How to Care for an Emerald Basilisk

The emerald or green basilisk is an amazing creature. This lizard can actually run on water for fairly long distances before finally sinking down to swim. They do not respond well to being handled, thus it is not recommended for someone who wants to hold their pet. But observing them is a treat in itself.

Things You'll Need

• 55 gallon aquarium
• Aquarium lid
• Climbing decorations
• Cage substrate
• Aquarium liners
• Water dish
• Misting spray bottle
• Vitamin and mineral supplement
• Thermometer
• Heat lamp
• Full spectrum lamp

Instructions

1. Provide your new pet with an appropriately sized living space. A pair of adults should have a 55 gallon aquarium. Also provide a secure top for your tank.

2. Add an easily cleaned substrate to the tank. Reptile sand is a good choice because it can be scooped easily to remove your basilisks' droppings. The bedding should be cleaned on a daily basis and fully replaced once a month.

3. Create a thermal gradient inside the tank for your lizard by heating one end of the tank to about 95 degrees Fahrenheit and the other end to only 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

4. Fill the cage with large climbing branches and areas to hang out off of the ground since the basilisk is arboreal.

5. Mist the cage on a daily basis with a spray bottle to maintain humidity levels around 60 percent.

6. Light the cage with a full spectrum lamp because this is necessary for the basilisk to synthesize vitamins properly.

7. Place a large water dish that allows the lizard to fully submerge in the aquarium. Keep it filled with clean and non-chlorinated water at all times.

8. Feed the basilisk feeder insects like crickets, mealworms and wax worms purchased from your local pet store. You should also provide some dark leafy greens for your lizard. They should be fed daily.

Tips & Warnings

• The thermal gradient is easily achieved by placing a heat lamp on one end of the enclosure.

• Dust the feeder insects with a vitamin and mineral supplement before feeding to your basilisk.

• Attach paper on the sides of the glass aquarium or a tank liner because the basilisk can injure itself by running full speed when frightened and hit the glass.

Resources

• Visit Anapsid to find your local herpetological societies and rescues.