Pygmy Chameleons
a.k.a. Dwarf Chameleons, Leaf Chameleons, Stump Tail Chameleons.
Brookesia sp.
Rhampholeon sp.
Description
Pygmy chameleons, as the name suggests, are small members of the Chameleonidae.
Not only are they the smallest members of the chameleon family, they are
among the smallest of all lizards. There are two different genera of pygmy
chameleon: Brookesia and Rhampholeon. Within these genera are several species*:
B. decaryi, B. ebenaui, B. minima, B. perarmata, B. peyrierasi, B. stumpffi,
B. superciliaris, B. thieli, B. vadoni, R. brevicaudatus, R. kerstenii,
R. marshalii, and R. spectrum. All Brookesia species hail from Madagascar
and all Rhampholeon species are indigenous to mainland Africa. They are
primarily ground-dwellers, and are colored like leaf-litter, with brown,
tan, gold and green hues. Pygmy chameleons range in size from 4-8 centimeters.
Little is known about their lifespan, but with proper care they can be expected
to live from between 2-4 years.
Natural Habitat
All pygmy chameleons are indigenous to Africa, with species distinctions between the mainland and Madagascar (see above). Within their habitats, pygmy chameleons are primarily circumterraneous, spending most of their time amongst leaf litter or perched on low-lying branches. Though topographically diverse, they inhabit environments that are similar with rich soils, ample moisture and subdued lighting.
Artificial Habitat
Pygmy chameleons, unlike many other species, do not require screen enclosures. A 20-30 gallon aquarium with a screen top or split-screen top is perfectly adequate for several pygmy chameleons. Because of their propensity to remain near the ground, length of the enclosure is more important than width. The substrate should be dirt or potting soil with an ample supply of dead leaves, mosses, branches, twigs, and other detrital like substances. Small (circumference-wise) twigs and branches and/or low-lying plants should be provided for climbing area. Pygmy chameleons like a high relative humidity, but do not like to be perpetually damp. This can be achieved by regular light misting or by maintaining good warmth and providing a large (albeit shallow) water dish. Lighting should be full-spectrum, but subdued (think forest floor). Lighting filtered through plant/branch covering is ideal.
Diet
Pygmy chameleons, like all chameleons, are insectivores. Due to their small size however, small insects such as pinhead crickets, wax worms, small mealworms, fruit flies, and termites should be offered. Some sources suggest that pygmies have a preference for light or white-colored foods, but we have not noticed this. As with all reptiles and amphibians, prey items should be dusted with an appropriate supplement such as T-Rex Chameleon Dust.
Caveats
Although pygmy chameleons quite hearty, due to their miniscule size, they are susceptible to both stress and injury. They are best observed rather than handled, and if handling is necessary it should be done with the utmost care. Furthermore, a pygmy chameleon’s feet are not adapted to grasp large branches (or fingers) and therefore should be supported by the palm of the hand. Also due to their diminutive size care should be taken to provide them with small prey items—larger insects could injure them. While humidity levels should remain high in their habitat, consistent dampness should be avoided.
Why would I want a Pygmy Chameleon?
Pygmy chameleons have the same appealing attributes of larger species (e.g. independent occipital lobes, extendable tongue, and Jurassic appearance) but at one-tenth the size. Pygmy chameleons make excellent vivarium pets provided that the correct habitat is created for them. They are miniscule, relatively inexpensive and do well in a communal situation, which affords hobbyists the opportunity to observe several of these fascinating creatures with a limited amount of space and expense.
*Taxonomy is not static; according to some sources as many as 45 species of Brookesia and Rhampholeon have been described, and most agree that there are many more that have yet to be described.