Reptile · Python
Amethystine python care guide
Simalia amethistina
The amethystine python is a expert-level python from New Guinea, Moluccas. Adults reach 300–500 cm and live 20–25 years in captivity. Large, semi-arboreal giant; needs a tall room-sized enclosure. Solitary.
- Enclosure 300 × 120 × 180 cm
- Temp Warm 30–32°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity 60–80%
How much does a amethystine python cost in Canada?
Amethystine python quick facts
- Skill level
- Expert
- Adult size
- 300–500 cm
- Lifespan
- 20–25 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- New Guinea, Moluccas
- Minimum enclosure
- 300 × 120 × 180 cm (118 × 47 × 71 in, ≈ 1712 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 30–32°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity
- 60–80%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats, rabbits
- Bioactive style
- Tropical arboreal
Amethystine python enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 300 × 120 × 180 cm (118 × 47 × 71 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a tropical arboreal bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix12 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls5 cm
Most of the action is vertical – keep the soil moist but not wet, and focus on perches and dense planting.
Temperature: Warm 30–32°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 60–80%. UVB: Recommended.
Some Canadian provinces and many municipalities restrict or ban this species. Check your local bylaws and any provincial permit rules before buying.
What does a amethystine python eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats, rabbits. Feed one appropriately sized prey item every 14–21 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Often defensive, fast and powerful.
Health watch: Watch for respiratory infections and bite injuries.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Mist to raise humidity – usually a heavy evening misting with a dry-down by day.
- Check temperatures at perch height.
Weekly
- Feed; remove uneaten food (and diet dishes after 24–48 h).
- Check the drainage layer and prune vines.
- Look for stuck shed on toes and tails.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter.
- Check branches and mounts are still secure.
- Clean glass, vents and misting nozzles.
Yearly
- Refresh the top of the soil in open areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used) on schedule.
Recommended for a amethystine python bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (300 × 120 × 180 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 5 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 12 cm
Magnolia Leaves 10/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Cork Bark Backgrounds
Turns the back wall into climbing space
Cork Bark Tubes
A “tree trunk” to climb and hide in
Yamuna Spiderwood
Arboreal species prefer diagonal and horizontal perches
Cork Branches
More climbing routes
Amethystine python FAQ
Is the amethystine python good for beginners?
No – the amethystine python is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Often defensive, fast and powerful.
What size enclosure does a amethystine python need?
At least 300 × 120 × 180 cm (about 118 × 47 × 71 inches, roughly 1712 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a amethystine python cost in Canada?
Typically $500–1500 CAD to buy, about $8280–14350 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $800–1500 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a amethystine python need?
Temperature: Warm 30–32°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 60–80%.
What does a amethystine python eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats, rabbits. Feed one appropriately sized prey item every 14–21 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.