Torch monitor (Varanus obor)

Short answers

Torch monitor: How big does the enclosure need to be?

150×80×150 cm (height).

Torch monitor: What temperature does it need?

Daytime 27–33 °C, basking spot 40 °C, at night 22–25 °C.

Torch monitor: Does it need UVB lighting?

UVB: Essential (UVB 10.0).

Torch monitor: How long do they live?

Life expectancy: 10–15 years.

Torch monitor: Is it suitable for beginners?

No – better suited to experienced keepers (difficulty: Expert).

Climate

Daytime temperature

27–33 °C

Night temperature

22–25 °C

Basking spot

40 °C

Humidity

75–90 %

UVB

Essential (UVB 10.0)

Enclosure

Minimum size

150×80×150 cm (height)

Substrate

Coco humus soil, sturdy climbing branches, cork tubes, a water section

Feeding

Food

Insects, roaches, crayfish, nestlings, fish

Feeding interval

3×/week

Key facts

Adult size

100–120 cm total length

Life expectancy

10–15 years

Origin

Sanana (the Moluccas, Indonesia)

Protection status

CITES II; a very small island range

Brumation

None

Cohabitation

Pairs work, but keep males strictly separate. The reason: several males fight over territory and basking spot until one is injured or sits permanently in a corner. Females usually tolerate each other but need separate heat and hiding spots each; feed separately if sizes differ.

Notes

Described in 2010: a jet-black body with a brilliant fire-red head. It lives in coastal sago swamps and goes into the water – a water section is part of the setup. In Europe in only a few breeding groups.

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What you need to start

To keep Torch monitor (Varanus obor) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (150×80×150 cm (height)), substrate (Coco humus soil, sturdy climbing branches, cork tubes, a water section), a heat source with a thermostat, UVB lighting, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.