The black-throated monitor (Varanus albigularis microstictus) is a subspecies of monitor lizard in the family Varanidae. The subspecies is native to Tanzania.

Description

Varanus albigularis microstictus is usually a dark gray-brown with yellowish or white markings, and can reach up to 7 ft in total length (including tail) and weigh more than 60 lb. It is the largest of the four subspecies of the rock monitor, V. albigularis.

Etymology

The generic name, Varanus, is derived from the Arabic word waral ورل, which is translated to English as "warn" or "warning." The specific name, albigularis, comes from a compound of two Latin words: albus meaning "white" and gula meaning "throat". The subspecific synonym, ionidesi, is in honor of Constantine John Philip Ionides (1901-1968), called the "Snake Man of British East Africa".

Diet

In captivity V. a. microstictus feeds mainly on whole prey, such as mice, rats, snakes, lizards, freshwater mollusks, small birds, large roaches, crustaceans, fish, and eggs. It will commonly accept cat and dog food, which is not acceptable as a staple diet due to an improper nutrient profile and high caloric content. In the wild, it will eat anything it can catch.