The Yellow Spotted Ameiva, also known as the "Tiger Ameiva", or "Chaitzam's Ameiva" is a fairly common ameiva in the pet trade.

Most Yellow Spotted Ameivas are known to become quite docile with regular handling, though males may show aggression and can become quite territorial. For this reason, it is often suggested that males not be housed together. In the wild this ameiva lives in brushlands or woodlands. Like most ameivas, the Yellow Spotted Ameiva is somewhat hyperactive and can be difficult to hold. Their tails may also come off when they are handled, so it is essential that care be taken when they are picked up. In captivity they can be housed in a 40-gallon terrarium, though juveniles may be housed in a smaller enclosure. Make sure to include plenty of logs, plants, and branches for climbing, as well as dark hiding spots. In addition, a thick substrate is recommended because ameivas like to dig and burrow. They should also have a warmer basking area as well as cooler areas. Water bowls are also a must, for soaking and drinking. In captivity the Yellow Spotted Ameiva does quite well on a varied diet that may include waxworms, mealworms, earthworms, crickets, and pinky mice. Though they are carnivorous, they have been known to eat a piece of fruit occasionally.

At maturity the Yellow Spotted Ameiva reaches between 25.4 and 30.5 centimeters (10 to 12 inches) in length. The Yellow Spotted Ameiva may be distinguished from some other popular ameivas by the presence of two interparietals. Like most ameivas and whiptails, the Yellow Spotted Ameiva has a characteristic pointed snout with large rectangular scales on its belly. The Yellow Spotted Ameiva is characterized by black and yellow stripes that begin in the eye area and run down their sides to the mid-rear of their bodies. The yellowish white stripes are much thinner than the black stripes. Their bellies are typically lighter than the upper part of their bodies.

Yellow Spotted Ameivas are native to the Southern parts of Mexico.

The Yellow Spotted Ameiva needs a humid environment that can range from high levels to moderate. Misting their enclosure every three to four days should create the proper environment, though frequency will be determined by the humidity of the ambient environment.

Gradient temperatures are recommended. Daytime temperatures should be about 80 degrees Fahrenheit at the coolest end with a baking area about 90 degrees, while nighttime temperatures should be dropped to between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They should have full spectrum lighting for about 13 hours per day.

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