Brookesia nana

With a body length of only 13mm (0.5 in), it is the smallest reptile on earth

This smallest reptile can be found in Madagascar. The so-called “island effect,” which shrinks species on small islands, may be one explanation for these tiny species. But only the Brookesia nana, often known as the nano-chameleon, can get any smaller. It is so small that it could easily fit on one of your fingernails.

This little reptile has a projectile tongue like other chameleons, which it employs to catch prey. Sadly, deforestation is severely threatening Brookesia nana’s habitat, although the region has lately been classified as a protected area, which may be of assistance.

Distribution

Country
Population est.
Status
Year
Comments
Madagascar
2
2021

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Terrestrial / Aquatic

Altricial / Precocial

Polygamous / Monogamous

Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic

Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal

Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd

Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore

Migratory: Yes / No

Domesticated: Yes / No

Dangerous: Yes / No