Calumma gastrotaenia
The Perinet chameleon (Calumma gastrotaenia), also known as the Malagasy side-striped chameleon, is a small and slender lizard endemic to the humid primary forests of eastern and central Madagascar, often found near rivers. It is characterized by its elongated head and body, smooth skin that can be green, brown, or yellow, and a distinctive thin stripe running along its sides and across its eyes. Males are larger and possess a bony head crest.
Key Facts
- ›Endemic to humid primary forests in eastern and central Madagascar.
- ›Typically found along rivers at elevations between 600 and 1,530 meters.
- ›Characterized by a thin side stripe that runs from the tail base across the eyes.
- ›Males are larger than females and have a bony head crest.
- ›Listed on CITES Appendix II, with exports from Madagascar banned since 1995.
Perinet Chameleon, Malagasy Side-Striped Chameleon
Madagascar
Humid Primary Forests, Riverside Habitats
- Small and Slender, Reaching 15–20 cm In Length.
- Elongated Heads and Bodies.
- Smooth, Uniformly Green, Brown, Or Yellow Skin.
- White Undersides.
- A Thin Stripe Runs From Tail Bases Along the Sides and Across the Eyes, Sometimes With White Spots.
About Calumma gastrotaenia
Perinet Chameleon (Calumma gastrotaenia)
The Perinet chameleon, scientifically known as Calumma gastrotaenia and also called the Malagasy side-striped chameleon, is a small lizard species native to Madagascar. It inhabits the humid primary forests of the eastern and central parts of the island, with a particular preference for areas along rivers. These chameleons are typically found at elevations ranging from 600 to 1,530 meters.
Description and Characteristics
Perinet chameleons are characterized by their small, slender build, reaching lengths of 15 to 20 centimeters. They possess elongated heads and bodies. Their skin is smooth and can vary in color, appearing uniformly green, brown, or yellow, with a distinct white underside. A defining physical trait is a thin stripe that extends from the base of their tail, running along the sides of their body and across their eyes, which may sometimes be accompanied by white spots. Males are generally larger than females and possess a notable bony crest on their head.
Conservation and Trade
Due to its specific habitat requirements and potential for exploitation, the Perinet chameleon is listed on CITES Appendix II. This designation means that international trade in the species is regulated. To further protect wild populations, exporting the Perinet chameleon from Madagascar has been banned since 1995.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Perinet chameleon?
The Perinet chameleon, scientifically known as Calumma gastrotaenia, is a small species of chameleon native to Madagascar. It is also commonly referred to as the Malagasy side-striped chameleon.
Where does the Perinet chameleon live?
This species is endemic to the humid primary forests of eastern and central Madagascar. They are often found in close proximity to rivers and inhabit elevations ranging from 600 to 1,530 meters.
What are the physical characteristics of the Perinet chameleon?
Perinet chameleons are small and slender, typically measuring 15–20 cm in length. They possess elongated heads and bodies with smooth skin that can be green, brown, or yellow, contrasted by white undersides. A notable feature is a thin stripe extending from their tail bases along their sides and across their eyes.
Are there differences between male and female Perinet chameleons?
Yes, male Perinet chameleons are generally larger than females. Additionally, males are distinguished by the presence of a bony head crest, a feature not found in females.
What is the conservation status and trade regulation for the Perinet chameleon?
The Perinet chameleon is listed on CITES Appendix II, which regulates international trade in the species. Exporting this chameleon from Madagascar has been prohibited since 1995 to help protect its wild populations.
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