Green anaconda (Eunectes murinus)
Photo: MKAMPIS / CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Reptile · Boa

Green anaconda care guide

Eunectes murinus

ExpertMay need a permitCITES – buy captive-bredVery large adult

The green anaconda is a expert-level boa from Amazon and Orinoco basins. Adults reach 400–600 cm and live 20–30 years in captivity. Massive aquatic giant needing a room-sized enclosure with a pool and permits in many areas.

  • Enclosure 360 × 180 × 120 cm
  • Temp Warm 30–32°C, water 26–28°C
  • Humidity 70–90%

How much does a green anaconda cost in Canada?

Animal$500–1500Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$8750–15670Enclosure $7080–13380 · equipment $190–420 · bioactive supplies ≈ $1560
Yearly upkeep$1500–3000Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$10750–20170All prices CAD, estimates

Green anaconda quick facts

Skill level
Expert
Adult size
400–600 cm
Lifespan
20–30 years
Activity
Nocturnal
Native range
Amazon and Orinoco basins
Minimum enclosure
360 × 180 × 120 cm (142 × 71 × 47 in, ≈ 2054 US gal)
Housing
Best kept alone.
Temperature
Warm 30–32°C, water 26–28°C
Humidity
70–90%
UVB
Recommended
Diet
Carnivore – frozen/thawed rabbits, large rodents
Bioactive style
Semi-aquatic (paludarium)

Green anaconda enclosure & bioactive setup

Give one adult at least 360 × 180 × 120 cm (142 × 71 × 47 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a semi-aquatic (paludarium) bioactive build.

  1. Leaf litter2 cm
  2. Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix15 cm
  3. 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: Warm 30–32°C, water 26–28°C. Humidity: 70–90%. 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 green anaconda eat?

Carnivore – frozen/thawed rabbits, large rodents. Feed one appropriately sized prey item every 14–28 days for adults.

Handling, temperament & health

Powerful and defensive; experts only.

Health watch: Watch for skin infections and feeding injuries.

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 green anaconda bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (360 × 180 × 120 cm).

Green anaconda FAQ

Is the green anaconda good for beginners?

No – the green anaconda is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Powerful and defensive; experts only.

What size enclosure does a green anaconda need?

At least 360 × 180 × 120 cm (about 142 × 71 × 47 inches, roughly 2054 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.

How much does a green anaconda cost in Canada?

Typically $500–1500 CAD to buy, about $8750–15670 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $1500–3000 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a green anaconda need?

Temperature: Warm 30–32°C, water 26–28°C. Humidity: 70–90%.

What does a green anaconda eat?

Carnivore – frozen/thawed rabbits, large rodents. Feed one appropriately sized prey item every 14–28 days for adults.

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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.