Short-horned chameleon
A species of Cryptic chameleon Scientific name : Calumma brevicorne Genus : Cryptic chameleon
Short-horned chameleon, A species of Cryptic chameleon
Scientific name: Calumma brevicorne
Genus: Cryptic chameleon
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Frank Vassen , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Calumma brevicorne, the short-horned chameleon, is a species of chameleon endemic to Madagascar.
General Info
Lifespan
5-10 years
Diet
Short-horned chameleon is known for its insectivorous diet, prominently feasting on arthropods. Specializing in ambush predation, it primarily targets ants, spiders, and various small insects, aiding in maintaining the ecosystems equilibrium.
Appearance
Short-horned chameleon is a small reptile with a chubby body and craggy skin. Its main coloration is light to dark brown, often mottled with splotches for excellent camouflage. This characterizing feature is joined by its most noticeable trait, a small horn-like projection over its nose that gives it a distinctive appearance. No significant differences in appearances are noted between age groups, genders, or subspecies.
Behavior
The short-horned chameleon primarily exhibits solitary behavior, rarely engaging with other members of its species outside of breeding periods. Notably, males are relatively territorial, using vibrant displays of skin color to intimidate potential rivals. Their distinct color-changing abilities also play a crucial role in camouflage, critical for their arboreal habitat, aiding in predation and avoiding threats. Interestingly, their entire body aids in tactile perception, an adaptation compensating for less developed visual capabilities.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By Frank Vassen , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Chameleons Genus
Cryptic chameleon Species
Short-horned chameleon