The Citrus Bearded Dragon is a visually striking morph known for its vibrant yellow and orange coloration, which can range from soft, lemony tones to deep, fiery oranges. This morph is a favorite among bearded dragon enthusiasts who love bright colors and unique appearances.
Citrus Bearded Dragon Features
The Citrus Bearded Dragon is easily recognized by its bright yellow and orange colors, which can vary in intensity. Some Citrus dragons have a lighter, pastel yellow hue, while others display rich, sunset-like shades of orange. This range of color is one of the reasons the Citrus morph is so popular—it offers a spectrum of shades, making each Citrus dragon slightly unique.
Additionally, Citrus Bearded Dragons tend to have clearer, more defined coloring than other morphs, with minimal dark or brown tones. This clean, vibrant look is one of the main attractions of the Citrus morph and sets it apart from other, more earth-toned bearded dragons.
Citrus Bearded Dragon Prices & Demand
Citrus Bearded Dragons are relatively common among morphs, but their popularity keeps demand high. Here’s an overview of their typical prices:
| Store | Price Range | Availability & Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| MorphMarket | $100 – $300 | Bright, intense colors may command higher prices. |
| PetSmart & Petco | $80 – $150 | Occasionally available; colors may be less intense. |
| Specialized Breeders | $200 – $400 | High-quality specimens with vibrant colors. |
The Citrus Bearded Dragon is a popular choice for both new and experienced keepers due to its beauty and manageable care requirements. Its bright colors make it a visually appealing pet, ensuring a steady demand.
Citrus Bearded Dragon Care & Diet
While the Citrus Bearded Dragon does not require drastically different care from other bearded dragons, certain aspects of their diet and habitat can help maintain their vibrant color:
- 🌞 Lighting and UV Exposure: UVB lighting and a basking area between 95-105°F (35-40°C) to maintain color and health.
- 🥕 Diet: A balanced diet with leafy greens, vegetables, and protein-rich insects; beta-carotene-rich foods enhance yellow and orange tones.
- 💧 Hydration and Humidity: Maintain 20-30% humidity; occasional baths help with hydration, especially during shedding.
- 🛁 Skin Care: Regular monitoring during shedding to prevent retained skin; avoid over-soaking.
Citrus Bearded Dragon Health Issues
With proper care, Citrus Bearded Dragons can live 10-15 years, similar to other bearded dragon morphs. However, it’s important to monitor their skin and color changes, as a dull appearance or faded color can sometimes indicate health issues.
Like other bearded dragons, Citrus morphs need adequate UVB exposure and a balanced diet to prevent metabolic bone disease and maintain their vibrant color. Regular check-ups with a reptile veterinarian can help ensure they remain healthy and that their colors stay bright.
Similar Variants
Several other morphs may resemble the Citrus morph due to their bright colors, but they are genetically distinct:
- Sunburst Bearded Dragon: Sunburst dragons also exhibit vibrant yellow and orange hues, but they tend to have more intense, almost fluorescent colors. They may also display an orange-banded tail, which is less common in Citrus dragons.
- Sandfire Bearded Dragon: Sandfire morphs can range from yellow to red and orange tones but usually have a slightly deeper color than the typical Citrus dragon. They are often more reddish than the soft yellows and oranges of the Citrus.
While these morphs may appear similar, the unique range of yellow-to-orange shades and the clean look of the Citrus Bearded Dragon make it easy to identify among other morphs.
November 4, 2024
Bearded Dragon Morphs: Exotic Varieties
Citrus Bearded Dragon Genetics & History
The Citrus Bearded Dragon morph is the result of selective breeding focused on enhancing yellow and orange pigmentation. Breeders carefully select dragons with vibrant colors and minimal darker tones to create the bright, citrus-like appearance. This trait can be achieved through various genetic combinations, though it is often the product of breeding yellow and orange dragons over multiple generations to intensify and clarify the colors.
The Citrus morph gained popularity quickly due to its visually appealing colors and ease of care, making it a favorite among both breeders and reptile keepers. This morph has become a staple in the bearded dragon community, especially among those who prioritize vibrant, warm colors.
Some Final Tips
The Citrus Bearded Dragon is an excellent choice for beginners, as its care requirements are similar to other bearded dragons, and it does not require additional specialized care. Beginners who appreciate bright colors and are committed to providing proper lighting, diet, and care will find the Citrus morph a rewarding and visually stunning addition to their reptile collection.