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Chameleon Experiments

Carrying out an experiment for a science class involving a reptile, such as a chameleon, can be an exciting an educational task. Most chameleons have simple needs and taking care of them is fairly easy. Consider basing a project around these interesting creatures, but get permission from a teacher or parent before beginning.
  1. Do Chameleons See in Color?

    • The chameleon gecko sees best at night. Design an experiment which tests the vision of a chameleon gecko at dusk or when sunlight is not quite gone. Consider making two tubes, one blue and one gray. Both shades should be the same, medium to dark in color. Over a two-week course, place tubes in the aquarium with the chameleon gecko, noting which tube was chosen each night. Note findings and record results.

    Make a Chameleon Change Color

    • With the permission of a teacher or an adult, purchase a chameleon for use. Prepare for the experiment by purchasing an aquarium, mirror, a red light and a yellow light. Over the course of three days, ascertain if a chameleon can be stimulated enough by light that he will change colors. Turn the red light on in his environment one day and turn the yellow light on the next. Add a false sense of discomfort by placing a mirror inside his aquarium, making the chameleon think another reptile is in his home. Record results and present findings.

    Changing Patterns

    • Since chameleons are diurnal, or active during the day, create an experiment where sleep patterns are changed over a course of two weeks. For the first two to three days keep normal sleep patterns intact. During the days that follow, turn on a light in the room with the chameleon which simulates daytime. Consider leaving it on overnight for more than 12 hours. Make notes of any changes and compare the behavior patterns with those exhibited by humans experiencing jet lag. Present findings.

    Create a Maze

    • Like experiments where mice or hamsters are tested for deduction abilities, design an experiment in which a chameleon runs a maze. Build two different mazes, making one very simple and the other moderately difficult. Run tests over a week, taking one day for environment adjustment by placing the chameleon inside the maze. On the second day, place the chameleon at the beginning of the maze and time his ability, if he begins at all. Repeat the same process with the moderately difficult maze. Record results and present findings.

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