The word Calumma comes from the Latin word for covering. This genus consists of chameleons from Madagascar with occipital lobes.
Furcifer oustaleti (Oustalet’s Chameleon) is the longest chameleon species reaching lengths of 27 inches (68cm).
Chameleons change color by rearranging a lattice of nanocrystals in one of their top layers of skin cells called iridophores. Chameleons can then stretch this layer, broadening the nanocrystalline lattice, thereby causing it to reflect a different wavelength of light.
Kinyongia uthmoelleri and Trioceros quadricornis gracilor have red claws.
Chameleon fossils have been found in central Europe and China, indicating they were once much more widespread than they are now.
Trioceros goetzei (Goetze’s Chameleon) emits an audible, high pitched whistle when threatened.
Furcifer labordi (Labord’s Chameleon) has the shortest lifespan of only 4-5 months. It also has the shortest lifespan of any tetrapod!
Chameleons can project their tongue up to 2.2 times their body length.
The chameleon tongue accelerates towards its target at over 1642m per second. Chameleons rarely miss their intended food item.
Many chameleon species have a bright red, orange or yellow mouth. This conspicuous interior when displayed is used as a defense against predators.