Merauke blue-tongued skink explained

The Merauke blue-tongued skink (Tiliqua gigas evanescens), also known as the faded blue-tongued skink, or giant blue-tongued skink, is a subspecies of Tiliqua that is native to Indonesia and Papua New Guinea.[1] The Merauke blue-tongued skink is the longest of all the Tiliqua species; often reaching nearly 26-30 inches (66–76 cm) in total length. The species is often exported for the exotic pet trade,[2] and is steadily growing in popularity within both herpetoculture and zoological exhibits globally.

Natural habitat

The Merauke blue-tongued skink hails from the tropical environment of Indonesia and Papua New Guinea.[3]

In captivity

Most specimens of the Merauke blue tongue skink present in captivity are of wild-caught origin. Captive breeding efforts have risen with the growing interest of blue tongue skinks within herpetoculture; however, the species still remains widely imported.

Blue tongue skinks are often displayed within zoological facilities. It is a popular species among herpetoculturists.

References

https://www.tiliqua-time.com A care and reference website for all Indonesian blue tongue skink sub-species.

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Blue Tongue Skink Species. thepetenthusiast.com. 2017-08-26.
  2. Web site: The Merauke Blue Tongue Skink. BlueTongueSkinks.NET. 2017-08-26.
  3. Web site: Image: mapmer.jpg, (600 × 312 px). bluetongueskinks.net. 2017-08-26.