KELSO, Erin*; MARTINS, Emilia; Indiana University; Indiana University: The evolution of color pattern morphology within the true chameleons

The true chameleons (family Chamaeleonidae) are recognized for their unique adaptations, including the ability to undergo rapid color changes that facilitate social communication. Very little research, however, has addressed the evolution of color pattern morphology or their use in communication. As a first step, we scored published photos for presence or absence of color pattern elements and morphological traits that may be important in signaling. We identified color patterns based on their similarity of appearance, including position on the body, and classified them based on their distribution within the genus. We find that very few clades (3) can be identified by unique color pattern or morphological traits. Instead, the majority of clades may be identified by a specific combination of traits. These results suggest that the majority of color pattern elements evolved before the Madagascar and mainland African genera separated.