Cameroon sailfin chameleon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cameroon sailfin chameleon |
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| Close-up of head and full body view of two males | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Trioceros
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| Species: |
montium
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| Range of Cameroon sailfin chameleon | |
| Synonyms | |
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Chamaeleo montium Buchholz, 1874 |
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The Cameroon sailfin chameleon or Cameroon two-horned mountain chameleon (Trioceros montium) is a species of chameleon endemic to Cameroon. It has a very unusual appearance.
Distribution and habitat
The Cameroon sailfin chameleon is found only in the Cameroonian highlands, including Mount Cameroon. Because it is almost entirely restricted to rainforests ranging from 700 to 1,900 m (2,300–6,200 ft) above sea level, it is estimated only a few locations support populations of the species. However, it has also been found in small farms and gardens.
Description
Cameroon sailfin chameleons usually are greenish with markings in various other colors, but commonly are brown when stressed, and males often turn bluish when displaying. Distinguishing features on males include two large horns just above the upper jaw which are used for jousting and a prominent dorsal "sail". The males can grow up to 25 cm (10 in) long and the females can grow up to 20 cm (8 in) long.
