Kingdom Animalia Class Reptilia Suborder Lacertilia Rank Species | Phylum Chordata Order Squamata Family Chamaeleonidae | |
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Conservation status Endangered (Population decreasing) Similar Bizarre‑nosed chameleon, Calumma amber, Calumma malthe, Chameleons, Brookesia bonsi | ||
Vences' chameleon (Calumma vencesi) is a species of chameleon endemic to Madagascar. It was named after Miguel Vences, a German herpetologist.
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Distribution and habitat
The range of Vences' chameleon is not well understood; it is thought the total area is around 591 square kilometers. What is certain is that specimens have been collected from several forests in the northeastern corner of Madagascar. The species mostly inhabits the understories of humid forests in the lowlands.
Conservation and threats
The main threat to Vences' chameleon is habitat loss and degradation. While having a sizable range, the species is extremely intolerant of damaged habitat. Also, it has not been recorded in any protected areas, making it all the more vulnerable to logging and slash and burn agriculture. Fortunately, the illegal trade of this species seems to be virtually nonexistent.