Onthogenetic Shift of Pattern and Inhabited Niche in Rieppeleon brevicaudatus

The longitudinally lined pattern seen in Rieppeleon brevicaudatus appears to be more prevalent in neonates and juveniles compared to adults. This could be linked to an ontogenetic niche shift, where younger individuals primarily inhabit grass-level environments, while adults gradually transition to lower bush levels.

In their early stages, juveniles benefit from finer, linear patterns that resemble blades of grass, enhancing their concealment from predators. As they grow and ascend to denser vegetation, their coloration and markings may shift to better integrate with broader leaf structures, branches, or dappled light conditions found in bush environments. This transition suggests that the initial grass-mimicking pattern serves a temporary adaptive function, evolving as individuals change microhabitats and refine their camouflage strategy.

Further observations could clarify whether environmental pressures, predator avoidance, or behavioral changes actively drive this transformation.