Trioceros deremensis (Matschie, 1892)

Scientific Naming and Distinctive Back Feature

The Usambara three-horned chameleon, scientifically named Trioceros deremensis (Matschie, 1892), has a sail-like ridge on its back and can reach a total length of up to 35 cm (14 in).

Male Size and Horn Function

Males grow larger than females, and adult males have three long horns that are presumed to be used in fights between males, similar to other horned chameleon species.

Horn Development Timing

The horns begin to develop when the chameleon is still a juvenile, at a length of 10–12 cm (4–5 in).

Female Horn Morphology

Females do not have horns.

Base Coloration

The species is typically overall green, often with a paler or darker pattern, and may also display some yellow coloring.

Irritation Color Change

When irritated, it develops black spots that can become quite prominent.

Reproductive Mode and Clutch Size

This is an oviparous species, and each clutch contains 8 to 40 eggs.

Hatchling Size and Color

Newly hatched young are only 5–7 cm (2–3 in) long, and can have a purplish-whitish color.

Altitude Range and Confirmed Distribution

The Usambara three-horned chameleon occurs at altitudes between 800–2,300 m (2,600–7,500 ft) in the East Usambara, Uluguru, Nguu, Nguru, and Udzungwa Mountains.

Unconfirmed West Usambara Record

There is a single old record of the species from West Usambara, but its presence there is considered doubtful.

Total Range Area

Its total range covers approximately 1,400 km2 (540 sq mi).

Subpopulation Isolation

Each of its subpopulations is isolated.

Habitat Preferences

The species is found mostly in forests, both in the forest interior and at forest edges, but also lives in nearby hedges and plantations.