JOURNAL ARTICLE

The twisted secret behind a chameleon's oddball eyes: Coiled nerves allow the reptiles to move their peepers in multiple directions at once without moving their heads.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2025. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Tamisiea, Jack 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on the unique eye structure of chameleons, which allows them to have a nearly 360° field of vision by moving their eyes independently. Recent CT scans reveal that the long nerves connecting a chameleon's bulging eyes to its brain are coiled, providing the flexibility needed for this eye movement. This adaptation enables chameleons, such as the veiled chameleon (Chamaeleo calyptratus), to observe their surroundings without moving their heads, aiding in hunting and predator detection. The findings suggest that this trait may be common across the chameleon family. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2025/11, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Zoology
  • Publication Date:2025
  • Accession Number:189255062
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