Survey data 67 species of reptiles, 59 species of amphibians in South Wayanad forest

As many as 67 species of reptiles and 59 species of amphibians had been recognized within the first herpetofaunal survey that concluded just lately within the South Wayanad Forest Division.

Of these, 4 amphibians and three reptiles had been noticed for the primary time on the forest division. Of the 126 species recognized, 48 amphibians and 21 reptiles are endemic to the Western Ghats.

Wayanad Shieldtail Snake
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

More than 100 volunteers from establishments throughout the State and almost 70 frontline forest workers took half within the survey, which envisaged drafting new methods to preserve small animals like amphibians and reptiles.

Sandeep Das, National Post-Doctoral Fellow, Department of Zoology, University of Calicut; Okay.P. Rajkumar, Wildlife Biologist, Shola National Park; and Nitin Divakar Research Scholar, Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi, led the survey.

Species discovered

The necessary amphibian species recorded in the course of the survey embody Starry Night Frog, bearing a constellation of blue dots on its obsidian physique; Miniature Night Frog, the tiniest frog within the nation; and endangered species reminiscent of Malabar Torrent Toad and Red Stream Toad.

The Naked Dancing Frog, beforehand related solely with areas within the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, was additionally sighted in the course of the survey. The survey commenced with the recording of the Green Tree Frog and culminated with a compendium of 59 amphibians, of which over 80% are uniquely discovered within the Western Ghats. Of the 67 reptile species sighted, 21 are distinctive to the Western Ghats, says Dr. Das.

Species just like the Wayanad Dravidogecko, Nilgiri Spiny Lizard, and the Nilgiri Forest Lizard added depth to the survey’s significance. The presence of Shieldtail snake, predominantly from Wayanad, introduced forth the area’s essential function in world conservation discussions, Dr. Rajkumar stated.

‘Protect treasure troves’

Dr. Das emphasised the urgent want for research on these amphibian and reptilian species that are largely uncared for. He advocated a broader outreach, addressing myths and fears, to make sure that these ecological treasure troves are protected. Mr. Divakar lauded the South Wayanad Forest Division for its biodiversity, which surpassed even well-known sanctuaries as a consequence of its numerous habitats.

The five-day programme was organised collectively by the Forest division, South Wayanad Forest Development Agency, and Aranyakam Nature Foundation. Wildlife photographer Dhritiman Mukherjee dealt with a session on nature pictures and its pivotal function in conservation. South Wayanad divisional forest officer A. Sajna coordinated the programme.