Scientific Name: Gonocephalus grandis
Family: Agamidae
Classification: Reptilia (Squamata)
Toxicity Level: Non-Toxic
Origin: Southeast Asia (Peninsular Malaysia, Thailand, Borneo)
Adult Size: 45 – 55 cm (18 – 22 inches)
Lifespan: 7 – 10 years
Diet: Insectivore (Crickets, worms, roaches)
The Great Angle-Headed Lizard is the closest thing to a miniature iguana or dragon in the Malaysian rainforest. Adult males are spectacular, featuring a massive, helmet-like crest on their head and a high, serrated sail running down their back. Their body color ranges from bright green to teal blue depending on mood and temperature. Females are smaller, brown/green, and lack the large crests.
Notes Husbandry: ADVANCED SPECIES. They require cool, highly humid environments with moving water (a waterfall or dripper is essential as they rarely drink from standing water). They stress easily if kept too hot or dry.
Display: They are diurnal (day-active) and arboreal, often perching on branches near water, making them excellent display animals.
Why Source This Species:
Spectacular Morphology: The male's crest is one of the most impressive structures in the agamid world, giving it a true "dragon" appearance.
Display Potential: A planted paludarium (water + land) with a Forest Dragon perched on a branch is a world-class display setup.
Niche Rarity: While similar to the Australian Boyd's Forest Dragon, the G. grandis is far more affordable but offers the same prehistoric aesthetic.
Malaysia
