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White-bellied rock lizard (Darevskia unisexualis)

White-bellied rock lizard (Darevskia unisexualis), typical appearance of the species

Lizards · Difficulty: Beginner with some knowledge

Key facts and care guidance for White-bellied rock lizard (Darevskia unisexualis) (origin: Armenia). Adult size around 15–19 cm. Life expectancy 5–10 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.

Short answers

White-bellied rock lizard: How big does the enclosure need to be?

100×50×60 cm for a group.

White-bellied rock lizard: What temperature does it need?

Daytime 24–30 °C, basking spot Basking spot 38–45 °C, at night 12–18 °C.

White-bellied rock lizard: Does it need UVB lighting?

UVB: Essential (UVB 10.0 — these species bask for hours).

White-bellied rock lizard: How long do they live?

Life expectancy: 5–10 years.

White-bellied rock lizard: Is it suitable for beginners?

Partly – manageable with some prior knowledge (difficulty: Beginner with some knowledge).

Climate

Daytime temperature
24–30 °C
Night temperature
12–18 °C
Basking spot
Basking spot 38–45 °C
Humidity
40–60 %
UVB
Essential (UVB 10.0 — these species bask for hours)

Enclosure

Minimum size
100×50×60 cm for a group
Substrate
A sand-loam mix with stone slabs, a dry-stone wall and a few plants

Feeding

Food
Crickets, house crickets, roaches, wax moths and the occasional fruit, dusted regularly with calcium and vitamins
Feeding interval
adults 3–4×/week

Key facts

Adult size
15–19 cm
Life expectancy
5–10 years
Origin
Armenia
Protection status
Bern Convention Appendix II — proof of origin required
Brumation
A winter rest of 10–14 weeks at 5–10 °C — without it there is no breeding and a markedly shorter life
Cohabitation
Keep as a group of several females - there are no males at all in this purely parthenogenetic species. According to Wikipedia, parthenogenetic Darevskia species tolerate higher densities and show less aggression than bisexual relatives, so genuine group housing works well.

Notes

The name says it: an all-female species.

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Related species

All species in the care wiki →

What you need to start

To keep White-bellied rock lizard (Darevskia unisexualis) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (100×50×60 cm for a group), substrate (A sand-loam mix with stone slabs, a dry-stone wall and a few plants), a heat source with a thermostat, UVB lighting, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.

The complete, interactive care database is in the Reptoria app.

Last updated: 9 October 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darevskia, https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Darevskia&species=unisexualis

All values are non-binding guidance and do not replace expert advice. Research thoroughly from several sources before acquiring and keeping an animal, and observe the applicable law (species and animal protection in particular).