By Green basilisks (Basiliscus plumifrons), also known as double-crested basilisks or plumed basilisks, are fascinating lizards native to the tropical rainforests of Central America. They are known for their unique appearance and remarkable ability to run on water, which has earned them the nickname “Jesus Christ lizard.” This species profile and care sheet will provide a comprehensive overview of green basilisks, covering their natural history, housing requirements, heating and lighting needs, diet, and more.
Table of Contents
Natural History
Green basilisks are slender, brightly colored lizards with laterally compressed bodies and triangular-shaped heads. Their vibrant green coloration and striking patterns of white, light blue, or gray spots across their bodies make them a visually appealing species. Males are generally larger than females and have distinctive double high crests on their heads, which they use to impress females during mating. Female green basilisks have a single smaller crest on their heads and tails.
These agile reptiles inhabit tropical rainforests in Central America, specifically in Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, and Panama. They are semi-arboreal and semi-aquatic, meaning they can navigate both terrestrial and aquatic environments with ease. Green basilisks are known for their ability to run on water using their two hind legs, a feat made possible by hydrophobic scales on the underside of their feet.
Habitat and Behavior
Green basilisks spend most of their time in trees above or around bodies of water. They are highly active during the day, basking in sunlight and hunting for prey. When threatened, they can rear up on two legs, using their tail for balance, and run at impressive speeds over short distances. They can also dive into water to escape predators.
Their natural habitat consists of dense vegetation, leafy branches for resting and climbing, and rocks for basking. They are territorial animals, with males being especially aggressive in defending their territory against rivals.
Housing
To properly care for a green basilisk in captivity, it’s essential to replicate their natural environment as closely as possible. A wooden vivarium is the ideal enclosure for these lizards, as it provides consistent humidity and temperature levels, both of which are crucial for their health. The vivarium should be tall, as green basilisks enjoy climbing and basking on branches. A 4 x 2 x 3 ft (width x depth x height) enclosure is recommended for an adult basilisk.
Enclosure Selection
When choosing a vivarium, look for one with large vents and sliding glass front doors to ensure proper ventilation. This ventilation will help maintain a consistent temperature gradient within the enclosure, allowing your basilisk to regulate its body temperature effectively. For younger basilisks, it’s important to include plenty of decorations, as they may feel exposed and frightened in large, open spaces. These decorations can be gradually removed as the lizard grows and becomes more comfortable in its environment.
Heating and Lighting
Green basilisks require a warm basking area with a temperature range of 90 to 95°F during the day. This heat should be provided over 1/3 of the enclosure, allowing the rest of the vivarium to cool to room temperature. A strong basking lamp attached to the ceiling at one end of the enclosure, controlled by a high-temperature dimming thermostat, will help achieve this temperature gradient. The basking lamp should be left on for 10-12 hours per day.
At night, all lights should be turned off, and the enclosure should be completely dark to ensure a clear day and night cycle for your basilisk. However, some warmth should still be provided during the night, with a temperature gradient of 80°F on the warm end, down to room temperature on the cooler side. A ceramic lamp, controlled by a pulse thermostat, can provide this warmth without introducing light to the enclosure.
UVB Lighting
In addition to heating, green basilisks also require UVB lighting to thrive. They are classified as Ferguson Zone 2 baskers, which means they need a moderate amount of UVB exposure (UVI 0.7-1.0). A T5 or T8 UVB tube mounted on the enclosure ceiling, about 12 inches from the basking area, is ideal for providing this necessary UVB exposure. Replace the UV tubes every 6 months for T8 lamps or every 12 months for T5 lamps to ensure consistent UVB output.
Substrate and Decorations
A suitable substrate for your green basilisk enclosure should be absorbent and help maintain humidity levels. Eco-earth, plantation soil, and jungle mix are all excellent options, as are coconut coir and dry leaves. The substrate should be at least four inches deep to allow for burrowing.
In addition to the substrate, your vivarium should also include a variety of decorations, such as rocks, branches, and plants, for your basilisk to climb and explore. Providing multiple perches at different levels is essential, as green basilisks are semi-arboreal. A deep water bowl for your basilisk to submerge in is also a necessary addition to the enclosure, as these lizards are semi-aquatic and enjoy swimming.
Basking spots are important for green basilisks, so placing a large rock near the basking lamp will create a warm environment for your lizard to bask in. Hiding spots, both full and partial, should be provided throughout the enclosure to allow your basilisk to escape from the light and heat when necessary.
Diet and Water
Green basilisks are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of insects, small mammals, fish, and vegetation in the wild. In captivity, a diet of live insects, such as crickets, locusts, and mealworms, as well as vegetables like collard greens, kale, and spring mix, will help ensure their health and well-being. Hatchling basilisks are primarily insectivorous, so small insects like fruit flies and pinhead crickets should be provided as their primary food source.
When feeding your basilisk, it’s important to avoid offering food items larger than the size of their head, as this can cause choking. Provide clean, chlorine-free water for your basilisk to drink and bathe in. Their water bowl should be placed on the cool side of the enclosure to prevent rapid evaporation.
Supplements
To ensure your green basilisk receives all the necessary vitamins and minerals, calcium and vitamin supplements should be dusted onto their live food. Calcium supplements with or without added vitamin D3 can be used, depending on your confidence in the UVB levels within your enclosure. A balanced vitamin supplement containing both vitamin D3 and vitamin A is also recommended.
Handling and Temperament
Green basilisks are not particularly fond of handling and may display aggression if they feel threatened. However, with regular, gentle handling, some individuals may become more comfortable with human interaction. When handling your basilisk, it’s important to support its body weight as much as possible and avoid grabbing it from above, as this can cause stress or aggressive behavior.
Health and Common Issues
Like any reptile, green basilisks can be susceptible to various health issues, including parasites, vitamin A deficiency, metabolic bone disease, and rostral injuries. Maintaining proper enclosure conditions, providing a balanced diet, and monitoring your basilisk’s health regularly can help prevent many of these issues.
Vitamin A Deficiency
Vitamin A deficiency can be particularly problematic for hatchlings and young juveniles, leading to loss of appetite and yellowish discoloration of the mucous membranes. Ensuring a diet rich in carotenoids (found in carrots and dark leafy greens) can help combat this deficiency and support your basilisk’s immune system.
Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)
MBD is a condition resulting from a lack of calcium and vitamin D3. Symptoms include loss of appetite, lethargy, fractures, and seizures. Severe cases may require oral or injectable calcium treatments. Providing proper UVB lighting and calcium supplementation can help prevent MBD.
Rostral Injuries
Rostral injuries, caused by nose-banging or territorial fights, can result in swelling and bruising around the face and nose area. Treatment for these injuries typically involves antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications prescribed by a veterinarian. Preventing stress and maintaining proper enclosure conditions can help minimize the risk of these injuries.
Breeding
Breeding green basilisks can be relatively straightforward, often requiring only the introduction of a male and female into the same enclosure. Providing a nesting box with moist soil for the gravid female to lay her eggs is essential. Incubate the eggs at a temperature of 84°F, and they should hatch within 60-70 days.
Choosing and Buying a Green Basilisk
When selecting a green basilisk, look for a healthy, alert individual with bright coloration and a fully extended tail. Prices for these lizards can range from $30 to $100, depending on factors such as age, size, and breeder. Green basilisks are available in pet stores, reptile expos, online reptile shops, and from professional breeders.
Before purchasing a green basilisk, ensure that you are prepared to provide the appropriate care, housing, and diet for this unique and captivating species. With proper care and attention, green basilisks can make fascinating and rewarding pets for experienced reptile enthusiasts.