Iguana Species · Fiji & Tonga
Fiji Banded Iguana
Stunning emerald and blue bands — CITES Appendix I, zoo conservation only.
By the WARN Research & Conservation TeamChecked against IUCN Red List & CITES sourcesLast updated
In brief
The Fiji banded iguana (Brachylophus fasciatus) is a bright emerald arboreal iguana endemic to Fiji and Tonga — CITES Appendix I listed with no legal pet trade. Its defining trait is zoo conservation insurance populations only, never domestic companions.
Fiji Banded Iguana: At a Glance
| Origin | Fiji & Tonga |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium (0.4–0.6 kg) |
| Typical weight | 0.4–0.6 kg (0.9–1.3 lb); slender arboreal iguanid |
| Lifespan | 15–20 years (green iguana in captivity); wild species vary |
| Scales & colour | Brilliant green with blue or white banding; smooth scales unlike spiny iguanas. Among most striking iguanids — legally protected. |
| Temperament | Arboreal, shy, protected |
| Conservation note | Accredited zoo breeding programmes supporting in-situ conservation — CITES Appendix I prohibits pet trade. Wild populations threatened by habitat loss and invasive species. |
History & Origins
Fiji banded iguanas live in tropical forest canopy on Pacific islands, threatened by mongoose introduction and deforestation. Accredited zoos maintain EEP populations. Any private sale violates CITES — species is not a pet under any responsible framework.
Fiji Banded Iguana Fun Facts
- One of few iguanids native to Pacific islands east of Wallace Line.
- Brilliant colour among most vivid iguana species.
- CITES Appendix I — commercial trade prohibited.
- Zoo programmes fund Fiji habitat protection alongside captive breeding.
Fiji Banded Iguana Common Health Issues
Conditions seen more often in this breed, and how owners and vets help manage them. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice — always speak to your vet.
Habitat loss (wild)
Deforestation removes arboreal feeding habitat in Fiji and Tonga.
Care: Support Pacific island protected areas and invasive species control.
Invasive species (wild)
Mongoose predation on iguanas and eggs.
Care: Fund mongoose eradication on conservation islands.
Cannot be kept responsibly in homes
Legal protection and arboreal specialist needs prohibit pet keeping.
Care: Donate to zoo conservation programmes instead.
Most iguanas are not beginner pets
Green iguanas grow to two metres and live twenty years — most owners are unprepared. Released pets become invasive. Consider adoption only if you can meet specialist reptile welfare standards.
