Spectral pygmy chameleon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Spectral pygmy chameleon |
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| Rhampholeon spectrum | |
| Conservation status | |
Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | Squamata |
| Suborder: | Iguania |
| Family: | Chamaeleonidae |
| Genus: | Rhampholeon |
| Species: |
R. spectrum
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| Binomial name | |
| Rhampholeon spectrum |
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The spectral pygmy chameleon (Rhampholeon spectrum) is a tiny lizard. It is also called the western pygmy chameleon or Cameroon stumptail chameleon. These chameleons are known as "dwarf" or "leaf" chameleons. They live in mainland Africa.
Where They Live
The spectral pygmy chameleon lives in several African countries. These include Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, and Gabon. They might also be found in the Central African Republic, the Republic of the Congo, and Nigeria.
What They Look Like
These chameleons are very small. They grow to about 10 cm (4 in) long. They have short tails that can still grasp things. You can often find them on the ground or in low bushes in forests.
Color and Markings
Spectral pygmy chameleons can change their color. They usually change to dull shades like tan or gray. Sometimes, they have a stripe from their eye to the base of their tail. This stripe is not always visible. They can also show bright streaks and blotches.
Special Features
Even though they are small, they have features like bigger chameleons. Their eyes can move in different directions at the same time. They have special feet with toes that can grip branches. They also have long tongues that shoot out to catch food. Male chameleons have wider tail bases than females.
How They Behave
These chameleons do not move around much. They are not territorial like other chameleons. This means they do not fight over their living space. They eat small invertebrates, which are creatures without backbones. Scientists do not know much about how they reproduce. These chameleons seem to prefer cooler temperatures.
 | William Lucy |
 | Charles Hayes |
 | Cleveland Robinson |
