Knysna dwarf chameleon
A species of South african dwarf chameleons Scientific name : Bradypodion damaranum Genus : South african dwarf chameleons
Knysna dwarf chameleon, A species of South african dwarf chameleons
Scientific name: Bradypodion damaranum
Genus: South african dwarf chameleons
Content
Description General Info
Photo By jacquesmerwe923 , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The Knysna dwarf chameleon (Bradypodion damaranum) is a species of dwarf chameleon in the Bradypodion ("slow footed") genus that is endemic to South Africa. It is a forest dweller, found only in a limited range in the afromontane forests near Knysna, South Africa, and in certain surrounding areas.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Appearance
Knysna dwarf chameleon is a medium-sized chameleon, notable for its heavily granulated skin and laterally compressed body. It has a near-uniform olive-brown color, occasionally marked with faint darker stripes. Males are distinguishable by a curved rostral process, resembling a horn. The chameleon's prehensile tail is long and coiled, useful for mobility in its arboreal habitat. Its most distinctive attribute, the helmet-like casque behind its head, varies in prominence between individuals.
Behavior
Knysna dwarf chameleon is primarily arboreal, spending most of its time in trees, foraging for insects and berries. This solitary creature is highly territorial, fiercely defending its space from rivals. It camouflages well with the foliage, a key survival behavior in its natural habitat.
Population
Stable
Photo By jacquesmerwe923 , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Chameleons Species
Knysna dwarf chameleon