Defining Characteristics

• Independent, chameleon-like eyes can move independently, giving them a unique scanning ability
• Crushing jaws adapted for eating hard-shelled prey like snails and insects
• Cryptic coloration and rough skin help them blend into foliage

Common Name: Cuban False Chameleon

Scientific Name: Anolis barbatus

Recommended Enclosure Size & Setup: This species thrives in a vertically-oriented glass enclosure with screen ventilation. The minimum enclosure size for a single adult should be an 18x18x24 terrarium, and a pair or trio would do well in a 24x24x36. Josh's Frogs Tropical BioBedding is a great bioactive substrate option that will support a clean-up crew (springtails & isopods), topped with leaf litter.

They'll benefit from lots of sturdy branches for climbing, cork bark, vines, and live or artificial plants. Live plants are beneficial to air quality and do well in bioactive setups. An automated misting system will ensure the high humidity needs of this species are maintained, but be sure that there is always moderate airflow to avoid stagnant conditions.

• UVB lighting (Ferguson Zone 2–3, e.g., Arcadia 6%)

Temperature (°F): During the daytime, ambient temps should range from 75–82°F. A basking area providing temps from 85–90°F should be provided. Nighttime temperatures should drop to 65–72°F (natural night cooling is beneficial). Temperatures should be monitored by a reliable digital thermometer.

Humidity: Aim for a level of 70–85%. This can be achieved by misting 2–3 times daily or implementing an automated misting system, but be sure that there is always moderate airflow to avoid stagnant conditions. Ensure that surfaces dry out between mistings to prevent bacterial issues. Monitor humidity levels with a reliable hygrometer. 

Size: This species is stocky with a relatively large head. Adults can reach 7–9 inches (including their tail).

At the time of sale, these animals will be around 4–6 months old. They are well-started, feeding reliably, and able to handle the stress of relocation.

Feeding: These lizards are primarily insectivorous with a focus on hard-bodied prey. Staples should include crickets, roaches, snails, silkworms, and hornworms. They can be offered waxworms or mealworms occasionally as treats.

Cuban false chameleons should be fed 3–4 times per week, supplemented with calcium with D₃ twice weekly, and a multivitamin once weekly.

Sexing: Males typically have larger heads, broader jowls, and visible hemipenal bulges. Females are smaller, with a narrower head and reduced jowls. Visual sexing becomes easier around 5–6 months of age.

Color/Pattern: This species has mottled gray, brown, olive, and green tones with cryptic leaf-like patterning that helps with camouflage. They'll display subtle color changes depending on mood and environment

Social Behavior: Cuban false chameleons are generally solitary animals. Males are territorial, so housing multiple males together is not recommended.

That being said, pairs or trios can be kept in larger enclosures with enough visual barriers and careful monitoring. 

Breeding: These animals reach sexual maturity around 12–18 months. Breeding season is typically in spring and summer, when females lay single eggs every 2–3 weeks. The incubation period is ~60–90 days at 78–82°F.

Natural Range: As the common name would suggest, these animals are native to Cuba, especially forested highland areas. They're often found in dense foliage and shrubs, both in dry and moist forest habitats.

History in the Hobby: Cuban false chameleons are rare but gaining interest due to their unique appearance and behavior. They were previously overlooked due to their subtle coloration and relatively calm demeanor. Anolis barbatus is increasingly available from captive breeders, leading to better care, understanding, and reduced wild-caught pressure.

Links of Interest

• Anolis Barbatus Care Sheet (Reptifiles)