Buzzing with Intent: How Veiled Chameleons Use Biotremors to Communicate

In two complementary studies, Denny et al. (2023) explore the fascinating phenomenon of biotremors—substrate-borne vibrations—in Veiled Chameleons (Chamaeleo calyptratus). These vibrations, often likened to a phone buzzing, are not random quirks but purposeful signals tied to environmental stimuli and social interaction.

In the first study, researchers exposed 15 chameleons to controlled vibrations ranging from 25 to 600 Hz. Adults consistently "froze" in response to 50 and 150 Hz, while juveniles reacted to 50 and 300 Hz. All adults produced detectable biotremors, categorized as "hoots" (7.5 dB) and "mini-hoots" (-32.5 dB), with lower frequencies linked to longer durations.

The second study placed chameleons in paired trials separated by plexiglass. Adult Veiled Chameleons emitted biotremors in 85% of interactions, especially during visual contact and aggressive displays. A third vibration type—"rumbles"—was identified, expanding the known repertoire of chameleon vibrational communication.

These findings reveal that Veiled Chameleons use biotremors not only to respond to environmental cues but also to navigate complex social dynamics.

Citations: Denny, K.L., Huskey, S., Anderson, C.V., & Smith, M.E. (2023). Communication via biotremors in the Veiled Chameleon (Chamaeleo calyptratus): Part I – Biotremor production and response to substrate-borne vibrations. Integrative and Comparative Biology. https://doi.org/10.1093/icb/icad085 Denny, K.L., Huskey, S., Anderson, C.V., & Smith, M.E. (2023). Communication via biotremors in the Veiled Chameleon (Chamaeleo calyptratus): Part II – Social contexts. Integrative and Comparative Biology. https://doi.org/10.1093/icb/icad084