About Trioceros rudis (Boulenger, 1906)
Common Names and Taxonomic Identity
Trioceros rudis, commonly called the coarse chameleon, rudis chameleon, Ruwenzori side-striped chameleon, or Rwenzori bearded chameleon, is a species of chameleon.
Native Geographic Range
Its native range spans western Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Taxonomic Misidentification in Tanzania
Contrary to widespread belief, this species does not live on Mount Meru, Tanzania; any chameleons found in Tanzania previously identified as T. rudis are actually the species T. sternfeldi.
General Habitat Type
This chameleon typically occurs in open habitats, most often living in low bushes and shrubs in what is described as "patchy open country".
Specific Transitional Habitat Zones
It specifically occupies transitional zones located between grasslands, reedbeds, and montane heath.
Species Size
T. rudis is a small species, reaching an overall length between 10 and 15 cm (3.9 to 5.9 inches).
Morphological Features
It has no horns or occipital lobes, and is distinguished by a long tail and a small crest.
