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Description
Green Iguana (Red)
Scientific Name: Iguana iguana
Common Name: Red Green Iguana
Species Overview
Size: Adults typically reach 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 m) in total length, with large males sometimes exceeding this range. Their long tail accounts for more than half their total length.
Appearance: The Red Green Iguana is a selectively bred colour phase characterized by rich red pigmentation that can range from brick red to deep crimson or rust-toned shades. Many individuals display a blend of reds and oranges across the body, dewlap, and dorsal spines. Some show subtle dark or charcoal undertones along the tail or limbs, depending on lineage. Overall body structure remains typical of the species, featuring tall dorsal spines, a large dewlap, strong limbs, and a long, muscular tail.
Distribution: Green Iguanas are native to Central and South America, including Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Brazil.
Habitat: Green Iguanas inhabit tropical forests, riverbank canopy systems, and mangroves. They rely on tall trees for basking, feeding, and safety, often choosing high branches near water sources.
Behaviour: Green Iguanas are diurnal, arboreal, and herbivorous. They spend much of their day basking and feeding on foliage. Territorial displays include dewlap extension, head-bobbing, and tail-whipping. Mature males may become more territorial during breeding season.
Captive Care
Enclosure: Provide a tall arboreal enclosure at least 8 feet × 4 feet × 4 feet (2.4 × 1.2 × 1.2 m), with larger custom enclosures ideal for adults. Furnish with sturdy branches, elevated platforms, vines, and dense foliage to provide climbing stability and environmental security.
Temperature and Humidity:
Basking area: 100 to 105°F (38 to 40°C)
Warm side: 90 to 95°F (32 to 35°C)
Cool side: 78 to 82°F (26 to 28°C)
Night temperatures: 72 to 75°F (22 to 24°C)
Maintain humidity between 60 and 80 percent with regular misting and accessible water sources.
Lighting: Provide strong full-spectrum lighting and high-output UVB (10 to 12 percent). Bright lighting helps express red pigmentation and supports proper metabolic function.
Diet: Offer a strict herbivorous diet of leafy greens, edible flowers, bell peppers, squash, prickly pear cactus pads, green beans, and occasional fruits. Avoid high-oxalate vegetables. Regular calcium supplementation is essential.
Behaviour in Captivity: Green Iguanas are intelligent, active, and visually alert. They thrive in large, structured enclosures with consistent routines. Handling tolerance varies between individuals and improves with calm, steady interaction and positive experiences.
Special Considerations:
• Red colour intensity may deepen with age, proper basking, and seasonal conditions.
• Strong UVB exposure is essential for bone and metabolic health.
• Ensure climbing structures are secure to support their size and weight.
• Provide both open basking zones and shaded retreats for healthy thermoregulation.
Taxonomy Note
Green Iguanas belong to the family Iguanidae, a widespread group of herbivorous New World lizards. Iguana iguana is known for its adaptability and broad distribution. The Red phase is a selectively bred colour variation rather than a separate subspecies.
Genetics Note
Red Line (polygenic): The red trait develops through selective breeding that intensifies red pigmentation across the body. Expression varies between individuals and typically strengthens with maturity and exposure to proper lighting.
Natural variation: Some individuals exhibit deeper reds, while others may show blended orange-red tones depending on lineage and environmental factors.