Which of the following features is used by chameleons to escape predation?

Analyze the question: The question asks how chameleons avoid being eaten by predators. It is about defence or adaptation in animals.

Explain the concept: Many animals avoid predators through camouflage, also called adaptive colouration. This means the body colour or pattern blends with the surroundings, so the animal is hard to see. Chameleons are well known for changing colour to match leaves, branches, or other backgrounds.

Go through the options:

• A. Fearsome appearance: This is used by animals that scare predators, such as some frilled lizards or animals with eye spots. It is not the chameleon's main defence.
• B. Coiling tail: A chameleon's prehensile tail helps it grip branches and climb. It is for support, not escaping predators.
• C. Offensive smell: This is used by animals like skunks or stink bugs. Chameleons do not use it.
• D. Adaptive colouration: The chameleon changes its skin colour to blend with its environment, which helps it avoid detection by predators. This is correct.

Answer: D. Adaptive colouration

Exam tip: Link the animal to its best-known defence:

• Chameleon → camouflage (adaptive colouration)
• Skunk → offensive smell
• Tortoise → hard shell
• Porcupine → spines

Also note that chameleons change colour for communication and temperature regulation too, but in questions about escaping predators, camouflage is the answer.