Reptile · Crocodile lizard
Chinese crocodile lizard care guide
Shinisaurus crocodilurus
The chinese crocodile lizard is a expert-level crocodile lizard from S China, N Vietnam. Adults reach 35–45 cm and live 10–15 years in captivity. Endangered; needs a cool, clean pool. CITES paperwork essential.
- Enclosure 120 × 60 × 60 cm
- Temp 22–26°C, basking 29°C, avoid over 28°C ambient
- Humidity 70–85%
How much does a chinese crocodile lizard cost in Canada?
Chinese crocodile lizard quick facts
- Skill level
- Expert
- Adult size
- 35–45 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–15 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- S China, N Vietnam
- Minimum enclosure
- 120 × 60 × 60 cm (47 × 24 × 24 in, ≈ 114 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 22–26°C, basking 29°C, avoid over 28°C ambient
- Humidity
- 70–85%
- UVB
- Required
- Diet
- Carnivore – earthworms, small fish, roaches
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Chinese crocodile lizard enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 120 × 60 × 60 cm (47 × 24 × 24 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a semi-aquatic (paludarium) bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix10 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls4 cm
Quantities assume about half the floor is land. The water half needs a filter and regular partial water changes.
Temperature: 22–26°C, basking 29°C, avoid over 28°C ambient. Humidity: 70–85%. UVB: Required.
What does a chinese crocodile lizard eat?
Carnivore – earthworms, small fish, roaches. Adults every 2–3 days, juveniles daily.
Handling, temperament & health
Calm and slow; minimal handling.
Health watch: Heat stress and skin infections from dirty water.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check water and air temperature; feed according to species.
Weekly
- Change 20–30% of the water with dechlorinated water.
- Rinse filter sponge in old tank water (never tap water) as needed.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter on land; prune plants at the waterline.
Yearly
- Service the pump/filter fully.
Recommended for a chinese crocodile lizard bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (120 × 60 × 60 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 4 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 10 cm
Almond Leaves Dried 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Malaysian Drift Wood
Bridges water and land; easy exit from the water
Cork Bark Flats
Shelter on the land section
Chinese crocodile lizard FAQ
Is the chinese crocodile lizard good for beginners?
No – the chinese crocodile lizard is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Calm and slow; minimal handling.
What size enclosure does a chinese crocodile lizard need?
At least 120 × 60 × 60 cm (about 47 × 24 × 24 inches, roughly 114 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a chinese crocodile lizard cost in Canada?
Typically $1500–4000 CAD to buy, about $870–1580 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $300–500 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a chinese crocodile lizard need?
Temperature: 22–26°C, basking 29°C, avoid over 28°C ambient. Humidity: 70–85%.
What does a chinese crocodile lizard eat?
Carnivore – earthworms, small fish, roaches. Adults every 2–3 days, juveniles daily.
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.