Chameleons are exotic lizards known for their ability to change color and blend into their surroundings. They have become popular pets due to their unique appearance and behaviors. While chameleons naturally come in an array of colors, vibrant shades like purple are not commonly seen in the wild. This has led many to wonder – are purple chameleons real or just a myth? In this article, we’ll explore whether naturally purple chameleons exist, look at reasons for color variations, and discuss if captive breeding has created truly purple chameleons.
Natural Chameleon Color Variations
Chameleons have specialized pigment cells called chromatophores that allow them to change their skin color. By altering the space between chromatophores, chameleons can quickly shift between colors to camouflage themselves. The most common chameleon species found in the pet trade come in colors like green, brown, yellow, and turquoise. However, some naturally exhibit more unique shades.
| Species | Natural Color Variations |
|---|---|
| Panther Chameleon | Greens, yellows, blues, oranges, pinks |
| Jackson’s Chameleon | Greens, yellows, blues, turquoise |
| Veiled Chameleon | Greens, yellows, blues, turquoise |
| Carpet Chameleon | Greens, yellows, reds, oranges |
As seen above, while many chameleons display green, yellow, and blue hues, some species like the panther chameleon exhibit a wider rainbow of colors including pinks and oranges. Intense reds and oranges can give some panther chameleons a purple appearance. However, most experts agree truly deep purple coloration does not occur naturally in the wild.
Causes of Unnatural Color Morphs
So where does the myth of purple chameleons come from? There are a few factors that can cause chameleons to display unnatural color variations in captivity:
Lighting Conditions
Chameleons are sensitive to lighting conditions. Unnatural lighting can prevent them from showing their true colors. Purple lighting, for example, can make some chameleons appear more purple than they really are.
Temperature
Chameleons are ectothermic and rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. If the temperature is too cool, darker pigments like purples and blacks can become more prominent.
Stress Color
Stressed chameleons will often exhibit darker black or purple shades. While this stress response helps them blend into shadows, it is not representative of their natural relaxed coloration.
Diet
Nutrition impacts chameleon coloration. Diets deficient in certain nutrients can lead to duller, darker shades. Providing a varied diet rich in vitamins and minerals allows chameleons to display their brightest, truest colors.
Selective Breeding for Color Morphs
So while naturally purple chameleons are likely a myth, captive breeding has produced truly purple chameleons through selective breeding. Breeders isolate and intensify rare color mutations to create vibrant morphs. Some purple chameleon morphs include:
Purple Panthers
Purple panther chameleons have been bred from rare blue panther color mutations. By breeding two blue panthers over multiple generations, a vibrant royal purple can result.
Purple Pearls
These are a peach/white panther morph bred to enhance pinks and purples. They exhibit a light purple and white marbled pattern.
Amethyst Veileds
Amethyst veileds are bred from blue veiled chameleons. Continued breeding of rare blue offspring accentuates purples.
Violet Carpets
Violet carpets are a cross between a purple panther and a carpet chameleon. They display vivid purple and black markings.
| Morph | Origin | Color Description |
|---|---|---|
| Purple Panthers | Blue panther mutation | Deep royal purple |
| Purple Pearls | Peach panther mutation | Light purple and white marbling |
| Amethyst Veileds | Blue veiled mutation | Rich purple hues |
| Violet Carpets | Purple panther x carpet chameleon | Purple and black markings |
As seen, selective breeding has succeeded in creating chameleons with vivid purple coloration. These morphs are often more delicate and require expert care.
Potential Issues with Color Morphs
While vibrant colors are prized in the pet trade, some issues can come with unnaturally bred color morphs:
– Increased health problems – Unique morphs are often less hardy
– Higher costs – Rarer morphs can cost hundreds more
– Shorter lifespans – Extremes in color often indicate inbreeding
– Color instability – Colors may fade or change unexpectedly
For these reasons, many chameleon enthusiasts advocate adopting naturally-occurring color variations instead of specialized morphs. This promotes hardier, healthier pets.
Conclusion
In summary, while naturally purple chameleons are likely a myth, selective captive breeding has created true purple chameleon morphs. However, these unnatural colors come from genetic mutations and extensive inbreeding. This can result in weakened health and other issues. For the most robust chameleon pet, opt for naturally occurring color varieties fed a balanced diet and given proper lighting and heat. This will allow their true colors to shine through without artificial enhancements. While purple chameleons may not exist in the wild, a naturally vibrant panther or carpet chameleon can be just as awe-inspiring.
Summary
– Naturally purple chameleons are not found in the wild – most display greens, yellows, blues and oranges
– Unnatural captive conditions like lighting, temperature and stress can make chameleons appear more purple
– Selective inbreeding has produced true purple morphs like purple panthers, purple pearls, amethyst veileds and violet carpets
– Color morphs often have weaker health and shorter lifespans than naturally colored chameleons
– For the healthiest and most vibrant chameleon, choose natural color varieties and provide optimal care
