Discovered: The mini-meleon that is one of the smallest reptiles on the planet
+ a n! R, Q* a公仔箱論壇By Wil Longbottom; ], k4 A# c. e
" t+ [& C$ Y' Z7 p7 JHis species is renowned for its ability to blend in, but this tiny critter is even better than most as the world's smallest chameleon.+ r& n8 a+ M3 l6 o0 N3 ^
Balanced on the tip of a scientist's fingernail in Madagascar, the-three centimetre reptile is no bigger than the flies that form his average-sized cousin's lunch.
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Scientists discovered four new species - called Brookesia micra - on a small islet just off the main island.
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Tiny: This chameleon is smaller than a finger nail and was discovered on an islet off Madagascar
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This particular chameleon is now thought to be one of the smallest reptiles on the planet.tvb now,tvbnow,bttvb" B" T$ F/ z/ E. L7 x# k
Ted Townsend, of San Diego State University, carried out genetic testing on the new species.
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He said: 'Their size suggests that chameleons might have evolved in Madagascar from small and inconspicuous ancestors, quite unlike the larger and more colourful chameleons most familiar to us today.') d T) c* c' G, Q3 `& q4 r
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! l* A1 ]+ E9 i( ]公仔箱論壇A real match: The three-centimetre chameleon is thought to be one of the smallest reptiles on the planettvb now,tvbnow,bttvb }/ D: i+ v; L" P" S
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& p3 q! ?* O* e& J9 jHard to spot: Scientists believe chameleons may have evolved on Madagascar
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# R. X4 s2 F9 r9 I- k+ _8 ~( f公仔箱論壇The new additions to the chameleon species are only found in an area just a few square miles in size.
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Experts believe they may be especially sensitive to habitat destruction. |