To which family does the Anolis carolinensis belong, distinguishing it from true chameleons?
Answer
Dactyloidae
The green anole, *Anolis carolinensis*, is classified within the Dactyloidae family. Although the common nickname 'American Chameleon' points toward a shared trait—the ability to change color—anoles are evolutionarily distinct from true chameleons. This classification highlights that while superficial characteristics might suggest a close relationship, their specific set of fascinating characteristics, physical structure, and evolutionary path place them in a separate taxonomic group.

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