Carpet Chameleon

The Carpet Chameleon (Furcifer lateralis), also known as the white-lined chameleon, is a species of chameleon that is endemic to Madagascar. It was described in 1831 by John Edward Gray. Furcifer lateralis is also commonly known as the jewel chameleon, the white-lined chameleon, and the carpet chameleon.

Furcifer lateralis can grow to a maximum length of between 17 and 25 centimeters in both sexes. Males are primarily green, but females have larger bodies, and a greater variety of colors, including white, yellow, and orange bands. The lips and throats of both sexes are striped. They have the ability to alter their color depending on their mood and the surrounding environment, and they typically start the day with a dark color to allow them to quickly warm up by being exposed to sunshine. This species is one of the tiniest "genuine" chameleon species, and it is fearful and timid. The major form is currently acknowledged as a distinct species called Furcifer major.