Identity
Family / Order
Shinisauridae / Squamata
Adult size
20–40 cm
Lifespan (captivity)
10–15 yrs
Activity
Diurnal; semi-aquatic
Temperament
Shy, slow, sit-and-wait — display species
Legal
CITES I — highly protected; CB + permits essential
Price (THB)
High (protected, CB only)
Enclosure and conditions
Basking
30–35 °C (86–95 °F)
Ambient / water
20–24 °C (68–75 °F)
Humidity
70–90%
Water feature
≥ 1/3 enclosure, 5–8 cm deep, FILTERED
Key rule
Must be able to dry off fully (else skin rot)
UVB
Low–moderate
Min. size
90 × 45 × 45 cm with land + pool
Substrate
Bioactive land + branches over water
Diet
Staple
Earthworms (favourite), aquatic insects, crickets, roaches
Extra
Small fish, shrimp, snails
Frequency
Juveniles often; adults 2–3×/week
Behaviour and handling
Handling
Minimal — delicate, semi-aquatic
Cohabitation
Pairs possible with space
Defense
Shy; may bite if cornered
Reproduction
Reproduction
Live-bearing
Litter
2–12 neonates
Gestation
~9–12 months
Common health problems
Skin rot
Signsfrom constant wetness
Preventprovide a full dry-off zone
Respiratory infection
Signscool + damp + stagnant
Preventventilation + clean filtered water
Metabolic bone disease
Signspoor UVB/Ca
PreventUVB + calcium
When to see a vet
This is not veterinary advice. If red flags appear (open-mouth breathing, months of weight loss, 'stargazing', persistent regurgitation) consult a qualified exotic (herp) veterinarian. Quarantine new arrivals 30–90 days.
Good to know
- A 'living fossil' — the only species in its family; sleeps with eyes closed like a crocodile resting.
- CITES I — one of the most protected pet lizards; buy captive-bred only.
Common questions
Is it legal?
CITES I — needs captive-bred origin + permits; check with the shop.
Fully aquatic?
No — semi-aquatic; needs land to dry off.
What it needs
- Paludarium 90×45×45
- Filter + pump
- Low-mod UVB
- Basking lamp + thermostat
- Branches over water
- Calcium