Argentine Black and White Tegu: History, Facts, Size, Habitat, Classification & Much More

By Tyler Swan

Reptiles are a fascinating group of animals, and one particular species that has caught our attention is the Argentine Black and White Tegu. These creatures boast an interesting history and a range of intriguing facts that make them stand out among other reptiles. In this blog post, we will explore various aspects of the Argentine Black and White Tegu, including its size, habitat, and classification.

The Argentine Black and White Tegu, also known as Tupinambis merianae, is native to South America. These reptiles have a long history, having roamed the earth for millions of years. They have evolved to adapt to various habitats, including forests, grasslands, and even suburban areas. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are generally docile and make popular pets among reptile enthusiasts.

One notable feature of the Argentine Black and White Tegu is its size. These reptiles can grow up to four feet long and weigh around 15 pounds. This makes them one of the larger species of tegus. They have a sleek black body with white stripes, which gives them their distinctive appearance.

The classification of the Argentine Black and White Tegu places it in the reptile family Teiidae and the order Squamata. These tegus fall under the genus Tupinambis, which encompasses different species. Their classification sheds light on their evolutionary relationship with other reptiles.

In this blog post, we will delve deeper into the fascinating world of the Argentine Black and White Tegu. From their ancient history to their striking appearance and unique characteristics, these reptiles never cease to amaze us. So join us as we explore the various aspects of these remarkable creatures and expand our knowledge of the reptile world. Remember, there are plenty more reptiles waiting to be discovered, as we already have an article on 155+ Reptiles Name. So stay tuned for more exciting insights!

History of Argentine Black and White Tegu

The Argentine Black and White Tegu is a reptile that originates from South America. It is known for its unique black and white coloration, with a thick body and a long tail. This species is native to the grasslands, forests, and swamps of Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil.

The history of the Argentine Black and White Tegu goes back hundreds of years. This reptile has been a part of the cultural and natural landscape of South America for a long time. Indigenous communities used to hunt tegus for their meat and skin, making them an important resource for survival. Over time, people started keeping them as pets due to their appealing appearance and docile nature.

In recent years, the Argentine Black and White Tegu has gained popularity as an exotic pet all around the world. However, this has led to concerns about its impact on local ecosystems. When released into the wild, tegus can become invasive species, meaning they can harm the natural balance of the environment. This is why it is crucial to be responsible when owning a tegu and to never release them into the wild.

The Argentine Black and White Tegu is not only a fascinating reptile with a rich history, but it also plays an important role in the ecosystem it inhabits. Understanding and respecting these creatures is essential to preserve their natural habitats and ensure their long-term survival. By learning about the history and proper care of the Argentine Black and White Tegu, we can appreciate the beauty and significance of these reptiles in our world.

Importance of Argentine Black and White Tegu

The Argentine Black and White Tegu is a very important reptile. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem. Firstly, tegus help control the population of small animals like rodents, snakes, and insects. They eat these animals, helping to keep their numbers in check. This helps to maintain a balance in the ecosystem, preventing any one species from becoming too dominant.

Secondly, tegus also help in seed dispersal. When they eat fruits or seeds, they pass them out later in their waste. These seeds are then spread around in different areas, helping new plants to grow. This is important for the biodiversity of a habitat.

Lastly, the Argentine Black and White Tegu is also an important predator itself. It preys on many small animals that could cause harm to humans or their crops. By keeping the populations of these animals low, the tegu helps to reduce any potential dangers or losses.

In summary, the Argentine Black and White Tegu is significant because it helps control the populations of small animals, aids in seed dispersal, and acts as a predator for harmful animals. Without tegus, the ecosystem could become imbalanced, leading to negative consequences for humans and other species.

Amazing Facts About Argentine Black and White Tegu

1. The Argentine Black and White Tegu is a type of reptile that comes from South America.
2. It belongs to the family Teiidae and is known by its scientific name Salvator merianae.
3. These tegus can grow quite large, reaching up to 4 feet in length and weighing around 15 pounds.
4. As the name suggests, they have a distinct pattern of black and white stripes or bands on their body.
5. The tegu’s head is quite distinctive, with a long snout, strong jaws, and sharp teeth.
6. They are omnivorous animals, meaning they eat both plants and animals as part of their diet.
7. Argentine Black and White Tegus have a keen sense of smell, which helps them locate food.
8. These reptiles are excellent swimmers and are often found near water bodies like rivers or streams.
9. They are mainly diurnal, which means they are active during the day and sleep at night.
10. Tegus are known for their intelligence and can recognize their owners over time.
11. They have a docile temperament and can become quite friendly if they are well cared for and handled gently from a young age.
12. Tegus are known for their ability to dig burrows, creating a system of tunnels underground where they can hide and escape extreme temperatures.
13. During the breeding season, female tegus lay a clutch of around 20 to 40 eggs, which they bury in a carefully prepared nest.
14. Argentine Black and White Tegus are not venomous, but they do have a strong bite and can cause injury if mishandled or agitated.
15. In their native habitat, they play an important role in controlling pest populations by feeding on insects, rodents, and small reptiles.

Can we keep Argentine Black and White Tegu as our Pet?

Argentine Black and White Tegu Reptiles are not suitable pets for us to keep. These reptiles should not be introduced or brought into our homes. It’s important to note that they are not extinct, but it is still crucial to understand why we can’t keep them as pets.

The Argentine Black and White Tegu Reptile is known for its large size and aggressive behavior. Keeping them as pets can be dangerous for both the reptile and the people around them. These reptiles require a specific environment and diet to stay healthy, which is not easy to provide in a domestic setting. They need a lot of space to roam, sufficient heat, and a varied diet that includes insects and small animals. It is difficult to recreate these conditions in our homes, leading to the reptile’s distress and an unsuitable pet-owner relationship.

Moreover, the introduction of Argentine Black and White Tegu Reptiles into new environments can have negative consequences for native species. These reptiles are not naturally found in many areas, so releasing them into the wild could disrupt local ecosystems. They may outcompete and prey upon native species, potentially causing their decline or extinction.

Therefore, it is important to respect the natural habitat and ecological balance of the Argentine Black and White Tegu Reptiles. While they are fascinating creatures, it is best to appreciate them from afar and support conservation efforts to protect them in their natural habitat.

Size of Argentine Black and White Tegu

The Argentine Black and White Tegu reptile is famous for its size. It can grow quite big, reaching up to 4 feet long from its snout to the tip of its tail. To give you an idea, that’s roughly the height of a grown-up person! These lizards are also quite heavy, weighing around 20 to 30 pounds. So, they are quite large and can be a bit intimidating.

When they are newly hatched, Argentine Black and White Tegus are very small, measuring only around 6 inches long. But they grow rapidly, especially during their first few years. As they eat a lot of food and get all the necessary nutrients, they quickly develop into big reptiles.

Their size makes them one of the largest lizards in their habitat. Despite their impressive size, they are still agile creatures that can move swiftly. Their long tail helps them maintain balance while running and climbing trees. Also, their strong jaws and sharp teeth allow them to eat a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, insects, small mammals, and even bird eggs.

In summary, the Argentine Black and White Tegu reptile can grow to be quite large, up to 4 feet long and weighing around 20 to 30 pounds. They start off small but quickly grow in size during their first few years. Despite their size, these lizards are still fast and agile, thanks to their long tails and strong jaws.

Habitat of Argentine Black and White Tegu

The Argentine Black and White Tegu reptile is native to South America, particularly in countries like Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. These reptiles are commonly found in areas with sprawling grasslands, open woodlands, and tropical rainforests. The warm and humid climate of these regions provides the perfect habitat for the tegus to thrive.

These reptiles are known to be highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of habitats. They are often found near rivers, streams, and marshes, as they enjoy the presence of water. The Argentine Black and White Tegu also prefer areas with dense vegetation, such as shrubs and bushes, which provide them with ample hiding spots and protection from predators.

The habitat of the Argentine Black and White Tegu also includes burrows and tunnels. Tegus are excellent diggers and often create complex networks of underground tunnels for shelter and hibernation during the colder months. These burrows also protect them from extreme weather conditions and provide a safe place to lay their eggs.

In conclusion, the Argentine Black and White Tegu reptile can be found in the grasslands, woodlands, and rainforests of South America. They prefer warm and humid climates with access to water sources like rivers and marshes. With their ability to dig burrows, they create underground networks for shelter and hibernation. These reptiles are well adapted to their habitat and rely on the vegetation and natural features of their environment for survival.

Evolution of Argentine Black and White Tegu

The Argentine Black and White Tegu is a reptile that has gone through a fascinating evolution. Many years ago, the ancestors of these tegus lived in South America, specifically in Argentina and parts of Brazil. These ancient tegus were much smaller in size compared to the ones we see today. They lived in dense forests and had a diet mainly consisting of insects and small vertebrates.

As time passed, the environment around the tegus started to change. Large areas of forests were cleared for farming and human settlements. This forced the tegus to adapt to their new surroundings. They began to grow larger in size and developed a taste for a broader range of food, including fruits, eggs, and small mammals. This change allowed them to survive in the changing landscape.

One of the most noticeable features of the Argentine Black and White Tegu is its ability to adapt to different environments. They can now be found not only in the forests but also in grasslands, swamps, and even urban areas. This adaptability has made them very successful in surviving and thriving in different habitats. Despite their evolving appearance and behavior, they continue to play an important role in the ecosystems they inhabit, helping control populations of rodents and insects.

In summary, the Argentine Black and White Tegu has come a long way in its evolution. From its small forest-dwelling ancestors, these tegus have grown bigger, changed their diet, and adapted to different environments. They have successfully adapted to the changing world around them, showing us the amazing power of evolution and the ability of organisms to survive and thrive in diverse conditions.

Classification of Argentine Black and White Tegu

The Argentine black and white tegu is a kind of reptile that is found in certain parts of South America. It belongs to the family Teiidae and is scientifically known as Tupinambis merianae. This fascinating creature is well-known for its large size and distinct color pattern. It can grow up to four and a half feet in length, with its body covered in black scales and white stripes.

In terms of classification, the Argentine black and white tegu falls under the category of reptiles. Reptiles are a group of animals that are cold-blooded and have scaly skin. Within the reptile family, the tegu belongs to the lizard group. Lizards are reptiles that have long bodies, four legs, and a tail. The Argentine black and white tegu also belongs to the genus Tupinambis. The genus is a rank in the classification system, which groups similar species together.

The classification of the Argentine black and white tegu can be understood by its scientific name. The first part of its scientific name, Tupinambis, refers to the genus it belongs to, while the second part, merianae, refers to the species within that genus. This scientific naming system helps scientists and researchers identify and categorize different species accurately.

In conclusion, the Argentine black and white tegu is classified as a reptile, specifically a lizard. It belongs to the family Teiidae and the genus Tupinambis. With its striking black and white coloration, the tegu is a unique and interesting reptile found in parts of South America.

Different Types of Argentine Black and White Tegu

1. Argentine Black and White Tegu (Salvator merianae)
– This reptile is native to South America, specifically Argentina and Brazil. It is also known as the ‘Argentine Giant Tegu’ due to its large size, which can reach up to 4 feet in length. They have a unique black and white pattern on their skin.

2. Omnivorous Diet
– Argentine Black and White Tegus have an omnivorous diet, meaning they eat both plants and animals. They feed on a variety of fruits, vegetables, insects, and even small mammals. This diverse diet allows them to thrive in different habitats.

3. Impressive Size
– These tegus can grow quite large, with males reaching around 3 to 4 feet in length, while females are slightly smaller. Their impressive size and strong, muscular bodies make them formidable reptiles in their natural habitat.

4. Intelligent and Curious Nature
– Argentine Black and White Tegus are known for their intelligence and curious behavior. They are quick learners and can be trained to recognize their owners. They often explore their surroundings and are known to be quite curious creatures.

5. Burrowing Habit
– These tegus are skilled burrowers and often dig deep burrows to escape extreme temperatures or find shelter. Their powerful claws and muscular bodies allow them to create complex underground tunnels where they can rest and hide.

6. Sun-loving Reptile
– Argentine Black and White Tegus are ectothermic reptiles, which means they rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. They spend a lot of time basking in the sun to absorb warmth, boosting their energy levels.

7. Social Reptiles
– Unlike many other reptiles, Argentine Black and White Tegus display social behavior. They often live in small groups called ‘tongs’ and communicate through various body movements and gestures. They even exhibit signs of affection towards their owners.

8. Popular as Pets
– Due to their striking appearance and relatively calm temperament, Argentine Black and White Tegus have become popular pets. However, their large size and specialized care requirements make them suitable for experienced reptile owners.

9. Seasonal Hibernation
– These tegus undergo a period of hibernation, known as brumation, during the colder months. They dig deep burrows and reduce their activity levels to conserve energy. During this time, they slow down their metabolic processes and remain dormant.

10. Threats and Conservation Status
– Despite their popularity as pets, Argentine Black and White Tegus face threats in the wild. Habitat destruction, illegal pet trade, and hunting have led to a decline in their populations. They are currently listed as a species of ‘Least Concern’ on the IUCN Red List.

Geographical Presence of Argentine Black and White Tegu

The Argentine Black and White Tegu reptile is mainly found in South America, specifically in the regions of Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil. These reptiles prefer warm and tropical climates, which is why they thrive in these areas. They are commonly spotted in grasslands, forests, and savannas, where they can find plenty of food and shelter.

However, Argentine Black and White Tegus are not found in other parts of the world. They have not been observed in North America, Europe, Asia, or Australia. This is because their natural habitat and preferred climate are limited to South America. While they may be kept as pets in other regions, they are not naturally found there.

It’s important to note that the Argentine Black and White Tegu is an invasive species in some areas where it has been introduced outside of its natural range. In places like the United States, particularly in the state of Florida, these tegus have been introduced by the exotic pet trade or escaped from captivity. This can negatively impact native wildlife and ecosystems, as the tegus can outcompete local species for resources.

In summary, the Argentine Black and White Tegu is primarily found in South America, specifically in Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil. They are not naturally found in other regions of the world, although they might be kept as pets in some places. In certain areas, such as Florida in the United States, they have become invasive and pose a threat to native species.

Scientific Name of Argentine Black and White Tegu

The scientific name of the Argentine Black and White Tegu reptile is Salvator merianae. Native to South America, this reptile can grow up to 4 feet in length and has a unique black and white pattern on its body. It is widely known for its ability to adapt to different habitats, including forests, grasslands, and even near human settlements.

The Argentine Black and White Tegu belongs to the family Teiidae, which includes a diverse group of reptiles called tegus. These reptiles have strong bodies, sharp claws, and a distinctive forked tongue, similar to other reptiles like snakes or lizards. The tegu’s diet mainly consists of fruits, vegetables, eggs, and sometimes small animals like insects or rodents.

The Argentine Black and White Tegu is a popular reptile in the pet trade due to its docile nature and interesting appearance. However, it is important to note that this species is also an invasive species in some regions outside of its native habitat. In these areas, the tegu can disrupt local ecosystems by competing with native species for resources. Therefore, it is crucial to manage and prevent the escape or release of pet tegus to protect the natural balance of the environment.

Diet of Argentine Black and White Tegu

The Argentine black and white tegu reptile has a diverse diet. It likes to eat both meat and plants. In the wild, their diet consists of small creatures like insects, spiders, frogs, and small mammals. They also eat fruits and vegetables, such as berries and leaves. Tegus are found in South America, where they can easily find these food items in their natural habitat.

When kept as pets, Argentine black and white tegus need a well-balanced diet to stay healthy. They require a mix of animal protein and plant matter. Good sources of protein for them can include insects like crickets and mealworms, as well as small rodents and eggs. To provide the necessary plant matter, they can be given vegetables like squash, carrots, and leafy greens. It is important to vary their diet and offer different types of food to ensure they get all the nutrients they need.

It is recommended to feed tegus small, frequent meals rather than one large meal. This helps them digest their food more easily. It is also important to remember that while tegus enjoy a varied diet, they should not be fed too much fatty food, as this can lead to health problems. Providing them with a healthy diet and proper care will help them thrive and live a long, happy life.

Locomotion of Argentine Black and White Tegu

Argentine Black and White Tegu reptiles move in a unique way. They use their legs to walk on land, just like we do! These reptiles have four legs and a long tail which helps them balance. When they walk, they move one leg at a time. They take small steps and their legs go forward and backward, like a dance. This walking style helps them move quickly and smoothly through their environment.

In addition to walking, Argentine Black and White Tegus are great swimmers. They have a muscular body and a flat-shaped head, which helps them glide through the water. They use their strong tail to propel themselves forward, making graceful movements in the water. Whether on land or in the water, these reptiles know how to use their bodies to move around and explore their surroundings. Their locomotion skills are truly fascinating!

Social and Sexual Behaviour of Argentine Black and White Tegu

The Argentine Black and White Tegu reptile has interesting social and sexual behaviors. These reptiles are known for living in groups called colonies. Within these colonies, they can be seen interacting with each other by using different body signals and movements. They use their tails to communicate with others. If they are feeling threatened, they will shake their tails in a warning sign to stay away. This helps them to establish territories and hierarchies among themselves.

When it comes to mating, Argentine Black and White Tegus have a unique behavior compared to other reptiles. During the breeding season, males compete for the attention of females. They do this by performing a courtship ritual, which involves head bobs and tongue flicking. The male will approach the female and circle around her, showing off his tail and vibrant color patterns. If the female is interested, she will allow the male to mate with her.

In conclusion, Argentine Black and White Tegus have fascinating social and sexual behaviors. They live in colonies, using body signals and tail movements to communicate with each other. During the breeding season, males perform a courtship ritual to attract females. It’s amazing how these reptiles have their own unique ways of interacting and reproducing.

Reproduction and Lifecycle of Argentine Black and White Tegu

The Argentine Black and White Tegu reptile has a fascinating life cycle. They go through a process called reproduction to create new offspring.

To begin this process, adult tegus mate during the warmer months of the year. A male tegu will search for a female tegu to mate with. Once they find a suitable partner, they engage in a courtship behavior where they perform a series of movements and rituals to attract each other. Once they have successfully mated, the female will store the male’s sperm until she is ready to lay her eggs.

The next stage in the life cycle is the egg-laying process. Female tegus dig a nest in sandy soil where they lay their eggs. They can lay anywhere from 15 to 35 eggs at a time. After the eggs are laid, the female will cover them up and leave them to incubate. The eggs will be warm and protected underground until they are ready to hatch. This process usually takes around two to three months.

The final stage in the life cycle is hatching. When the baby tegus are fully developed inside their eggs, they will begin to break out of their shells. This can take some time and effort. Once they have successfully hatched, the baby tegus are ready to start their independent lives. They are small and vulnerable at first, but they grow quickly and become self-sufficient in finding food and shelter. As they continue to grow, they will go through changes in their appearance until they resemble their adult counterparts. And the life cycle of the Argentine Black and White Tegu reptile starts all over again.

Threats to Argentine Black and White Tegu

The Argentine Black and White Tegu reptile is facing several threats that put its existence at risk. One of the main challenges is habitat loss. As humans continue to expand their cities and agriculture, the reptile’s natural home, which includes forests and grasslands, is being destroyed. When their habitat shrinks, these reptiles struggle to find enough food and places to hide from predators.

Another threat to the Argentine Black and White Tegu is the illegal pet trade. People catch these reptiles and sell them as exotic pets in different countries. This practice not only puts stress on their population, but it also disrupts their natural balance in the ecosystems they live in. It is important to remember that keeping wild animals as pets can have negative consequences for both the animals and the environment.

Lastly, climate change is also impacting the Argentine Black and White Tegu. Rising temperatures and changes in rainfall patterns can affect their breeding habits and food availability. Additionally, extreme weather events like storms or droughts can destroy their nests, eggs, and food sources. These reptiles need stable and suitable conditions to survive, and climate change makes it harder for them to adapt and thrive.

To protect the Argentine Black and White Tegu, we need to take action. This can involve creating protected areas where they can live safely without human interference, enforcing laws to prevent illegal pet trade, and educating people about the importance of conserving these reptiles and their habitats. It is crucial that we all work together to safeguard these reptiles and ensure their survival for future generations.

Population of Argentine Black and White Tegu

The population of the Argentine Black and White Tegu reptile is currently estimated to be around 20,000 individuals. These reptiles are native to South America, particularly in areas of Argentina, Paraguay, Brazil, and Uruguay. They are known for their distinctive black and white coloration and their ability to grow up to four feet in length.

However, it is important to note that there is a threat to the population of this reptile species. Due to factors such as habitat loss, climate change, and human activities, the Argentine Black and White Tegu is facing the risk of extinction. If this were to happen, it would be a great loss to the biodiversity of these regions.

Efforts are being made to conserve this species and protect their natural habitats. Conservation organizations are working to raise awareness about the importance of these reptiles and their role in the ecosystem. It is crucial that we take action now to preserve the population of the Argentine Black and White Tegu and prevent their extinction. By protecting their habitats and implementing sustainable practices, we can ensure the survival of this unique and valuable reptile species for future generations.

Conclusion

In summary, the Argentine Black and White Tegu is a fascinating reptile that can be found in parts of South America. This reptile has a long history and is known for its unique features and behavior. Let’s now take a closer look at its facts, size, habitat, and classification.

Firstly, the Argentine Black and White Tegu is a type of reptile that belongs to the tegu family. It is known for its distinctive black and white coloration, which gives it its name. These reptiles can grow up to 4 or 5 feet in length, making them quite large compared to other reptiles. They also have a long lifespan, with some individuals living up to 20 years!

Secondly, the Argentine Black and White Tegu can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and even urban areas. They are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals. They have a strong bite and sharp teeth, which help them catch their prey.

In conclusion, the Argentine Black and White Tegu is a fascinating reptile that has captured the interest of many people. Its unique appearance, size, and habitat make it an intriguing creature to study. Whether you’re a reptile enthusiast or simply curious about the world of animals, the Argentine Black and White Tegu is definitely a reptile worth learning more about!

Frequently Asked Questions about Argentine Black and White Tegu (FAQ’s)

Q1: What is an Argentine Black and White Tegu reptile?
A1: An Argentine Black and White Tegu reptile is a species of large lizard native to South America.

Q2: How big can an adult Argentine Black and White Tegu grow?
A2: Adult tegus can reach lengths of up to 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters) and weigh between 10-20 pounds (4.5-9 kilograms).

Q3: What is the lifespan of an Argentine Black and White Tegu?
A3: In captivity, they can live up to 15-20 years or even longer with proper care.

Q4: What is the typical habitat of the Argentine Black and White Tegu?
A4: They are found in various habitats such as grasslands, rainforests, and savannas in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Brazil.

Q5: What do Argentine Black and White Tegus eat?
A5: Tegus are primarily omnivorous, feeding on a diet consisting of small mammals, reptiles, insects, fruits, and vegetables.

Q6: Can they be kept as pets?
A6: Yes, Argentine Black and White Tegus can make good pets with proper handling and care.

Q7: Are they easy to handle?
A7: Tegus can be easily tamed if they are properly socialized from a young age. However, they may become defensive or aggressive if not handled correctly.

Q8: Do they require any special housing?
A8: Yes, tegus need large enclosures with plenty of space to move around, bask, and hide. A secure lid is also necessary as they are skilled climbers and escape artists.

Q9: How often should an Argentine Black and White Tegu be fed?
A9: As growing juveniles, tegus should be fed daily, while adults can be fed every other day or a few times a week.

Q10: Are they prone to any specific health issues?
A10: Like any pet, tegus can develop health issues such as metabolic bone disease, obesity, and respiratory infections if not provided with appropriate care.

Q11: Can they be housed together with other tegus?
A11: It is generally not recommended to house multiple adult tegus together as they can become territorial and aggressive towards each other.

Q12: Are Argentine Black and White Tegus legal to own as pets in all areas?
A12: The legality of owning a tegu as a pet can vary depending on your location. It is important to check local laws and regulations before acquiring one.

Q13: Are they good with children?
A13: Argentine Black and White Tegus are not recommended as pets for younger children due to their size and potential for aggression if mishandled.

Q14: Do they require any specific temperature or humidity levels?
A14: Tegus require a basking area with a temperature of around 100°F (38°C) and an ambient temperature of 75-85°F (24-29°C). They also need moderate humidity levels.

Q15: Can Argentine Black and White Tegus be trained or taught tricks?
A15: Tegus have the ability to recognize and respond to their owners, but training them to perform tricks may be challenging. Basic obedience training can be achieved with patience and rewards.

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