The Science
Chameleons in many ways are unique. They have characteristic zygomorphic digits and eyes that can swivel around in different directions to each other. They have a slow eery movement and the ability to quickly change colour.
There are over 170 recognised species of chameleon, adapted to diverse conditions that span the African continent, the Arabic and Indian subcontinents and Southern Europe. Chameleons can be found in many shapes and sizes, as well as in many colours. Not all chameleons can change colour and the extent to which they do, as well as the reasons they do, also vary according to the species. Although for some chameleons colour-changes have a role in camouflage, others change colour according to their mood or to regulate their body temperature.
So, just like people, the colours chameleons wear are diverse. The reasons they sport particular colours and the occasion for which they change them differs, but they can be a reflection of who they are, how they live, or how they feel.
The Artist
Xaali O’Reilly Berkeley is a biologist currently doing a PhD in Ecological Genetics, at the Manchester Metropolitan University, UK. She is not herself a professional illustrator, but enjoys how scientific illustration brings together the artistic world she grew up in, and the natural world she studies. Her photography and occasional artwork can be found on Instagram @xaalisachawawa, and more information about her work can be found at www.tambarikosy.com.
Copyright statement. This work is published under the CC BY-NC-SA license