Furcifer lateralis (Gray, 1831)

The carpet chameleon, scientifically named Furcifer lateralis (Gray, 1831), is also commonly called the jewel chameleon or white-lined chameleon. It is a chameleon species endemic to eastern Madagascar.

Size and Coloration

This is a relatively small chameleon; females in particular often have bright multi-coloured markings, while males are mostly green mixed with whitish or yellowish tones.

Taxonomic Separations

Two populations that were once classified under this species are now recognized as distinct separate species: the larger, less intensely coloured F. major from southern Madagascar, and the typically greenish F. viridis (which does not generally occur in a dark, blackish form) from western and northern Madagascar.

Geographic Range

Furcifer lateralis is found exclusively in eastern Madagascar, at elevations ranging from 120 metres (394 ft) to 1,925 metres (6,316 ft) above sea level.

Habitat Types

It inhabits forests, shrubby areas, grasslands, and well-vegetated gardens.

Conservation Status

This common species has a range covering more than 130,000 km² (50,000 sq mi), tolerates a degree of habitat degradation, and is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Pet Trade Regulation

An annual quota is set for collection of individuals for the pet trade.

Life Cycle Traits

Furcifer lateralis is a relatively fast-maturing, short-lived chameleon species. Individuals can breed as early as three months after hatching from eggs, and they rarely if ever live longer than three years of age.

Reproduction Details

Females lay between 8 and 23 eggs per clutch, and can produce up to three clutches in a single year. Eggs require a consistent temperature of around 24 °C (75 °F) and hatch after six months of incubation.