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Furcifer pardalis Cuvier, 1829 — Non-native; Introduced. Panther Chameleon Singapore records. No published records. Remarks. Furcifer pardalis is endemic to Madagascar and adjacent islands (Glaw 2015), and is a very popular chameleon in the pet trade. On 6 April 2006, an apparently released individual was photographed at SBG (K.S. Lioe pers. comm.). LKCNHM & NHMUK Museum specimens. No specimens. Additional Singapore museum specimens. No specimens. Family Gekkonidae Gray, 1825 (1 species) Genus Hemidactylus Oken, 1817 (1 species), Published as part of Figueroa, Alex, Low, Martyn E. Y. & Lim, Kelvin K. P., 2023, Singapore's herpetofauna: updated and annotated checklist, history, conservation, and distribution, pp. 1-378 in Zootaxa 5287 (1) on page 252, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5287.1.1, http://zenodo.org/record/7960319, {"references":["Glaw, F. (2015) Taxonomic checklist of chameleons (Squamata: Chamaeleonidae). Vertebrate Zoology, 65 (2), 167 - 246. https: // doi. org / 10.3897 / vz. 65. e 31518"]}

While we generally understand the optimal ultraviolet B (UVB) environment for the growth and reproduction of female Panther Chameleons Furcifer pardalis, we do not know the relative importance of UVB irradiance and dose for optimal husbandry outcomes. Accordingly, we experimented with Panther Chameleon females to test the hypothesis that UVB dose (irradiance × exposure duration) determines the outcome, regardless of the combination of UVB irradiance and exposure duration generating the dose. We varied UVB irradiance and exposure duration across treatment groups while keeping dose similar and within a range previously documented to result in reproductive success. The growth rate, age of maturity, and measurable vitamin D status were not significantly different among the treatment groups. Individuals in all groups produced viable eggs that successfully hatched. Thus, we found some support for the hypothesis that the UVB dose determines the outcome regardless of UVB irradiance. However, mean egg vitamin D3 concentration and percent hatching were higher in the highest UVB irradiance group, despite similar doses among the three groups. Preliminary field data reveal that this species occupies UV irradiance Zone 4 in Madagascar, the highest zone for reptiles recorded. Only the irradiance of the high UVB irradiance group in our experiment approached this zone and resulted in the best reproductive success. Biosynthesis of vitamin D3 and provisioning to eggs is more efficient when exposure to UVB irradiance is similar to that in their natural environment. Establishing an optimal UVB environment, based on knowledge of the natural UVB environment, is important for the propagation of Panther Chameleons in captivity.

Summary Intracellular epidermal inclusions were detected within histological sections of skin biopsies from two panther chameleons (Furcifer pardalis) with chronic cheilitis. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed the abundant presence of icosahedral intracytoplasmic and intranuclear viral particles in infected keratinocytes, with an average diameter of 120–125 nm, consistent with herpesviruses (HVs). TEM also revealed the presence of virions in intercellular spaces and keratinocyte nuclei and features suggestive of capsid assembly, nuclear egress with primary envelopment and anterograde transport leading to virion assembly and release. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) primers targeting a conserved region of herpesvirus DNA-dependent DNA polymerase were used to amplify and sequence a product from a nested HV PCR performed on skin biopsies of both chameleons. Comparative sequence analysis indicates that the virus detected in both chameleons was a novel member of the Alphaherpesvirinae, which we refer to as chamaeleonid herpesvirus 1 (chamHV 1). Based on the identical findings in both chameleons, we consider chamHV 1 to be a candidate aetiological agent of cheilitis in panther chameleons. This is the first report of skin lesions in a chameleon species associated with HV infection.

Squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most common malignant epithelial tumors in dogs and cats and shows also a high incidence in human population. Chemical and physical carcinogens as well as viral infections have been shown to predispose epithelial cells to genetic cell damage, leading to formation of neoplastic precursor cells or promoting tumor proliferation. A number of herpetological cases are documented in literature, most of these being solitary tumors with rare tendency of metastasis. Our study describes 7 cases of multicentric epidermal squamous cell tumors in male panther chameleons (Furcifer pardalis). Two of these cases, which were examined by necropsy with the owners’ consent, showed distant metastasis into the lungs. In order to elucidate the etiology of these cases the submitted tissues were scanned by transmission electron microscopy for the detection of viral particles. No viral particles were visible ultrastructurally. Pan-papilloma-, irido-, rana-, adeno- and herpesvirus-PCRs (polymerase chain reaction) were performed on all of the tissues but could not demonstrate corresponding virus-specific sequences. Universal PCRs for para- and orthopox viruses applied on one sample also yielded negative results. Three different therapeutical approaches namely surgical excision, cryosurgery, and the use of a topical immune response modifying cream Imiquimod, are discussed.

International audience; Colour change is involved in various functions ranging from thermo-and hydroregulation to camouflage and communication. The role of colour change in communication has received increased attention over the past few decades, yet has been studied predominantly in the context of intrasexual competition. Here, we investigate the role of colour change in mate choice in an animal that can change its colour, the panther chameleon (Furcifer pardalis). We conducted behavioural experiments and colour analysis to investigate whether colour changes, including in the UV range, are involved in mate choice. This study presents evidence of female mate choice for specific aspects of colour change in courting males, both in the visible (i.e. human visible range: 400-700 nm) and the UV range. Females chose males exhibiting more saturation changes regardless of the body region and spectral range. In addition, females chose males showing fewer brightness changes at the level of the lateral line and males showing lower hue changes at the level of the bands and the interbands, in the visible range. At UV wavelengths, selected males showed more brightness changes and higher maximum brightness. These results suggest that male colour change is important in female mate choice in the panther chameleon.

[Figure][1] A male panther chameleon ( Furcifer pardalis ) attempting to attract a female. Photo credit: Alexis Dollion. Flickering from green to blue, red and yellow in the blink of an eye, panther chameleons ( Furcifer pardalis ) turn up the colour for a range of reasons, from warning

Quadruplets, Triplets and Twins in Chameleons (Sauria: Chamaeleonidae)

Atypical brucellae show deviant phenotypes and/or genotypes. Besides Brucella inopinata, B. microti and B. vulpis, atypical strains have been described infecting humans, rodents, amphibians and fish. They represent potential zoonotic agents. Here, we provide evidence that reptiles as the remaining poikilothermic vertebrate class also represent susceptible hosts for atypical Brucella. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s10482-020-01448-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Greenberg, A. & P. Nečas (2020)Fluorescence Predicts Survival of Chameleon Eggs.Archaius 1 (2): 13-14

Савончик, М. & П. Нечас (2020) Пантеровый хамелеон, Furcifer pardalis (Cuvier, 1826) (Reptilia: Chamaeleonidae), с глазами на небе полости рта. – Archaius 1 (2)

Savonchik, M.& P. Nečas (2020)A Panther Chameleon, Furcifer pardalis (CUVIER, 1826) (Reptilia: Chamaeleonidae) with eyes on the roof of mouth cavity.–Archaius 1&nbsp

Савончик, М.& П. Нечас (2020)Пантеровый хамелеон, Furcifer pardalis (Cuvier, 1826) (Reptilia: Chamaeleonidae), с глазами на небе полости рта.–Archaius 1 (2):&nbsp

Nečas, P. (2020)Tongue Punching,an unknown secondary antipredatory function of the tongue-shootingin chameleons (Reptilia: Chamaeleonidae).– Archaius 1 (1): 1 – 3

Reptile parasites imported from the wild differ from those grown in captivity. Thus, captive-grown reptiles tolerate the process of disadaptation better than imported wild animals, even under proper conditions of keeping and feeding. It should be noted that determining the origin of reptiles is sometimes difficult or impossible. For this, special methods are needed. In this regard, the purpose of research was to confirm or refute the theory, in reptiles from different places of residence, various parasites are found. We studied panther chameleons (Furcifer pardalis) imported from the wild and raised in captivity. To determine the parasites in the laboratory, methods of native smear, sequential washing and flotation were used. 10 species of intestinal parasites were found in panther chameleons imported from the wild, in particular Trematoda gen. sp. 1, Tremaitoda gen. sp. 2, Cestoda gen. sp., Spinicauda freitasi (Olfers, 1919), Hexametra angusticaecoides (Chabaud et Brygoo, 1960), Pharyngodonidae gen. sp., spirurates of the genus Thubunaea sp., larvae of the family Rhabdiasidae gen. sp., flagellates from the series Kinetoplastida gen. sp. and Eimeria sp, with prevalence 87.56%. In panther chameleons grown in captivity only Pharyngodonidae gen. sp. was found, prevalence was 94.05%. It is noted that under appropriate conditions of keeping and feeding in captive panther chameleons, a small number of parasites with a direct development cycle and their insignificant toxic effect on the body can develop

Veiled chameleons (Chamaeleo calyptratus) and panther chameleons (Furcifer pardalis) are the most popular chameleons over the world, and consequently, two of the most frequent species presenting to veterinary practices. However, published studies on normal ultrasonographic anatomy for these lizards are currently lacking. The objectives of this prospective anatomic study were to develop an ultrasound protocol for evaluation of the coelomic cavity in these species and describe the normal ultrasonographic anatomy of the coelomic organs. Seventeen healthy veiled chameleons and 15 healthy panther chameleons were included. A linear 18 MHz transducer was used. Chameleons were sedated and restrained in right lateral recumbency by an assistant. Longitudinal and transverse images were acquired, and authors recorded qualitative and quantitative ultrasonographic characteristics of the coelomic structures. The kidneys, liver, caudal vena cava, hepatic veins, portal vein, gallbladder, wall of the stomach and intestine, gonads and, when distended, urinary bladder could be visualized during ultrasonography of the coelomic cavity in both species. The spleen, pancreas, and adrenal glands could not be identified. Findings from the current study supported the use of ultrasonography for veiled chameleons (Chamaeleo calyptratus) and panther chameleons (Furcifer pardalis) with suspected intracoelomic diseases and provided normal reference information for future studies of these chameleon species.

Chameleons of all species, have proven extremely delicate animals to work with in captivity. Many health concerns arise when they are maintained in improper conditions, from infections to inadequate nutrition, all of which will lead to the deterioration of the animals wellbeing and ultimately, a shortened lifespan. Therefore, understanding the most important problems which commonly occur in captive chameleons and the factors responsible for said problems, is paramount to the successful breeding and maintenance of chameleons in captivity. Furcifer pardalis or Panther Chameleons are one of the most common chameleons found in the pet trade, due in part to their impressive size, stunning variation in colouration, specialised morphological traits, unique personalities and most importantly, their relative hardiness when maintained in captivity. All of the aforementioned traits make Panther chameleons an exciting species to work with and an enjoyable challenge to successfully maintain, for the interested herpetologist. The aim of this paper, is to comprehensively review the history, anatomy and health issues associated with Panther chameleons and the current husbandry techniques used in maintaining said animals in captivity. The methods described in this paper are up to date guidelines for the successful husbandry of captive Panther chameleons and are as a result of many years of experience in keeping and breeding both Panther chameleons and various other chameleon species, whilst also drawing from expert literature in the field of captive chameleon husbandry. Hopefully, this review aids in improving our knowledge on the captive needs of F. pardalis and ultimately leads to greater future success in the field.

Bile acids are considered a sensitive indicator for liver function in mammals and birds, and protein electrophoresis is a routine test used in mammals to differentiate inflammatory responses. The objective of this study was to establish reference intervals for bile acids and protein electrophoresis in clinically healthy panther chameleons (Furcifer pardalis) under similar husbandry conditions. Blood samples from 84 captive panther chameleons were collected in January and August from the ventral coccygeal vein and processed for protein capillary zone electrophoresis and enzymatic–photometric measurements of bile acids. Reference intervals for bile acids were similar to other reptile species, but those for protein electrophoresis differed considerably, with α-globulins as the second most predominant fraction after albumin. Significant differences between males and females were found in α1- and γ-globulin fractions. Three diseased panther chameleons that died within a few months after sampling had a...

Over a period of 7 years (2004-2011), samples from 34 diseased reptiles provided by local governments, zoos, and pet shops were tested for viral infection. Animals were diagnosed based on clinical signs, including loss of appetite, diarrhea, rhinorrhea, and unexpected sudden death. Most of the exotic animals had gastrointestinal problems, such as mucosal redness and ulcers, while the native animals had no clinical symptoms. Viral sequences were found in seven animals. Retroviral genes were amplified from samples from five Burmese pythons (Python molurus bivittatus), an adenovirus was detected in a panther chameleon (Furcifer pardalis), and an adenovirus and a paramyxovirus were detected in a tropical girdled lizard (Cordylus tropidosternum). Phylogenetic analysis of retroviruses and paramyxoviruses showed the highest sequence identity to both a Python molurus endogenous retrovirus and a Python curtus endogenous retrovirus and to a lizard isolate, respectively. Partial sequencing of an adenoviral DNA polymerase gene from the lizard isolate suggested that the corresponding virus was a novel isolate different from the reference strain (accession no. AY576677.1). The virus was not isolated but was detected, using molecular genetic techniques, in a lizard raised in a pet shop. This animal was also coinfected with a paramyxovirus.

Though international trade is increasing, the significance of imported reptiles as carriers of pathogens with relevance to animal and human health is largely unknown. Reptiles imported to Germany were therefore investigated for blood parasites using light microscopy, and the detected parasites were morphologically characterized. Four hundred ten reptiles belonging to 17 species originating from 11 Asian, South American and African countries were included. Parasites were detected in 117 (29%) of individual reptiles and in 12 species. Haemococcidea (Haemogregarina, Hepatozoon, Schellackia) were found in 84% of snakes (Python regius, Corallus caninus), 20% of lizards (Acanthocercus atricollis, Agama agama, Kinyongia fischeri, Gekko gecko) and 50% of turtles (Pelusios castaneus). Infections with Hematozoea (Plasmodium, Sauroplasma) were detected in 14% of lizards (Acanthocercus atricollis, Agama agama, Agama mwanzae, K. fischeri, Furcifer pardalis, Xenagama batillifera, Acanthosaura capra, Physignathus cocincinus), while those with Kinetoplastea (Trypanosoma) were found in 9% of snakes (Python regius, Corallus caninus) and 25 % of lizards (K. fischeri, Acanthosaura capra, G. gecko). Nematoda including filarial larvae parasitized in 10% of lizards (Agama agama, Agama mwanzae, K. fischeri, Fu. pardalis, Physignathus cocincinus). Light microscopy mostly allowed diagnosis of the parasites' genus, while species identification was not possible because of limited morphological characteristics available for parasitic developmental stages. The investigation revealed a high percentage of imported reptiles being carriers of parasites while possible vectors and pathogenicity are largely unknown so far. The spreading of haemoparasites thus represents an incalculable risk for pet reptiles, native herpetofauna and even human beings.

Metarhizium viride has been associated with fatal systemic mycoses in chameleons, but subsequent data on mycoses caused by this fungus in reptiles are lacking. The aim of this investigation was therefore to obtain information on the presence of M. viride in reptiles kept as pets in captivity and its association with clinical signs and pathological findings as well as improvement of diagnostic procedures. Beside 18S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) (small subunit [SSU]) and internal transcribed spacer region 1 (ITS-1), a fragment of the large subunit (LSU) of 28S rDNA, including domain 1 (D1) and D2, was sequenced for the identification of the fungus and phylogenetic analysis. Cultural isolation and histopathological examinations as well as the pattern of antifungal drug resistance, determined by using agar diffusion testing, were additionally used for comparison of the isolates. In total, 20 isolates from eight inland bearded dragons ( Pogona vitticeps ), six veiled chameleons ( Chamaeleo calyptratus ), and six panther chameleons ( Furcifer pardalis ) were examined. Most of the lizards suffered from fungal glossitis, stomatitis, and pharyngitis or died due to visceral mycosis. Treatment with different antifungal drugs according to resistance patterns in all three different lizard species was unsuccessful. Sequence analysis resulted in four different genotypes of M. viride based on differences in the LSU fragment, whereas the SSU and ITS-1 were identical in all isolates. Sequence analysis of the SSU fragment revealed the first presentation of a valid large fragment of the SSU of M. viride . According to statistical analysis, genotypes did not correlate with differences in pathogenicity, antifungal susceptibility, or species specificity.

A 3-yr-old male panther chameleon (Furcifer pardalis) presented with bilateral raised crusted skin lesions along the lateral body wall that were found to be carcinoma in situ and squamous cell carcinoma. Similar lesions later developed on the caudal body wall and tail. A subcutaneous implantable carboplatin bead was placed in the first squamous cell carcinoma lesion identified. Additional new lesions sampled were also found to be squamous cell carcinomas, and viral polymerase chain reaction was negative for papillomaviruses and herpesviruses. Significant skin loss would have resulted from excision of all the lesions, so treatment with only carboplatin beads was used. No adverse effects were observed. Lesions not excised that were treated with beads decreased in size. This is the first description of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and treatment with carboplatin implantable beads in a panther chameleon.

A revision of Chamaeleo caroliquarti Moody and Rocek is presented. The comparisons of the holotypic left dentary with those of specimens subsequently assigned to C. caroliquarti and of the Recent species of Chamaeleo, Furcifer and Calumma is carried out. It is shown that the type dentaries of C. caroliquarti include two different morphotypes with the absence of unique features. Within the Recent chameleons, the exact determination of the individual species merely on the basis of the dentaries is impossible. The holotypic dentary of C. caroliquarti is basically identical with that of C. calyptratus. However, the same morphology of the dentary as present in C. caroliquarti is also present in other species of different genera such as Calumma globifer and Furcifer pardalis. The paratypic dentaries of C. caroliquarti have a different morphology to the holotype and are indistinguishable from that in the Recent C. chamaeleon. On the other hand, a new species of the genus Chamaeleo, C. andrusovi, is described on the basis of isolated cranial elements, which possess clear autapomorphic features. This material comes from the Lower Miocene (Ottnangian) zone MN 4 in the Dolnice locality of the Czech Republic, and it differs from Recent and fossil chameleons in the following combination of characters: (1) its typically developed strongly pustular ornamentation and its distribution on the external surfaces of the skull roofing bones; (2) the frontoparietal suture is digitiform with a well-developed, anteriorly directed mesial spine, and (3) the parietal bone narrows posteriorly at its midlength, it is not bowed dorsally and it does not contribute posteriorly to a dorsal sagittal crest. This new material expands our knowledge of the cranial anatomy of Lower Miocene chameleons.

Amniotes possess variability in sex determining mechanisms, however, this diversity is still only partially known throughout the clade and sex determining systems still remain unknown even in such a popular and distinctive lineage as chameleons (Squamata: Acrodonta: Chamaeleonidae). Here, we present evidence for female heterogamety in this group. The Malagasy giant chameleon (Furcifer oustaleti) (chromosome number 2n = 22) possesses heteromorphic Z and W sex chromosomes with heterochromatic W. The panther chameleon (Furcifer pardalis) (2n = 22 in males, 21 in females), the second most popular chameleon species in the world pet trade, exhibits a rather rare Z1Z1Z2Z2/Z1Z2W system of multiple sex chromosomes, which most likely evolved from W-autosome fusion. Notably, its neo-W chromosome is partially heterochromatic and its female-specific genetic content has expanded into the previously autosomal region. Showing clear evidence for genotypic sex determination in the panther chameleon, we resolve the long-standing question of whether or not environmental sex determination exists in this species. Together with recent findings in other reptile lineages, our work demonstrates that female heterogamety is widespread among amniotes, adding another important piece to the mosaic of knowledge on sex determination in amniotes needed to understand the evolution of this important trait.

The morphometry, age structure, and abundance of the panther chameleon Furcifer pardalis (Cuvier 1829) were studied at Nosy Be (NW Madagascar). Males were larger and heavier than females (SVL, 138.38 ± 35.94 vs 91.92 ± 18.48 mm; mass, 61.06 ± 39.86 vs 22.62 ± 13.17 g). The age, assessed by skeletochronology, was usually less than one year, with a maximum of 2 years. The density estimate for adult individuals was higher along roads (42.21/ha) than in agricultural habitats far from roads (17.43/ha). Compared to other species of Malagasy chameleons, F. pardalis is infrequent in pristine and close forests, while, like other Furcifer species, it is more closely associated with riverine habitats. The higher concentration of individuals in forest-like bands along roads is explained by the presence of a suitable vegetation band along roads and the similarity of this habitat to the riverine and ecotonal forests preferred by chameleons of the genus Furcifer. The life history traits, high fecundity and short life sp...

We have previously documented that chronic UVB exposure of female panther chameleons within a specified dose range is critical for hatching success of their eggs. We have also documented that the mechanism of this effect includes the enhancement of vitamin D3 production in the skin. Here we report that the mechanism for this effect includes enhancement of egg vitamin D3 content. Hatch success in this species can be predicted not only by UVB dose of the mother but by egg vitamin D levels above 65 ng/g at the beginning of incubation, although lower levels can sometimes be associated with hatch success. Vitamin D status of the mother (circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D3; calcidiol) may also be useful to predict hatching success but our sample size was too small to determine a predictive linear or threshold effect. Finally, we document that egg vitamin D3 content is steadily reduced during the prolonged 260 d incubation period, so one must assay at the beginning of incubation or state when vitamin D3 is...

Case Presentation A wild-caught male panther chameleon (Furcifer pardalis, previously known as Chamaleo pardalis) imported from Madagascar and of unknown age was presented to the Avian and Exotic Animal Clinic of Lafayette with a complaint of anorexia. The chameleon’s diet consisted primarily of crickets, which the owner occasionally would dust with calcium supplement. Although physically vigorous, the patient was thin (52 g), exhibited poor coloration (Figure 1A), and had pale oral mucous membranes. Physical examination revealed 4 multifocal, poorly defined small bulges underneath the skin (not shown). Two of the bulges were located behind the left forearm, and the other 2 were located cranial to the right rear limb. As part of the diagnostic workup, heparinized blood samples were collected and used to prepare several air-dried smears and wet preparations. Most blood smears were stained with a rapid Romanowsky stain (Diff-Quik, Dade Diagnostics, Aguada, Puerto Rico).The remaining blood smears were later stained with an automated Romanowsky stain (Hematek, Bayer Diagnostics, Elkhart, Ind) at the Purdue University Veterinary Clinical Pathology Laboratory (Figure 1B). Other laboratory tests (clinical chemistry, PCV, CBC) were not done because of the limited amount of blood available. (Continued on next page)

Having previously documented experimentally the need for ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation (290–315 nm) in the light environment of captive female panther chameleons (Furcifer pardalis) to ensure hatching success of their eggs, we investigated optimal UVB irradiation levels. From 1996–1998 28 hatchling female panther chameleons were raised to maturity and bred (using vitamin and mineral-fortified insect diets low in vitamin D) in nine different artificial UVB light environments. Seven of the environments included long (12 hr/day) low irradia-tion exposures ranging from 1.7 to 22 μW/cm2 UVB, with a corresponding conversion of provitamin D3 to photoproducts in in vitro models of 0.18 to 1.52% in 2 hr. Two environments included short (0.5 and 1.0 hr/day), high irradiation exposures of 55 and 49 μW/cm2 UVB, respectively, with a corres-ponding conversion of provitamin D3 to photoproducts in in vitro models of 8.3% to 14.6% in the respective 0.5- and 1.0-hr time periods. Females raised with the mid-level long/low exposures (5–15 μW/cm2 UVB; 0.52–1.32% conversion to photoproducts in in vitro models) produced viable eggs with a significantly higher percentage of hatching compared to those with the extreme (highest or lowest) long/low exposures. Those raised with the short-/high-exposure environments produced viable eggs with a generally high percentage of hatching, but success was variable. The results and techniques for light quality assessment are interpreted, with recommendations for practical application by the herpetoculturist desiring to successfully breed panther chameleons in captivity. Zoo Biol 21:525–537, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Coprological examination of 19 Madagascan chameleons of the genera Furcifer and Brookesia revealed the presence of five new coccidian species. Isospora brygooi n. sp. from Furcifer pardalis has spherical to subspherical oöcysts with a slightly pitted wall, 20.7 (17-24.5) x 19.3 (16-23) microm and broadly ellipsoidal sporocysts, 12.2 (11.5-13) x 8.1 (8-8.5) microm, with Stieda and substieda bodies. Oöcysts of Eimeria glawi n. sp. from Furcifer pardalis are cylindrical to ellipsoidal, 27.7 (26-29.5) x 18.4 (17-19) microm, with ellipsoidal sporocysts, 7.3 (6.5-8) x 5.2 (5-5.5) microm. E. vencesi n. sp. described from F. pardalis has spherical to subspherical oöcysts, 14.3 (13-15.5) x 13.0 (12-13) microm, with small granules, one to three globular polar granules and ellipsoidal sporocysts, 7.3 (6.5-8) x 5.2 (5-5.5) microm. E. worthi n. sp., described from Furcifer oustaleti has spherical oöcysts, 17.9 (17.5-19.0) x 15.0 (14.5-16.0) microm without a polar granule and ellipsoidal to cylindroidal sporocysts, 8.2 (7.0-9.5) x 5.8 (5.0-6.5) microm. Oöcysts of E. brookesiae n. sp. from Brookesia decaryi are cylindrical, 25.6 (23-27) x 15.0 (13-16) microm with ellipsoidal sporocysts, 10.1 (9-11) x 6.9 (6-7) microm. Endogenous development of E. vencesi is confined to the intestine, while that of E. glawi occurs in the gall-bladder.

An adult 175 g imported panther chameleon, Furcifer pardalis, was presented with a three month history of an open wound on the ventral, rostral mandible. Previous treatments were oral enrofloxacin, and topical application of hydrogen peroxide and an OTC antibiotic preparation. Husbandry and diet appeared adequate and the chameleon was alert with good body condition. Physical examination revealed missing teeth, firm swellings of the rostral and left hemimandibles, an open wound on the rostroventral mandible and symphyseal luxation. Empirical initial treatment included chlorhexidine rinse to the open wound, and cephelexin and metronidazole orally. Metabolic, thermal, and humidity needs were also addressed. On CBC, a large microfilaria and a monocytosis were identified. Radiographically, proliferative lesions were noted in both hemimandibles. Histologic evaluation of bone biopsy yielded numerous branching septate hyphae suggestive of Aspergillus spp.. Acinetobacter spp. sensitive to amikacin and gen...

We examined caudal anatomy in two species of prehensile-tailed lizards, Furcifer pardalis and Corucia zebrata. Although both species use their tails to grasp, each relies on a strikingly different anatomy to do so. The underlying anatomies appear to reflect phylogenetic constraints on the consequent functional mechanisms. Caudal autotomy is presumably the ancestral condition for lizards and is allowed by a complex system of interdigitating muscle segments. The immediate ancestor of chameleons was nonautotomous and did not possess this specialized anatomy; consequently, the derived arrangement in the chameleon tail is unique among lizards. The limb functions as an articulated linkage system with long tendinous bands originating from longitudinal muscles to directly manipulate vertebrae. Corucia is incapable of autotomy, but it is immediately derived from autotomous ancestors. As such, it has evolved a biomechanical system for prehension quite different from that of chameleons. The caudal anatomy in Corucia is very similar to that of lizards with autotomous tails, yet distinct differences in the ancestral pattern and its relationship to the subdermal tunic are derived. Instead of the functional unit being individual autotomy segments, the interdigitating prongs of muscle have become fused with an emphasis on longitudinal stacks of muscular cones. The muscles originate from the vertebral column and a subdermal collagenous tunic and insert within the adjacent cone. However, there is remarkably little direct connection with the bones. The muscles have origins more associated with the tunic and muscular septa. Like the axial musculature of some fish, the tail of Corucia utilizes a design in which these collagenous elements serve as an integral skeletal component. This arrangement provides Corucia with an elegantly designed system capable of a remarkable variety of bending movements not evident in chameleon tails. J. Morphol. 239:143-155, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

A wild-caught specimen of panther chameleon, Furcifer pardalis, with signs of skin discoloration and mild ataxia was infected with the filarial nematode, Foleyella furcata. Monthly treatment with low doses of ivermectin was initiated and the patient treated and monitored for four months. The microfilaremia was markedly reduced after the first treatment and virtually disappeared after the second administration of the drug and the patient improved dramatically. Despite these encouraging results it's impossible, to date, to claim an adulticidal effect of this therapeutic plan. Caution should be paid on side effects caused by the death of microfilariae and supportive therapy should be warranted. Further studies are needed to fully understand the activity of ivermectin on Filaria sp., nematodes in chameleons.

To assess the importance of diet and light for indoor maintenance, hatchling panther chameleons were reared for 1 year on crickets fed diets that differed in vitamin concentrations and in different light environments. Dietary transfer of vitamins from the cricket diet to the lizards via the crickets was quantified, as was UV irradiance. There was a statistically significant dietary enhancement of growth by both vitamins on males. UV-A irradiation significantly suppressed growth of females. Low vitamin A shortened life span and resulted in a number of gross and histological pathologies. Hepatocellular lipidosis, indicating a possible toxicosis, occurred with all diets and light treatments. Higher vitamin A resulted in mild soft-tissue mineralization, and high vitamin D shortened the life span of females. Low vitamin A drastically reduced reproduction in both sexes. The intermediate levels of dietary vitamins resulted in the best production of viable eggs by females. However, without high UV-B irradiation, all viable eggs died at term and contained different vitamin levels than hatching eggs from wild-caught females. Baseline levels of egg calcium are given for hatching eggs from wild-caught females. Modifications in current husbandry procedures are recommended. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Reptiles may bask for reasons other than thermoregulation. One alternative is to regulate homeostasis of vitamin D(3), a hormone essential to the health of many reptiles. Maintenance of vitamin D(3) homeostasis requires either regulation of exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UV) or ingested vitamin D(3). However, the prey items of most vertebrates tend to be low in vitamin D(3). Thus, basking may be the primary opportunity for vitamin D(3) regulation. We tested the hypothesis that panther chameleons (Furcifer pardalis) behaviorally regulate exposure to UV in natural sunlight with high precision, accuracy, and effectiveness. Panther chameleons with low dietary vitamin D(3) intake significantly increased exposure to UV in natural sunlight compared to those with high dietary vitamin D(3) intake. All lizards fed low dietary vitamin D(3) regulated within optimal UV levels with extreme effectiveness (ability to regulate within optimal UV levels relative to available UV). Chameleons of both dietary treatments regulated UV exposure with great precision, exhibiting little variation among individuals within treatments. Our results add to a growing body of literature that empirically demonstrates the importance of basking for nonthermoregulatory purposes and, more specifically, as an integral mechanism for the regulation of a vital hormone, vitamin D(3).

Three panther chameleons, Furcifer pardalis, with multifocal raised skin lesions were evaluated. Clinical, bacteriological and histopathological investigations were performed. Histopathological findings revealed beaded filamentous organisms consistent with Dermatophilus spp. Following systemic and topical antibacterial therapy, there was full remission of clinical signs.

Whether it’s to hide from predators, to attract mates, or to frighten rivals, changing colors is more than just a neat trick for chameleons. It’s key to their survival. But just how the skin of these creatures shifts from red to gold to green and many colors in between has been something of a mystery, until now. Using electron microscopy, specialized videography, and some modeling, Michel C. Milinkovitch and coworkers at Switzerland’s University of Geneva found that panther chameleons (Furcifer pardalis), one of which is pictured here, alter their hue by tuning guanine nanocrystals within their skin (Nat. Commun. 2015, DOI: 10.1038/ncomms7368). By changing the spacing between these nanocrystals, the chameleons can alter which wavelengths of light their skin absorbs and reflects. ...

The panther chameleon is a hardy captive with potential as a model organism for laboratory research and educational exhibition. However, husbandry problems prevent hatching of eggs from captive-raised females. Previously we have shown that ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation will prevent term-death of embryos [1], presumably by allowing production and proper regulation of vitamin D by the mothers. Panther chameleons perceive UV irradiation and may be able to adjust their exposure to compensate for low dietary intake of vitamin D3 [2]. This research was to define the optimum dose of UVB irradiation for breeding panther chameleons Furcifer pardalis kept on a low dietary level of vitamin D in captivity. We subjected chameleons to specified doses of UVB irradiation within a broad range of exposure possibilities. Results will aid future study of UV photobiology.