Basic Info on Calumma malthe

Full Scientific Name: Calumma malthe (Günther, 1879)

Author of the Description: Albert Günther

Etymology of the Name: Günther did unfortunately not explain the origin of the name, however it is probable, it was derived from the word μάλθη (malthē), which means wax or ointment. In classical usage, malthē referred to a soft, pliable substance like wax or a medicinal salve, possibly chosen for the smooth, wax‑like appearance of the animal's skin or coloration.

Range: This species is endemic to Madagascar, with distribution restricted to the eastern and northeastern regions. Its occurrence is fragmented into three isolated pockets.

• Southern population

• Central–eastern population

• Northern population

These pockets are separated by deforestation and habitat degradation. The degree of isolation suggests that these populations may represent distinct taxa at subspecific or even specific level, though this requires further taxonomic study.

Biotope: A typical forest species, Calumma malthe inhabits humid evergreen forests and mountain cloud forests. It is strongly associated with intact forest interiors and dense vegetation, rarely occurring outside undisturbed habitats.

Climate: The species thrives in the humid tropical climate of eastern Madagascar, characterized by high rainfall, persistent moisture, and relatively stable cold temperatures. Cloud forest conditions provide the microclimate essential for its survival.

Natural History

Medium-sized chameleon with distinctive green ear patches.

Arboreal, relying on camouflage and slow, deliberate movements to avoid predation.

Oviparous, though detailed reproductive biology remains poorly documented.

Exhibits subtle sexual dimorphism. Males possess significant hemipeneal pockets, a long rostral false horn and green occipital flaps, while the forstbywomfeatires lack in females and rhe occipital flaps are colored same as rhe rest of the head or blue. 

Strongly tied to forest microhabitats, where it feeds on small invertebrates.

Conservation status currently listed as Least Concern, but ongoing deforestation threatens population connectivity and long-term viability.

Most Valid Sources of Information

• The Reptile Database

• IUCN Red Data Book

• Chameleons.info

• iNaturalist

• Glaw & Vences, A Field Guide to the Amphibians and Reptiles of Madagascar (3rd edition)
• Madcham.de 

A new FaceBook Group dedicated to Calumma malthe

Our purpose is to unite herpetologists, keepers, and breeders in building a comprehensive knowledge base dedicated to the protection, ethical management, and long‑term survival of Calumma malthe.

Mission

To unite herpetologists, keepers, and breeders in creating a rigorous, shared foundation of knowledge on the natural history and captive care of Calumma malthe.

We commit to:

• Establishing ethical standards of husbandry and breeding.

• Preventing cruelty caused by ignorance or misinformation.

• Correcting harmful practices that expose this fragile species to unnatural conditions.

• Promoting collaboration and transparency among all stakeholders.

Guiding Principles

These values anchor our work and define our collective responsibility:

• Scientific Rigor — Every claim and practice must be grounded in verifiable evidence and natural history.

• Ethical Stewardship — The welfare of Calumma malthe is paramount; captivity must serve protection, not exploitation.

• Transparency — Open sharing of methods, successes, and failures to build collective wisdom.

• Collaboration — Bridging herpetologists, keepers, and breeders into one unified knowledge community.

• Education — Preventing cruelty by correcting ignorance and exposing harmful practices.

• Legacy — Ensuring that future generations inherit both the species and the knowledge to protect it.

apply for membership here: