Description
- Common Name: Green Tree Python
- Scientific Name: Morelia viridis
- Locality/Morph: Wamena Yellow Spot x Aru Cyclops (RED)
- Sex: Unsexed
- Age: 2026
- Source: Captive Bred in UK
- Native Range: Aru Islands, Indonesia
- Natural Habitat: Tropical lowland rainforests and coastal forests; an arboreal species occupying dense vegetation and forest canopies
- Diet: Carnivorous—appropriately sized rodents.
- Basking Temperature: 30–32°C
- Ambient Temperature: 25–28°C (night drop to 23–25°C)
- Average Adult Size: 120–180 cm total length
The Aru locality Green Tree Python (Morelia viridis) is a striking arboreal python originating from Indonesia’s Aru Islands. This locality is well regarded for its typically large adult size, elongated body, and vibrant green adult coloration, often complemented by a distinctive blue dorsal stripe or scattered blue markings. Juveniles are typically yellow, undergoing a dramatic colour transformation to green as they mature.
A vertically oriented enclosure with ample climbing and perching opportunities is essential. Multiple sturdy horizontal perches of varying diameters should be provided at different heights, allowing the snake to thermoregulate while exhibiting its natural resting posture. Artificial or live foliage, cork bark, and visual barriers help create a secure environment and reduce stress.
Temperatures should be maintained as a gentle gradient, with a warm basking area and cooler retreat zones available throughout the enclosure. Moderate to high humidity, combined with good ventilation, is important for proper hydration, successful shedding, and respiratory health. A fresh water bowl should always be available and positioned where it can be easily accessed.
Aru Green Tree Pythons generally establish well in captivity and readily accept appropriately sized frozen-thawed rodents. Feeding frequency should be adjusted according to the snake’s age, size, and body condition, with care taken to avoid overfeeding, as this species can be prone to obesity in captivity.
Renowned for their exceptional beauty and iconic coiled resting posture, Aru Green Tree Pythons make impressive display animals. While captive-bred specimens are typically calmer than wild-caught individuals, they remain a hands-off species that benefits from minimal handling and careful attention to environmental conditions. With appropriate husbandry, they can thrive in captivity and reward keepers with many years of healthy growth.
