Description: The genus Japalura contains about 20 species. Also known as Japalura/Chinese/Neon Tree Dragon, Green Calotes, Dragon Agama and Banana Split lizard/Mountain Lizard/Tree Dragon. From southwest China, where they can be found in temperate montane rainforests. They have a short dorsal crest that runs from head to tail - a long tail that is twice the body length. Color can be quite striking, often patterned in bright green, brown and black. They grow to between 12 and 16" in length, including that very long tail.
Green Japaluras are terrestrial lizards but like to climb branches and rocks. Although they are too active to be held, they still make good, friendly pets that are generally not aggressive towards other lizards. They may try to dominate the supply of food however. Care is similar to that of the Mountain horned dragons or the Chinese water dragon.

Temperature: Daytime 76° to 80°F with an 85°to 90°F basking spot and 5° to 10°F lower temps at night. Provide a warm and a cool side in the enclosure (temperature gradient) so that they can choose a comfortable temperature at any given time.

Humidity: Moderately to high, 60 - 80%. Misting is beneficial. A humidity gradient throughout the enclosure is preferred.

Lighting: UV light is needed, a 5.0 fluorescent is sufficient along with a basking bulb. Use a timer to provide a consistent day cycle ranging from around 8 hours in the winter to 12 – 14 hours in summer.

Feeding: Crickets and mealworms are fine for the staple diet but a variety of other small insects should be given. Dust the food items with a calcium and vitamin supplement at least twice a week for young, growing lizards and about once a week for adults. Can be hand fed.
These lizards may not drink from still water and prefer to lick up droplets. A bowl that is large enough for them to soak in with an air stone bubbling in it should be adequate or frequent misting may be required.

Habitat: A 29-gallon tank will work for a pair or trio. Set it up as an arboreal rainforest habitat containing sturdy plants along with some rocks and branches to climb and bask on. Also leave an open space with areas of soft substrate to dig in. A large filtered water area with a waterfall is ideal.

Breeding: The males courtship behavior includes head-bobbing, dewlap displays and pursuing the females. In the wild, breeding season is from May to June and the females lay between 5 and 7 eggs in shallow nests. An area of damp substrate that is at least 3" deep should be provided. Incubation temps should be between 80° and 84°F, a small drop at night may improve hatching success. Eggs hatch in about 2 months.

ENJOY YOUR PET LIFE FORMS, Dave & Donna