Herpetofauna from the middle valley of the Ranchería river, La Guajira, Colombia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18636/bioneotropical.v3i2.150Keywords:
Amphibians, Mining, Tropical dry forest, Reptiles.Abstract
Objective: We characterize and elaborate the inventory of the herpetofauna of the middle valley of the Ranchería river for subsequent monitoring for conservation. Methodology: Four surveys in eight localities were done in the grounds of Carbones del Cerrejón Ltd during the rainy and dry seasons, the areas included tropical dry forest and subxerophitic formations. The surveys were made following different techniques: visual encounter survey, drift fences with pitfall traps and leaf litter plots. Results: Sixty-two species were identified, which include 18 of amphibians (Anura) and 44 of reptiles (21 snakes, 19 lizards, one crocodilian and two turtles). The highest diversity was found in forested areas and in areas with agricultural activities and cattle production; on the other hand, where the forest has been cleared due to the mining activity, the diversity is lower. Conclusion: This richness represents about 55% of the species reported for the lowlands of the Colombian Caribbean, which gives this area an important value for the conservation of species of tropical dry forest, considering as the most threatened ecosystem in Colombia.
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