Chinese Water Dragon vs Green Iguana

Side-by-side care comparison to help you choose.

Chinese Water DragonGreen Iguana
DifficultyIntermediateAdvanced
Adult size24-36 inches4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 m)
Lifespan10-15 years15-20 years
Min enclosure75 gallon / 48x24x24 in6 ft x 3 ft x 6 ft (1.8 x 0.9 x 1.8 m) for an adult
Basking temp95-100°F95-105°F (35-40°C)
Humidity60-80%60-80%
UVBYes - T5 HO 5.0 or 6% UVB (Ferguson zone 3-4)Yes - T5 HO 10.0 to 12% UVB, Ferguson zone 3-4
DietJuveniles: daily insects (crickets, roaches, mealworms) dusted with calcium; adults: every other day same insects plus some leafy greens.Herbivorous: 70% dark leafy greens (collard, mustard, dandelion), 20% vegetables (squash, bell pepper), 10% fruit (berries, mango) as treats. Feed daily for juveniles, every other day for adults.