Influence of riparian habitats on the distribution of rainforest chameleons in Parc National de Ranomafana, Madagascar

Abstract

The spatial and seasonal distribution of chameleon species along ecological gradients within six riparian areas in Parc National de Ranomafana was studied using transects. Eight species of chameleons were recorded (Palleon nasus, Brookesia superciliaris, B. thieli, Calumma gastrotaenia, C. glawi, C. nasutum, C. crypticum and C. oshaughnessyi), of which four showed significant association to the riparian edge: P. nasus, C. gastrotaenia, C. glawi and C. nasutum. These distribution patterns may be related to interspecific differences in roosting ecology, demography structure and feeding behaviour.