Montane side-striped chameleon
A species of Horned chameleons Scientific name : Trioceros ellioti Genus : Horned chameleons
Montane side-striped chameleon, A species of Horned chameleons
Scientific name: Trioceros ellioti
Genus: Horned chameleons
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Carsten Kopschutz , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Montane side-striped chameleon exhibits an idealistic adaptation to forested environments with an arboreal lifestyle, spending a majority of their lives in the treetops. This species displays remarkable color variation, a behavioral characteristic used for communication purposes and to regulate body temperature. Predominantly insectivorous, montane side-striped chameleon makes use of a rapid, ballistic tongue in its feeding strategy.
General Info
Lifespan
3-5 years
Diet
Montane side-striped chameleon is primarily herbivorous, with a dietary focus on leaves, fruits, and flowers of various plant species. Occasional consumption of invertebrates like insects supplements its nutrient intake, however, plant material forms the primary food source.
Appearance
Montane side-striped chameleon is a medium-sized chameleon, with a sturdy body accented by a ridge of triangular scales down the spine. It features a unique horn-like rostral process protruding from its snout. Montane side-striped chameleon's skin shows a varying coloration, predominantly of a dark turquoise hue with streaks of yellow. Males are characterized by their longer rostral process and horn-like turret atop the head, which females lack.
Behavior
Montane side-striped chameleon is a diurnal, arboreal species, often occupying higher foliage during the day for basking. Known for its territoriality, males often engage in combat using horn-like projections. Solitary by nature, their communication is predominantly visual through body color changes. While not migratory, they do exhibit pronounced seasonal shifts in habitat use for optimal thermoregulation.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Chameleons Genus
Horned chameleons Species
Montane side-striped chameleon 
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