The distribution of Varanus melinus is restricted to the the island of Obi in the Moluccas, Indonesia. But because these data are only known by the dealer, who shipped some animals over to Germany and the USA, it is no sure, that it is correct (BÖHME & ZIEGLER 1997). It is also reported, that V. melinus might occur on the Sula Islands, western Moluccas.
BAYLESS & ADARGNA (1999) reported, that V. melinus also might occur on Taliabu, Bowokan, and Banggai Island. Till now, no reports of the occurency of this monitor on Sulawesi are published.
There are no data available on the habitat preferences and the food items, V. melinus prefers in the wild.