Varanus acanthurus

Terrestrial/saxicolous desert-type terrarium: very large floor area, stable rock stacks and deep substrate for burrowing.

Minimum dimensions for a single adult; bigger is always better. Floor area takes precedence over height. Provide a deep substrate (30-60 cm) for burrows, multiple hides and firmly wedged rocks (never placed on the loose substrate, risk of collapse/crushing). Individual keeping is recommended outside of breeding.

Generally dry conditions, but the deep layers of the substrate and a humid hide must remain slightly moist: this burrow microclimate is essential for good hydration, correct sheds and egg-laying by females. Good ventilation is mandatory.

A deep substrate (30-60 cm) able to hold a burrow without collapsing, hence the soil/sand mix slightly moistened at depth and dry at the surface. Avoid pure sand (risk of impaction and unstable burrows).

Recommended and beneficial: a high-intensity UVB tube (T5 HO 10-12%) placed above the basking zone, for a UVI of about 4-6 at the back level. Replace the bulb every 12 months even if it still lights up.

A dish of fresh, clean water available at all times; cleaned regularly.

Northern and western Australia: arid, rocky areas (outcrops, scree, dry savannahs).

Insectivore (mainly) / Carnivore — Crickets, roaches (Dubia), worms; occasionally a pinky mouse or lean turkey in small quantity.

A base of varied, well-fed insects (gut-loaded) and dusted with calcium (+ D3 depending on UVB). Very PRONE TO OBESITY if rodents/fatty proteins are given too often: reserve vertebrate prey for occasional use. Feed juveniles daily, adults 3-4 times a week while monitoring their body condition.

Clutch 5–15 eggs/young. Can produce several clutches per year. Provide a deep, humid and loose egg-laying site. Artificial incubation typically around 28-30 °C for ~90-120 days (duration varies with temperature). Captive-bred stock is widely available and to be preferred.

• Obesity (excess of fatty prey/rodents) and hepatic steatosis
• Osteodystrophy / metabolic bone disease (calcium deficiency or insufficient UVB)
• Internal parasitism, especially in individuals of dubious origin
• Thermal burns (contact with a poorly protected heat source)
• Gout and kidney damage linked to dehydration or an excess of protein