Need suggestions for my empty 40gal breeder tank...

[jclaiborne]

With all those requirements, I would go with an Argentine Black and White Tegu. A new hatchling will fit great in there, but only for about 6 months. These guys love to be held, and weirdly they seem to crave human attention. Super smart, trainable and gentle when handled frequently. Just know that they do grow large and will need an 8 foot enclosure within a couple years. It seems like you have general herper knowledge and could handle something like this. They are truly wonderful pets!

I'm sorry but I have to disagree with this recommendation for a few reasons (not sure if you own a tegu or not):

-These guys grow fast and while they make great pets only having a 40 gallon breeder and nothing bigger ready is where I made my first mistake when I got mine, not a good idea because you end up rushing to get a bigger cage built

-Not all Tegus are "puppy dog tame" and not all enjoy being handled. Mine is no where near full grown, and when she is in a mood and doesn't want to be messed with she can put the hurt on you.

-Only having experience with a beardie and LG's will in no way prep you for the power that tegus have. Again if they decide to roll on you or whip around their power will shock you.

-As adults their cage requirements are a minimum of 8x4x4 you have to be willing to have this cage in your house, or build them an outdoor enclosure, these animals live a long time like most reptiles. (they will be able to go in this before the first year you own them is up)

I am not trying to deter anyone from owning them, but the decision can't be made lightly, and getting one because you want something to go in a 40 gallon breeder is not the correct way to go about it. Again these can in fact make amazing pets, but research research research, ensure you have everything ready ahead of time and realize the power these animals have.