Rhampholeon brevicaudatus
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| Rhampholeon brevicaudatus Matschie, 1892 |
Rhampholeon brevicaudatus, commonly known as the bearded leaf chameleon or bearded pygmy chameleon, is a chameleon originating from the eastern Usambara and Uluguru Mountains in northeastern Tanzania. It is easily distinguished from others in the Rhampholeon genus by the presence of a "beard" below the mouth, consisting of a few raised scales. At a full grown length of only a few inches (~3" or 8cm), it is marked by somewhat drab coloring in comparison to other chameleons, usually assuming a brown or tan coloring. It is quite capable of changing its coloration though, often taking on a shade to blend into the background and becoming darker when under stress. It is also capable of compressing its body laterally and producing a stripe down its side, mimicking a dead leaf. It often assumes this form when sleeping in the open. Males are distinguished by a longer tail, more prominent dorsal crest, slimmer body type, and persistent patterning. Like others in the Chamaeleonidae family, it is distinguished by independently rotating eye sockets and a tongue longer than its body.
[edit] Captive care
More partial to cooler temperatures than other chameleons, R. brevicaudatus prefers a temperature between 70-80F with a slight drop at night. It is unknown if they utilize UV light, and many keepers report success with simple halogen or fluorescent lighting. Basking lights may be provided but are generally not necessary, and care must be taken to keep the temperature down. Being quite small, a five to ten gallon glass aquarium can be used. Regular misting at least twice a day is required, with direct misting of the chameleon recommended. R. brevicaudatus feeds on small insects, in captivity they are partial to crickets, wax worms/moths, houseflies, and others. Though considered fairly hardy, care must be taken to prevent stress, as with other chameleons. Lifespan is generally several years.
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