Chameleons or chamaeleons family Chamaeleonidae are a distinctive and highly specialized clade of Old World lizards with species described as of June Chameleons are distinguished by their zygodactylous feet; their very extensive, not highly modified, rapidly extrudable tongues; their swaying gait; [2] and crests or horns on their brow and snout. Most species, the larger ones in particular, also have a prehensile tail. Chameleons' eyes are independently mobile, but in aiming at a prey item, they focus forward in coordination, affording the animal stereoscopic vision. Chameleons are adapted for climbing and visual hunting. They live in warm habitats that range from rain forest to desert conditions, with various species occurring in Africa, Madagascar , southern Europe, and across southern Asia as far as Sri Lanka. They also have been introduced to Hawaii , California , and Florida , and often are kept as household pets. Since that time, however, the validity of this subfamily designation has been the subject of much debate, [10] although most phylogenetic studies support the notion that the pygmy chameleons of the subfamily Brookesiinae are not a monophyletic group.
EYES EVERYWHERE
Skin of many colors
Lovely lizards. In the reptile world, there are some bizarre shapes and colors, but some of the most striking variations are found in the chameleons. These colorful lizards are known for their ability to change their color; their long, sticky tongue; and their eyes, which can be moved independently of each other. Get a handle on it. Chameleons spend their life in trees and bushes. Most lizards have five toes, but the chameleon's five toes are modified into groups: on the forefoot, the two outside toes are joined to form one group, and the three inside toes form another; the hind foot has the opposite arrangement. This allows them to grasp branches just like our thumbs and fingers can grasp objects. For this reason, the chameleon's tail cannot be broken off and regrown like those of many other lizards.
HABITAT AND DIET
All rights reserved. Chameleons mostly live in the rain forests and deserts of Africa. The color of their skin helps them blend in with their habitats. Chameleons that hang out in trees are usually green. Those that live in deserts are most often brown.
Chameleons are reptiles that are part of the iguana suborder. These colorful lizards are known as one of the few animals that can change skin color. However, it is a misconception that chameleons change colors to match their surroundings. With so many different species, there are many different sizes.
