[5][6][7] The Biak tree monitor is mainly yellow-green, although in captivity specimens frequently lose their yellow pigment and become turquoise in color.

Care is similar to that for other members of the Euprepiosaurus subgenus which includes the emerald tree monitor, Varanus prasinus.

Due to the stress of captivity, parasite loads often increase significantly and can cause serious problems such as anorexia, lethargy and failure to thrive or reproduce.

As inhabitants of tropical rainforests, Kordo Tree Monitors should be kept at an RH of 75% or higher to prevent dehydration and shedding problems.

They have been known to take many different food items in captivity, with staple diets usually consisting of crickets, roaches such as Dubia or Orange Head, grasshoppers and egg.