Species Spotlight – Eastern Casquehead Iguana
(Laemanctus longipes)
The Eastern casquehead iguana is a species of Corytophanid from Central America and Mexico. They are found in tropical deciduous forests, but like their close relatives Basiliscus, they are also surprisingly adaptable and can live in rural locations alongside human infrastructure. They are fragile lizards with slender bodies and an extremely long tail (which can make up two thirds of their total length). Despite their seemingly delicate nature, these lizards have been bred in captivity for many years and are becoming increasingly popular amongst hobbyists. They have much simpler care requirements than similar-sized helmeted lizards and have been reported to reproduce parthenogenically in captivity.
This species will require plenty of space to move around. A 90 x 45 x 90cm glass terrarium would be the minimum size for an adult pair. A larger, custom-made enclosure would provide even better housing and make for an excellent display vivarium. A deep penetrating hot spot of around 35°C surrounded by an ambient temperature of around 22-25°C is ideal. Night temperatures should be allowed to drop to 18°C (though they will tolerate slightly lower). Good quality UV is of paramount importance and Ferguson Zone 4 lighting should be implemented into the enclosure. Humidity should remain upwards of 75% and a running water feature will help combat dehydration, which is a common problem keepers face with this species.
Like many arboreal lizards, it is important to position plants and décor to produce an ‘off-show’ area of the enclosure. In the wild, these lizards will typically rest on tree branches as opposed to utilising hides and therefore areas of dense vegetation are extremely important. Large cork bark tubes can also be used to provide additional shelter to young lizards. A varied diet will help enrich the lives of these active lizards. As well as appropriately sized and calcium-dusted crickets and locusts, the keeper should aim for more creative feeding techniques. Throwing some calci-worms into the substrate and allowing them to develop into black soldier flies will encourage young lizards to chase their prey around the enclosure. Scattering bean weevils and curly wing flies across the tank will also encourage more active hunting behaviours. With a little patience, tong-feeding can also be very beneficial and moisture-rich earthworms, snails and silkworms can make an excellent treat. This is also likely to be the only way keepers can interact with their lizards as their quick footedness makes them particularly risky to handle.
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