Caiman Lizard

Scientific Name: Dracaena guianensis
Age: 4-5 months 
Current Size: 12”
Max/Adult Size: 3–4 feet
Source: Farmed 
Exact Animal Pictured?: No 

Care

• Basking/Hot Spot Temp: 100–110°F
• Cool Side Temp: 78–85°F
• Humidity: 70–90% (high humidity is essential)
• Recommended Enclosure Size: Minimum 6’ x 3’ x 4’ for adults
• Water: Large, deep swimming area required—Caiman Lizards are semi‑aquatic
• Lighting: High‑output UVB required

Facts

• Caiman Lizards are powerful, semi‑aquatic lizards with strong jaws adapted for crushing snails, clams, and crustaceans.
• Their appearance is often compared to a miniature caiman, with a muscular body, keeled scales, and a laterally flattened tail for swimming.
• Despite their intimidating look, they are known to become calm, intelligent, and interactive with consistent handling.
• Native to South American wetlands and flooded forests, where they spend much of their time basking on branches over water.