Argentine black and white tegu
A species of Salvator, Also known as Black and white tegu, Black tegu Scientific name : Salvator merianae Genus : Salvator
Argentine black and white tegu, A species of Salvator
Also known as:
Black and white tegu, Black tegu
Scientific name: Salvator merianae
Genus: Salvator
Content
Description General Info
Photo By vincentvosriberalta , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The Argentine black and white tegu (Salvator merianae), also called commonly the Argentine giant tegu, the black and white tegu, the huge tegu, and in Spanish as the lagarto overo is a species of lizard in the family Teiidae. The species is the largest of the "tegu lizards". It is an omnivorous species which inhabits the tropical rain forests, savannas, and semi-deserts of eastern and central South America.
General Info
Lifespan
15-26 years
Diet
Argentine black and white tegu's diet is primarily carnivorous, engulfing vertebrates like rodents, birds, and other reptiles. They also consume invertebrates, demonstrating exceptional opportunism and adaptability in their feeding habits.
Appearance
Argentine black and white tegu is a large reptile with a robust, elongated body covered in keeled, rough scales. Its coloration ranges from black to dark brown, often with lighter variegations. A highly noticeable feature is the long, tapering tail, which is as long as the rest of the body. Juveniles may display brighter colors and distinctive patterns that fade with age.
Behavior
Argentine black and white tegu exhibits a primarily solitary lifestyle, marking territories via defecation amid well-guarded basking sites. Notably, their survival in harsh environments is attributable to distinctive foraging behavior of consumption and subsequent 'refuging' in carcasses. A crepuscular-adapted species, it engages in basking during peak morning and evening times. Mating behavior is marked by female detectability and male combat.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Whiptails Genus
Salvator Species
Argentine black and white tegu 
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