Swartberg dwarf chameleon


The Swartberg dwarf chameleon is a species of chameleon endemic to South Africa.

Taxonomy

For many years a dwarf chameleon of undetermined taxonomic status was known from the Swartberg area. A subsequent phylogenetic study resulted in its description as a new species. Morphologically it can be confused with B. gutturale but the two species are allopatric.

Description

It is a small chameleon not exceeding 12 cm. It is usually a pale yellow/brown with greenish hues.

Distribution

It is endemic to the Swartberg mountains, Western Cape, South Africa. It occurs in the Swartberg Nature Reserve. It is also found at Groot Swartberg.

Habitat

Swartberg dwarf chameleon is arboreal and inhabits mountain fynbos habitat.