Common Name: Rainbow Lizard, Rainbow Ameiva
Scientific Name: Cnemidophorus Deppei
Adult Size: Average length of an adult Rainbow lizard is 10".
Captive Environment:
Individuals can be maintained in a 20 gallon terrarium. Ameivas are best kept singularly. These beautiful, colorful lizards are very active, but they also enjoy hiding in dark places. Provide branches for climbing and basking and hiding places. Use 2" to 3" of reptile bark or shredded coconut bark as a substrate. Use a screened lid for proper ventilation.
Lighting:
Full-Spectrum lighting that emits UVB is a must for captive reptiles. Reptiles depend on ultra-violet light to synthesize vitamin D3, which regulates calcium absorption in the intestine. The light should be positioned less than 18" from your pet for maximum effect. Glass blocks ultraviolet light, and air circulation, therefore it should never be used as a top for the enclosure. A 12- hour day/ night lighting cycle is a good start for your pet reptile. Using a timer is the best way to ensure that the proper amount of light is received.
Temperature:
Ideal range is between 80 and 85 degrees, with a basking temperature of 110 to 120 degrees. There are several methods for establishing the proper temperature range for your reptile. Using spotlights of variable wattage incandescent bulbs on the outside of the enclosure, under tank heaters or heat rocks or any combination of these.When using spotlights for 24 hour heat use red, night bulbs or a ceramic heating element to maintain day / night light cycle. Never place lights inside the enclosure where the reptile could come in contact with them and get burned. Use a thermometer to ensure proper temperature range is maintained.
Food:
Rainbow lizards are insectivorous (eat mainly insects). Insects should be dusted with a vitamin/calcium powder. Suggested insects are: crickets, mealworms, super worms, and wax worms. In addition to insects, they will sometimes eat fruit as part of their diet. Grapes, apples, oranges, pear, peaches, plums, nectarines, dates, all types of melons, strawberries, raspberries, bananas, mangoes, and tomatoes are all suitable fruits. Some fruit baby foods can be offered as well.
Water:
A shallow water bowl is necessary to keep these lizards in optimum health. Water should be changed daily. The humidity for these lizards should be kept at or near 65 percent.
NOTE: This care sheet is a general guide, to learn more about your pet consult a book about it.
