The Standard Fischer's Chameleon is by far one of our favorite species to keep in
captivity. This medium sized chameleon is quite common in the reptile trade and can be readily purchased from many
reptile dealers. These chameleons inhabit the Western Usambara Mountains in Tanzania. They are commonly found in
the montane rainforests where the temperatures are usually no higher than the mid 80's. Humidity is often high in
these regions as well. Males can reach adult total lengths of close to 10 inches, while females max out at around
8 inches. The prehensile tail of Fischer's chameleons is very long, and takes up a good portion of the animal's
total length.
As is the case with most chameleon species, males of B.f.multituberculatum
are generally much more colorful than the females. Males are mainly shades of green with yellow, brown, and
white patches with their most brilliant colors being shown during courtship. Females are most often a lighter
green, yellow, or brown shade with less of a pattern in the coloration. Female Fischer's chameleons will
often turn dark brown if gravid, especially when a male is nearby. Males are adorned with two large rostral
processes extending from above their mouth, while females have a much shorter version of these horns or none at all.
Captive Care
Although they are on the smaller side of the chameleon spectrum, this species
is highly active and needs plenty of room to move about. These chameleons are very solitary and are easily
stressed by another chameleon or any other types of disturbances. Therefore, it is best that individuals be
housed separately for maximum satisfaction.
A screen cage measuring 36"H x 18"W x 18"L or larger should be provided and must
be contain enough foliage for the chameleon to feel secure. The temperatures should be close to that of other
popular montane species, with daytime basking temperatures no higher than 85 degrees and the rest of the cage
should be kept in the low to mid 70's. In nature, this species is used to sufficient night time temperature
drops and can handle a dip into the mid 60's at night quite well.
Reproduction
Fischer's chameleons are not too shy about breeding in captivity and will
often do so if kept happy and healthy. Males are usually ready for courtship once they lay eyes on a female,
but this depends on the individual. The male will put on his best colors and pursue the female with the head
bobbing and twitching which is typical of most male chameleons. If she is receptive, the female will remain calm
and evenly colored, otherwise she will turn darker colors and openly express her disagreement. Copulation can
last anywhere from a few minutes to about twenty minutes.
After a successful mating, the female will increase her food intake and the eggs
will begin to develop. Gestation usually lasts from a month to a month and a half. The female Fischer's chameleon will
usually lay from 8-20 eggs per clutch. The eggs should be incubated at around 70-73 degrees. The duration of the
incubation can vary but tends to be a little longer than some species at around 9-11 months.
