Info For Possible Future Blue Tongue Skink

[BPGator]

Hi all. So I’ve been doing on and off research on Blue Tongue Skinks for about a year now. Some time down the road (1-2 Years) I know I’m going to take the plunge. However, I recently saw on faunaclassifieds an ad that had what was listed as a halmahera black and silver Blue Tongue. I’ve always been obsessed with the axanthic gene in reptiles (not exactly sure if that’s what this is) and this animals contrast absolutely blew me away. So my questions are as follows:

1) I’ve read that a lot of these animals are wild caught. Are there any reputable breeders that are working with this line that are captive bred?
2) the locales Get a little confusing for me but should I assume that this locale has a similar temperament to Northern Blue tongues? (I know every animal is different so I’m speaking generally)
3) I am assuming that the price for these animals will be very high (the animals I saw were 1200) what is the range of cost that these animals usually go for? (I know the market can change year to year so generally speaking again)
4) I’ve read a T-8 is a good permanent home for these guys but should they be given more height?

Thanks in advance for any Ant and all responses! I’m not looking to purchase anything for at least a year so I’m just trying to get ahead of the game.

1) Most halmaheras are wild caught as they are apparently difficult to breed. There are some CBB, but I don't know the breeders.
2) Not sure about temperament, but humidity requirements are very different. Northerns are very commonly captive bred and require about 40-50% humidity where Halmaheras require around 80%.
3) Not sure about a CBB. Due to their difficultly in breeding, I doubt there are many axanthic CBB. I don't believe the WC are super expensive, but then of course you have to deal with vet bills due to the possibility of parasites. I'm sure a WC axanthic would fetch more, but not sure how much. I thought I've seen some on Ben Siegel's auction, but I can't recall how much they went for.
4) I currently have my Northern in a T8, but I am looking into getting a taller cage. I also prefer my lighting mounted inside the enclosure rather than have a cutout. I'd think a T8 would be fine if you have a hole cut in the top, but most people recommend the T10 with the hole cut and a T11 or T12 if mounting inside.