Reptile · Monitor
Quince monitor care guide
Varanus melinus
The quince monitor is a advanced-level monitor from Sula Islands, Indonesia. Adults reach 100–120 cm and live 12–15 years in captivity. Bright yellow mangrove monitor; needs a large pool.
- Enclosure 240 × 120 × 150 cm
- Temp Basking 45–50°C, ambient 28°C
- Humidity 70–90%
How much does a quince monitor cost in Canada?
Quince monitor quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- 100–120 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Sula Islands, Indonesia
- Minimum enclosure
- 240 × 120 × 150 cm (94 × 47 × 59 in, ≈ 1141 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Basking 45–50°C, ambient 28°C
- Humidity
- 70–90%
- UVB
- Required
- Diet
- Carnivore – roaches, fish, eggs, whole prey
- Bioactive style
- Humid terrestrial
Quince monitor enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 240 × 120 × 150 cm (94 × 47 × 59 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a humid terrestrial bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix12 cm
- Base layer – packed coco fibre13 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls3 cm
Deep, moist soil is what holds humidity in this build – much better than thin bedding, especially through Canadian winters. This species digs, so give it 25 cm (10 in) of substrate in total. Only the top 12 cm needs to be bioactive soil; the 13 cm underneath can be cheaper coco fibre, dampened and packed firm.
Temperature: Basking 45–50°C, ambient 28°C. Humidity: 70–90%. UVB: Required.
What does a quince monitor eat?
Carnivore – roaches, fish, eggs, whole prey. Juveniles daily, adults 3–4 times a week.
Handling, temperament & health
Nervous; captive-bred tame slowly.
Health watch: Parasites and stress.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check warm and cool side temperatures and humidity.
- Refresh the water bowl.
Weekly
- Mist or pour water into the substrate to keep the lower layers moist.
- Spot-clean large waste promptly.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter.
- Stir and fluff compacted topsoil around hides.
- Check heat sources and thermostat calibration.
Yearly
- Partially refresh soil in high-traffic areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used).
Recommended for a quince monitor bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (240 × 120 × 150 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 3 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive top layer, 12 cm
Premium Coconut Fiber
Base layer, 13 cm – dampen and pack firm so burrows hold
Cypress Substrate
Optional top layer (cypress)
Red Oak Leaves 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Cork Bark Tubes
Secure hides at both ends of the gradient
Malaysian Drift Wood
Sturdy enrichment for heavy-bodied animals
Quince monitor FAQ
Is the quince monitor good for beginners?
The quince monitor is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Nervous; captive-bred tame slowly.
What size enclosure does a quince monitor need?
At least 240 × 120 × 150 cm (about 94 × 47 × 59 inches, roughly 1141 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a quince monitor cost in Canada?
Typically $1200–3000 CAD to buy, about $5450–9570 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $800–1300 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a quince monitor need?
Temperature: Basking 45–50°C, ambient 28°C. Humidity: 70–90%.
What does a quince monitor eat?
Carnivore – roaches, fish, eggs, whole prey. Juveniles daily, adults 3–4 times a week.
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.