The Mangrove monitor, also known as Varanus chlorostigma (formerly Varanus indicus), is a medium to large-sized monitor species. Adult individuals have a typical snout-vent length (excluding the tail) ranging from around 34-60cm.

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The coloration of Mangrove monitors is predominantly black with coloured spots or flecks covering the body. The color of these spots can vary between individuals, with some having strong yellow or yellow-green spots, while others have blue spots. Juveniles may exhibit more prominent tail banding. The underside of the monitor is light cream in color. It's important to note that young animals have brighter colors in their spots, which can change as they age.

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Mangrove monitors are a semi-arboreal and semi-aquatic species found in coastal river and mangrove habitats spanning from northern Queensland (QLD) cape to the northern coastal areas of the Northern Territory (NT).

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In recent years, Mangrove monitors have become more common in captivity. Once settled in, they become well habituated to human interaction and presence. Tong hand feeding can be easily established, although it's worth mentioning that they have a tendency to exhibit a strong feeding response, and some males may even bluff charge.

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If multiple animals are housed together, caution should be taken during feeding time as they can become quite aggressive toward each other over food. This behavior has been observed in large outdoor enclosures with several pairs.

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Husbandry for Mangrove monitors is relatively easy, with the exception of feeding responses. They do well in outdoor enclosures year-round in Far North Queensland (FNQ). In southern states, caution is needed during the cooler months, particularly to ensure that water sources are kept warm enough.

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For indoor keeping, a large enough water source should be provided for them to submerge, and it's important to consider that they can make quite a mess with water.

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Enclosure size: Given their semi-arboreal and semi-aquatic nature, both vertical and horizontal space should be provided. Large enclosures or pits can be used indoors or outdoors, considering the heating requirements. Enclosures for adults should be around 2m x 2m, but larger enclosures are preferable.

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Substrate and furnishings: Sand, soil, or large pebbles can be suitable substrates. Large pebbles are preferred for water species to prevent them from sticking to the wet body and being dragged into the water source, which can lead to faster fouling. Plenty of hollows, hides, and climbing branches are needed for their enrichment.

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Temperatures and lighting: Adequate UVB lighting is essential for internal keeping. A basking hot spot with a bright lamp directed onto a rock or tiles should be provided, with temperatures ideally ranging from 50-65°C. The ambient heat gradient over the rest of the enclosure should be around 28-33°C during the warmer active months.

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Humidity: Mangrove monitors are from the tropical north, so it's important to maintain humidity levels for this species. Frequent misting and a constant water source are required.

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Feeding: The bulk of their diet should consist of crickets, wood roaches, and other insects, with regular dusting of calcium powder and vitamins for young animals. Adults will consume whole prey such as fish, yabbies, prawns, rats, mice, quail, and other meats. It's important to maintain a well-balanced variety of food, considering the fat content. Note that a diet predominantly composed of frozen fish can lead to thiamine deficiency.

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Life span: Mangrove monitors have an average recorded captive lifespan of over 17 years.