Argentine Black And White Tegu

Salvator merianae

The Argentine black and white tegu (Salvator merianae) is a large, heavy-bodied lizard native to parts of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Adults have bold black-and-white banding, powerful jaws, and a muscular tail, with males developing broader heads and jowls. It is an omnivore, taking insects, eggs, small animals, fruit, and other plant foods. In temperate parts of its range, it follows a seasonal cycle and may brumate during cooler months.

Captive-bred tegus are established in the reptile trade, but their size and strength make them demanding pets. Adults need large, escape-resistant enclosures with heat gradients, UVB exposure, deep substrate, and a varied diet that does not rely only on rodents. Regular calm handling may produce tractable animals, though breeding season and feeding responses can change behavior. Released tegus have become invasive in some regions, including parts of the southeastern United States, so buyers should check local rules and plan long-term housing before acquiring one.