Celebes Asian Water Monitor (Varanus salvator)

Common Name: Celebes Water Monitor
Scientific Name: Varanus salvator celebensis
Locality: Celebes locality form
Source: WC

Adult Size: Generally smaller than mainland Asian Water Monitor forms
Native Range: Sulawesi (Celebes), Indonesia

Enclosure: Large terrestrial enclosure with climbing structure and a substantial water area; strong construction with deep substrate and a secure pool recommended
Heating: Basking spot 45 °C; ambient 26–32 °C; night drop around 22–26 °C

Humidity: 60–80 % with regular misting and good ventilation

UVB: UVB lighting (moderate–high output)

Diet: Carnivorous; insects, fish, rodents and other whole prey items offered regularly

Water: Large water container or pool required for soaking and swimming; fresh water available at all times

ABOUT THIS SPECIES

Varanus salvator celebensis is a regional form of the Asian Water Monitor native to the Indonesian island of Sulawesi, historically known as Celebes. Like other members of the Varanus salvator complex, it is a semi-aquatic monitor strongly associated with rivers, wetlands and forested waterways.

This form is typically darker in overall colouration than many mainland populations, often showing deep brown to black tones with lighter spotting or subtle patterning across the body and tail. The species has a long muscular body, powerful limbs and a laterally compressed tail that acts as an effective swimming aid, allowing it to move efficiently through water.

In the wild, Celebes Water Monitors occupy a variety of habitats including mangroves, forest edges and riverbanks. They are opportunistic predators and scavengers, feeding on a broad range of prey such as insects, crustaceans, fish and small vertebrates. Their semi-aquatic lifestyle means they regularly move between land and water, using both environments for hunting and shelter.