does an adult Green Iguana get?▾
An adult Green Iguana typically measures 1.5–2 m (total length including the tail; males larger and more massive, up to ~2 m.).
What temperature and humidity does a Green Iguana need?▾
A gradient of roughly 26–28 °C on the cool side to 30–33 °C on the warm side, with a basking spot of 35–40 °C. Humidity 60–80 %.
What does a Green Iguana eat?▾
Strict herbivore: Calcium-rich leafy greens (turnip greens, dandelion, watercress, mallow, hibiscus) + assorted vegetables; NO animal protein.
Is the Green Iguana a good reptile for beginners?▾
Advanced level. Diurnal and arboreal; can grow large and territorial, with adult males potentially aggressive during the breeding season (bites, tail whips). Tames with regular handling but remains a demanding animal, all too often poorly kept. Plan ahead: a lifespan of 15–20 yrs.

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