Types of Large Chameleons

Part of the family Chamaeleonidae, chameleons are lizards that feature zygodactylous feet, which have two toes forward and two backward, like parrots. Other characteristics of chameleons include stereoscopic eyes, which can move independently at the same time; long and quick tongues, adapted to catch insects; and the ability to change color. The 160 recognized species of chameleons are found in warm habitats, such as the desert and the tropical rainforest. Chameleons vary in size from rare species less than 2 inches to large species more than 25 inches. Large chameleons include members of the genera Furcifer, Calumma, Chamaeleo and subgenus Trioceros.
  1. Chamaeleo

    • The genus Chamaeleo include species native to Africa, Asia and Southern Europe. Most are arboreal, living in tree branches, and can measure up to 16 inches in length. One of the largest species in this genus is the Yemen or veiled chameleon (Chamaeleo calyptratus), with males reaching up to 24 inches and females measuring about 12 inches.

    Trioceros

    • Trioceros, a subgenus of the genus Chamaeleo, includes about 20 species of horned chameleons. Large species in this group include Meller's chameleon (Chamaeleo melleri), which is native to Africa and can reach up to 25 inches in length. This chameleon has a small single horn on the tip of the snout. Color ranges from brown and black to dark green and yellow. Another large species within this group is the three-horned or Jackson's chameleon (Chamaeleo jacksonii), reaching up to 15 inches.

    Calumma

    • With species reaching up to 27 inches, Calumma chameleons are native to Madagascar, and like most chameleon species found in the island, they are protected against illegal exportation. Parson's giant chameleon (Calumma parsonii) is the largest representative in the genus. They show green to blue body colors, and some subspecies of Parson's giant chameleon have bright orange eyes.

    Furcifer

    • Furcifer is a genus of chameleons mostly found in Madagascar, which show a wide color variation, including green, light blue, brown, pink and orange. The panther chameleon (Furcifer pardalis) male can grow up to 20 inches and lives up to 10 years in captivity, while the Malagasy giant chameleon (Furcifer oustaleti) can measure up to 27 inches.

Learnify Hub © www.0685.com All Rights Reserved