Cameroon is home to the highest diversity of chameleons in Central Africa, with over 15 species known to date, of which six (06 species and 03 subspecies) from the genus Trioceros Swainson 1839, are endemic to the Cameroon Volcanic Line. The concerned species are the following: Trioceros montium, T. perreti, T. serratus, T. wiedersheimi, T. pfefferi, T. quadricornis quadricornis, T. quadricornis gracilior and T. quadricornis eisentrauti. Around the Cameroon Volcanic line, the rapidly growing human population relies upon natural resources; the consequent activities can often have negative impacts on the surrounding ecosystems, resulting in reduced forest and the unsustainable use of resources. In a large heterogeneous and structurally complex forest ecosystem such as the Cameroon Volcanic line, the protection of endemic chameleon cannot be achieved without a thorough understanding of their ecology and role as components of the ecosystems.
This project will help to understand:
- Chameleon feeding habits;
- Document anthropogenic influence on the ecology and distribution of endemic chameleon from the volcanic line;
- Identify and document area with threats of major importance such as: habitat degradation, fragmentation, pet trade;
- Provide recommendations for the conservation and sustainable management of natural resources and endemic species of chameleons.