Carpet chameleon
A species of Malagasy chameleons, Also known as Jewel chameleon Scientific name : Furcifer lateralis Genus : Malagasy chameleons
Carpet chameleon, A species of Malagasy chameleons
Also known as:
Jewel chameleon
Scientific name: Furcifer lateralis
Genus: Malagasy chameleons
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Bernard DUPONT , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Furcifer lateralis, also known as the carpet chameleon or the white-lined chameleon, is a species of chameleon that is endemic to Madagascar. It was described in 1831 by John Edward Gray.
General Info
Lifespan
3-5 years
Diet
The dietary habits of carpet chameleon primarily involve the consumption of various insect species. This includes crickets, flies, and other small insects, which it actively hunts in its natural habitat using its tongue's impressive reach. Its diet is also occasionally supplemented with leaves and other foliage, demonstrating a degree of omnivorous tendencies.
Appearance
Carpet chameleon is a medium-sized chameleon displaying variable coloration, primarily green with red and yellow markings. It has a compact body, smooth skin, and a prehensile tail, which it uses for gripping. This species possesses a distinctive dorsal crest, and males are identifiable by their larger size and more pronounced crest. Its flattened body is adorned with a pattern of stripes or spots, depending on its mood.
Behavior
Carpet chameleon is a primarily diurnal and arboreal species. They exhibit solitary tendencies except during mating season. This species utilizes color changes for various purposes, including camouflage, thermoregulation, and communication. Carpet chameleon exhibits a unique territorial defense strategy by expanding their bodies and showing bright colors to intimidate rivals.
Population
Stable
Photo By Bernard DUPONT , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Chameleons Genus
Malagasy chameleons Species
Carpet chameleon