Calumma (parsonii) cristifer, a tale in colors

Calumma cristifer, described by Methuen & Hewitt in 1913, is one of two recognized subspecies of the Parson's chameleon. New DNA analzses and their fragmented distribution on different massifs and mid- to high-elevation forestsin easterna nd northern Madagascar show not only, that C. cristifer is a separate species, but that the individual populations may represent undescribed taxa. The name cristifer refers to the dorsal crest that distinguishes it from C. p. parsonii. This subspecies is restricted to humid rainforest in Madagascar's eastern highlands, with strong populations around Andasibe, Analamazaotra, and the community reserve V.O.I.M.M.A.

It is a large chameleon, with males reaching over 40 cm total length and females somewhat smaller. The casque is high, the body massive, and the tail thick. Coloration is typically green to turquoise, females are less vividly colored but display yellow markings when gravid.

Behaviorally, C. p. cristifer is slow-moving and long-lived, with a reproductive cycle that can span two years. It inhabits primary rainforest but tolerates secondary growth at forest margins. Despite its size and visibility, it remains Near Threatened due to ongoing deforestation and habitat fragmentation in Madagascar's eastern corridor.