Liasis mackloti

Robust horizontal terrarium of the tropical/semi-aquatic type, with a large water body and hides at both ends of the thermal gradient.

Minimum dimensions for an adult; larger is always preferable (aim for an enclosure length >= 2/3 of the snake's length). Provide a very well-secured lid (a powerful species). NON-VENOMOUS species (constrictor). Listed on CITES Appendix II; specimens of Australian origin are protected and banned from export — favour captive-bred, traceable and documented animals over wild-caught ones (often stressed, parasitised and dehydrated).

Humid environment (marked aquatic tendencies). Maintain 60-80%, with a peak during sheds. Ensure good ventilation to avoid stagnation and scale rot.

Substrates that retain moisture without becoming permanently waterlogged. Remove soiling immediately; a water-soaked substrate encourages dermatitis and scale rot. Avoid toxic softwood shavings (cedar/pine).

Not strictly necessary (nocturnal species); low-intensity UVB lighting (2-5% index) remains beneficial and helps with the day/night cycle, provided shaded hides are available.

A large, clean water container, spacious and stable enough for the animal to immerse itself completely (semi-aquatic tendencies: it bathes readily). Change the water often, as this python frequently defecates and bathes in it.

Southeast Asia and Australasia: Indonesia (Lesser Sunda Islands — Timor, Savu, Wetar…), New Guinea and the far north of Australia. A species tied to wetlands, riverbanks and monsoon forests.

Carnivore — Rodents (mice, then appropriately sized rats), occasionally birds; opportunistic in the wild (rodents, birds, reptiles).

Prey with a diameter close to the widest part of the animal. Very strong feeding response: feed with tongs/hook and caution. Do not overfeed — obesity is common in this voracious species. Thawed/warmed prey recommended.

Clutch 8–15 eggs/young. Clutch of 8-15 eggs on average. The female incubates her eggs by coiling around them (maternal incubation); hatching after about 55-65 days at ~31-32 °C. A cooling period/seasonal cycle stimulates breeding.

• Respiratory infections (unsuitable temperature/humidity, poor ventilation)
• Scale rot / dermatitis on substrate that is too damp or dirty
• Incomplete sheds (dysecdysis) from a lack of humidity
• External (mites) and internal parasites, especially in wild-caught animals
• Stomatitis (mouth rot) and obesity from overfeeding