Diet Composition of Dwarf Chameleons Across Natural and Urban Habitats

Researchers at the University of Johannesburg investigated the prey spectrum of two dwarf chameleon species, Bradypodion damaranum and Bradypodion ventrale, in South Africa's Western and Eastern Cape provinces. The study compared individuals from natural habitats with those living in peri‑urban environments. 

Chameleons were held briefly in captivity until faecal samples could be collected. In total, 22 samples were analysed (11 per species), with six from natural habitats and five from peri‑urban sites for each species. DNA analysis of the faeces revealed a diverse diet: 41 arthropod species and one worm species (likely from a dung beetle) were identified.

The most frequent prey was the blowfly Stomorhina lunata, followed by the tree bug Glypsus conspicuus and the predatory bug Rhynocoris kumari. Both species fed primarily on beetles, dipterans, butterflies, and leafhoppers. Importantly, the study documented prey items not previously recorded for dwarf chameleons, including lacewings, thrips, and caddisflies.

Surprisingly, the overall diet composition showed little difference between natural and peri‑urban populations. Variations were observed mainly at the species level rather than the order level. Chameleons in natural habitats consumed slightly more flies and arachnids, while those in peri‑urban areas relied more on butterflies.

Significance

This study demonstrates that dwarf chameleons maintain a broad and overlapping diet across different environments, highlighting their adaptability. The findings also expand the known prey spectrum of Bradypodion species, underscoring the value of faecal DNA analysis in ecological research.

Reference: Adair, M.G., Teske, P.R., Tolley, K.A. (2026). Peri‑urban sustenance: unexpectedly broad overlap in dwarf chameleon (Bradypodion) diets between natural and transformed habitats. Urban Ecosystems 29: 92.