Mist and Miniatures: The Forest Life of Calumma gastrotaenia

Calumma gastrotaenia is a medium‑sized chameleon endemic to Madagascar, belonging to the forest‑dwelling genus Calumma. It is characterized by its slender body, cryptic coloration, and subtle ornamentation, making it well adapted to life in dense vegetation og the forest undergrowth. The species inhabits humid montane rainforest ecosystems of the eastern highlands, where mist and constant moisture define its biotope. According to conservation assessments, it is considered vulnerable due to ongoing habitat loss and fragmentation, particularly in areas of heavy human activity.

Hatchlings of C. gastrotaenia typically appear at the end of January. They are extremely small, delicate, and perfectly suited to the microhabitats of the forest floor and understory. This timing coincides with the rainy season, when conditions are optimal for survival.

Importantly, C. gastrotaenia is a true forest species, restricted to moist and foggy rainforest environments. It does not adapt well to degraded or open habitats, which explains its decline in the Andasibe/Perinet region where forest disturbance has been significant. Nevertheless, populations remain abundant in more intact reserves such as Maromizaha Forest and Mandraka, where the species continues to thrive.

The contrasting trends between declining and stable populations highlight the urgent need to preserve Madagascar's rainforest corridors, as Calumma gastrotaenia depends entirely on these fragile ecosystems for its survival.

Babies of C. gastrotaenia from Maromizaha Forest, hatched in January