Documenting synonymies in Trioceros ituriensis (Schmidt, 1929) with remarks on sexual dimorphism in chameleons (Squamata: Chamaeleonidae)

Abstract

The synonymization of three nominal chameleonid species-group taxa with Trioceros ituriensis (Schmidt, 1919) is critically discussed by comparing original texts and figures with the respective type specimens. The first case seems clear since homonymy is involved but in the other two cases, despite recent allocations, the identity of the two nominal species is not unambiguously clear. Morphological differences cast some doubt on the currently accepted synonymy. One diagnostic character of T. ituriensis, the hornlessness and smaller size of the males as compared to the females is discussed in respect to other chameleons with a respective sexual dimorphism in contrast to their closest relatives.