Glaw's chameleon
A species of Cryptic chameleon Scientific name : Calumma glawi Genus : Cryptic chameleon
Glaw's chameleon, A species of Cryptic chameleon
Scientific name: Calumma glawi
Genus: Cryptic chameleon
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Brian Gratwicke , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Endemic to Northern Madagascar, glaw's chameleon occupies a unique niche in its montane rainforest habitat. This chameleon species is a master of camouflage, its color-changing ability aiding in both predation and predator evasion. Additionally, it exhibits ovoviviparity, unusual in reptiles, retaining eggs within the female body until they are ready to hatch, improving offspring survival in its challenging ecosystem.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Glaw's chameleon primarily feeds on a diet of arthropods, with a particular preference for insects. Digital manipulation allows it to access prey in complex settings, affording a versatile and opportunistic feeding pattern.
Appearance
Glaw's chameleon is a medium-sized chameleon notable for its extremely long, thin nose appendage. Its body features a striking mix of green and white patches, outlined by black perimeters for contrast. Males are discernible by their larger nasal appendages compared to females. Its skin, like other chameleons, changes color depending on mood and environmental conditions.
Behavior
Glaw's chameleon is known for its arboreal solitude, spending the majority of its time in the canopy. It is primarily active during the day, displaying substrate-grip foraging and cryptic behaviors, leveraging its natural color-shifting camouflage for both hunting and evasion. The species is also territorially solitary, with males asserting dominance through ridgeline displays.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By Brian Gratwicke , 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
Glaw's chameleon