[2] Varanus albigularis microstictus is usually a dark gray-brown with yellowish or white markings, and can reach up to 7 feet (2.1 m) in total length (including tail) and weigh more than 60 pounds (27 kg).

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".

[3] 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.