Reptoria

Malthe's chameleon (Calumma malthe)

Malthe's chameleon (Calumma malthe), typical appearance of the species

Chameleons · Difficulty: Expert

Key facts and care guidance for Malthe's chameleon (Calumma malthe) (origin: Eastern and north-eastern Madagascar, humid montane rainforest ~900–1,250 m (Andasibe, Marojejy)). Adult size around males approx. 31 cm, females approx. 28 cm total length. Life expectancy approx. 4–6 years (captive data uncertain). The values below are carefully researched guidance.

Short answers

Malthe's chameleon: How big does the enclosure need to be?

80×60×120 cm for one adult animal (very densely planted).

Malthe's chameleon: What temperature does it need?

Daytime 20–24 °C (monthly means ~19–27 °C), basking spot 26–28 °C (moderate), at night 15–20 °C (dry season down to 10–15 °C).

Malthe's chameleon: Does it need UVB lighting?

UVB: UVB needed (Ferguson zone 2–3, UV index 3; a forest dweller, middling figures).

Malthe's chameleon: How long do they live?

Life expectancy: approx. 4–6 years (captive data uncertain).

Malthe's chameleon: Is it suitable for beginners?

No – better suited to experienced keepers (difficulty: Expert).

Climate

Daytime temperature
20–24 °C (monthly means ~19–27 °C)
Night temperature
15–20 °C (dry season down to 10–15 °C)
Basking spot
26–28 °C (moderate)
Humidity
80–90 % (high all year round, close to 100 % at night)
UVB
UVB needed (Ferguson zone 2–3, UV index 3; a forest dweller, middling figures)

Enclosure

Minimum size
80×60×120 cm for one adult animal (very densely planted)
Substrate
Rainforest substrate (humus, leaf litter, moss), epiphytes, ferns, lianas, fine and sturdy branches; good ventilation

Feeding

Food
Insects: crickets, locusts, roaches, flying insects; dusted with calcium and vitamins
Feeding interval
adults 2–3×/week, juveniles daily

Key facts

Adult size
males approx. 31 cm, females approx. 28 cm total length
Life expectancy
approx. 4–6 years (captive data uncertain)
Origin
Eastern and north-eastern Madagascar, humid montane rainforest ~900–1,250 m (Andasibe, Marojejy)
Protection status
CITES Appendix II / EU Regulation Annex B – specially protected: proof of origin plus registration required; IUCN "Least Concern", but under habitat pressure
Brumation
No brumation; a cooler, drier winter spell (nights 10–15 °C, less misting) is recommended
Cohabitation
Keep them singly. Territorial and solitary; put them together only briefly and under supervision for breeding. NEVER keep males together

Notes

It inhabits very dense, humid montane forests near streams. It needs high humidity and cool nights. Often confused with similar Calumma. Lifespan and terrarium size are derived from its habitat (uncertain).

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Related species

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What you need to start

To keep Malthe's chameleon (Calumma malthe) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (80×60×120 cm for one adult animal (very densely planted)), substrate (Rainforest substrate (humus, leaf litter, moss), epiphytes, ferns, lianas, fine and sturdy branches; good ventilation), a heat source with a thermostat, UVB lighting, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.

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Last updated: 9 October 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calumma_malthe, https://www.madcham.de/en/calumma-malthe/

All values are non-binding guidance and do not replace expert advice. Research thoroughly from several sources before acquiring and keeping an animal, and observe the applicable law (species and animal protection in particular).