A New Contribution to the Chameleon Diversity of the Nguru Mountains

The Nguru Mountains in Tanzania, known for their rich biodiversity, continue to astonish researchers with new discoveries. Recently, Joseph Mboya's expedition to this mountainous region highlighted a previously unidentified population of chameleons from the genus Rhampholeon. This genus is renowned for its unique morphological features, like central spikes on the crenulated crest and three high peeks on the supraorbital crest, and has already produced intriguing findings with the recent descriptions of 

• Rhampholeon acuminatus,
• Rhampholeon waynelotteri,
• Rhampholeon princeps

The possibility of the newly observed Rhampholeon population leads to several hypotheses regarding its identity:

• Aberrant Rhampholeon acuminatus: This proposition suggests that the observed chameleons might be a variant of R. acuminatus. However, this theory appears improbable given the distinct characteristics noted and have been already excluded, when additional photo material was presented.

• Accentuated Rhampholeon waynelotteri: While this hypothesis considers the possibility of the new population being a variation of R. waynelotteri, specialists have found inconsistencies with the established descriptions of this species, rendering this theory less viable. None of the previously known specimens shows central spikes on the crenulated crest and three high peeks on the supraorbital crest.

• Hybrid of Rhampholeon acuminatus and Rhampholeon waynelotteri: While this scenario could explain certain traits, the discovery of multiple individuals makes hybridization less likely, although it cannot be entirely dismissed.

• New species: This hypothesis presents the most compelling possibility, suggesting that the newly found population could represent an entirely new species. This would be an exciting addition to the biodiversity of the Nguru Mountains and underscores the importance of ongoing research in this biodiversity hotspot.

Overall, the situation remains unresolved, as specialists ponder the identity of this enigmatic Rhampholeon population. Continued exploration and study in the Nguru Mountains are essential for uncovering more about its unique biodiversity and the ecological significance of these remarkable reptiles.