Bearded Dragon (Striped)
Scientific Name: Pogona vitticepsCommon Name: Bearded Dragon (Striped)
Species Overview
Size: Adults typically reach 18 to 22 inches (46 to 56 cm), with males slightly larger and broader-headed.
Appearance: Striped Bearded Dragons display defined lateral striping along the dorsolateral area (polygenic trait). The stripes vary in width and intensity, giving a visually appealing contrast to the body. Overall body structure and morphology remain standard for the species.
Distribution: Native to the arid interior regions of central Australia.
Habitat: Wild Bearded Dragons inhabit dry scrublands, semi-desert plains, rocky outcrops, and open woodlands. In captivity, they thrive in spacious terrestrial enclosures with basking areas, climbing structures, and secure hides.
Behaviour: Bearded Dragons are diurnal, active, and alert. They display normal behaviours including basking, digging, climbing, arm-waving, and head-bobbing. Expression of the stripe pattern does not affect temperament.
Captive Care
Enclosure: Provide a terrestrial enclosure at least 48 inches24 inches24 inches (1206060 cm). Use a soilsand substrate mixture that is dry on top but deep enough to retain some moisture in the lower layers, supporting natural digging behaviour. Include basking platforms, hides, branches, rocks, and open floor space.
Temperature & Humidity:
-
Basking area: 110 to 115F (43 to 46C)
-
Warm side: 88 to 95F (31 to 35C)
-
Cool side: 75 to 82F (24 to 28C)
-
Night temperatures may drop to 68 to 72F (20 to 22C)
-
Humidity should remain 3040%
Lighting: Provide strong full-spectrum lighting and high-output UVB (1012%) for 1214 hours daily. Proper UVB and heat gradients support calcium metabolism and natural behaviour.
Diet: Offer a varied omnivorous diet including crickets, roaches, silkworms, hornworms, black soldier fly larvae, leafy greens, vegetables, and occasional fruits. Juveniles require daily feeding; adults eat every 12 days. Use calcium and multivitamin supplements.
Behaviour in Captivity: These dragons are active, exploratory, and responsive. They bask, dig, climb, and display natural behaviours when provided with proper husbandry.
Special Considerations: Ensure proper UVB exposure, secure enclosure, substrate depth, and heat gradients. Overfeeding or insufficient lighting can lead to metabolic issues.
Taxonomy Note
The Bearded Dragon belongs to the genus Pogona, a group of Australian agamids adapted to arid environments. Pogona vitticeps is widely kept due to its hardy nature, manageable size, and engaging personality.
Genetics Note
Striped (polygenic):Striped produces defined lateral striping along the dorsolateral area. Expression varies between individuals depending on polygenic contributions.
Genetic Combination Summary:This Bearded Dragon expresses Striped, producing clear lateral striping along the body. The trait can be passed to offspring according to polygenic inheritance patterns.
