The Argentine black and white tegu (Salvator merianae) is a species of lizard in the family Teiidae. It is native to eastern and central South America, including Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia, and Uruguay, where it inhabits forests, savannas, and semi-deserts. It is the largest known tegu lizard, with males sometimes growing up to 4.5 feet (140 cm) in length. An omnivore, the Argentine black and white tegu feeds on invertebrates, fruit, eggs, and small vertebrates. It is notable for its intelligence, popularity in the pet trade, and seasonal brumation. It is the only known non-avian reptile to show partial endothermy during the breeding season. The species is sometimes kept as a pet, and has also become invasive in parts of the United States, threatening native wildlife by preying on eggs and small animals. This male Argentine black and white tegu was photographed in the Vicente López Ecological Reserve in La Lucila, Argentina.
Author: Charles J. Sharp
