Bearded leaf chameleon
A species of African leaf chameleons Scientific name : Rieppeleon brevicaudatus Genus : African leaf chameleons
Bearded leaf chameleon, A species of African leaf chameleons
Scientific name: Rieppeleon brevicaudatus
Genus: African leaf chameleons
Content
Description General Info
Description
Rieppeleon brevicaudatus, commonly known as the bearded leaf chameleon or bearded pygmy chameleon, is a chameleon originating from the eastern Usambara and Uluguru Mountains in northeastern Tanzania and Kenya. It is easily distinguished from others in the Rieppeleon genus by the presence of a "beard" below the mouth, consisting of a few raised scales. At a full grown length of only 3 in (8Â cm), it is marked by somewhat drab coloring in comparison to other chamel
General Info
Lifespan
5-7 years
Diet
Feeding largely on small arthropods, bearded leaf chameleon demonstrates a specific preference towards tiny insects. A significant portion of its diet consists of soft-bodied prey, particularly Drosophila fruit flies.
Appearance
Bearded leaf chameleon is a small chameleon measuring up to 8 cm long. It has a compressed body and rough skin that mimic leaf textures. Its coloration is predominantly brown, blending with its natural habitat. Both sexes bear a short tail, which gives the species its common name. Notably, males have a more pointed snout and more prominent rostral process than females.
Behavior
Bearded leaf chameleon displays predominantly solitary behavior, operates mainly during the day, and uses meticulous camouflage for in-situ survival. Remarkably low-energy, it remains sedentary for extended periods and performs minimal foraging in its arboreal habitation. Bearded leaf chameleon lacks elaborate territorial marking or defense mechanisms, considering its largely motionless lifestyle.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Chameleons Genus
African leaf chameleons Species
Bearded leaf chameleon