Central netted dragon (Ctenophorus nuchalis)
Photo: Jscarrow / CC BY-SA 3.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Reptile · Agamid

Central netted dragon care guide

Ctenophorus nuchalis

Beginner

The central netted dragon is a beginner-level agamid from Central and western Australia. Adults reach 20–25 cm and live 8–10 years in captivity. Hardy burrowing dragon. One male per enclosure.

  • Enclosure 90 × 45 × 45 cm
  • Temp Basking 40–45°C, cool 24°C
  • Humidity 20–30%

How much does a central netted dragon cost in Canada?

Animal$200–500Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$570–1010Enclosure $240–470 · equipment $170–350 · bioactive supplies ≈ $170
Yearly upkeep$250–400Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$1020–1910All prices CAD, estimates

Central netted dragon quick facts

Skill level
Beginner
Adult size
20–25 cm
Lifespan
8–10 years
Activity
Diurnal
Native range
Central and western Australia
Minimum enclosure
90 × 45 × 45 cm (35 × 18 × 18 in, ≈ 48 US gal)
Housing
Up to 2 can share; add about 50% more floor space for each extra animal.
Temperature
Basking 40–45°C, cool 24°C
Humidity
20–30%
UVB
Required
Diet
Omnivore – crickets, roaches, leafy greens
Bioactive style
Arid desert

Central netted dragon enclosure & bioactive setup

Give one adult at least 90 × 45 × 45 cm (35 × 18 × 18 inches). Up to 2 can share; add about 50% more floor space for each extra animal. This species suits a arid desert bioactive build.

  1. Soil and sand mix15 cm

A deep, sandy mix packed firmly lets burrows hold their shape; keep only the deepest layer faintly moist.

Temperature: Basking 40–45°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 20–30%. UVB: Required.

What does a central netted dragon eat?

Omnivore – crickets, roaches, leafy greens. Adults every 2 days, juveniles daily.

Handling, temperament & health

Bold and often tolerant of handling.

Health watch: Metabolic bone disease and impaction.

Cleaning & maintenance schedule

Daily

  • Check basking temperatures; refresh water (or mist lightly for species that drink droplets).

Weekly

  • Spot-clean waste.

Monthly

  • Lightly moisten one deep corner so burrows hold and isopods survive.
  • Check rock stacks are stable.

Yearly

  • Refresh the top layer; replace UVB bulbs on schedule.

Recommended for a central netted dragon bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (90 × 45 × 45 cm).

Central netted dragon FAQ

Is the central netted dragon good for beginners?

Yes – the central netted dragon is a good choice for beginners. Bold and often tolerant of handling.

What size enclosure does a central netted dragon need?

At least 90 × 45 × 45 cm (about 35 × 18 × 18 inches, roughly 48 US gallons) for one adult. Up to 2 can share; add about 50% more floor space for each extra animal.

How much does a central netted dragon cost in Canada?

Typically $200–500 CAD to buy, about $570–1010 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $250–400 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a central netted dragon need?

Temperature: Basking 40–45°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 20–30%.

What does a central netted dragon eat?

Omnivore – crickets, roaches, leafy greens. Adults every 2 days, juveniles daily.

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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.