Fischer's chameleon


Fischer's chameleon is a species of chameleon, a lizard in the family Chamaeleonidae. The species is endemic to Tanzania.

Etymology

The specific name, fischeri, is in honor of German herpetologist Johann Gustav Fischer.

Geographic range

K. fischeri is restricted to the Nguru and Nguu Mountains of Tanzania. Chameleons found in other parts of the Eastern Arc Mountains as well as Kenya are now classified as separate species.

Taxonomy

A number of other species have been mistakenly called by this species' name or classified as subspecies. In 2008, it was shown that they actually are their own, distinct species. The true Fischer's chameleon is rare with a more restricted distribution than previously believed. Although formerly considered common in captivity, virtually all "Fischer's chameleons" in the pet trade are now known to actually be the other species. Only three true Fischer's chameleon are known to have entered captivity.