HERPETOTROPICOS

2012-01-31T23:19:00.000-04:30

A NEW LIZARD SPECIES FROM PERU

A new lizard species of the genus Potamites has been described from the montane forests of the Cordillera de Vilcabamba (Cusco region) and Apurimac River valley (Ayacucho region), between 1500 and 2000 meters of elevation, in southern Peru.

Scientific description: http://www.pensoft.net/journals/zookeys/article/2048/abstract/a-new-species-of-andean-semiaquatic-lizard-of-the-genus-potamites-sauria-gymnophtalmidae-from-southern-peru

THE WORLD'S SMALLEST VERTEBRATE IS A TROPICAL FROG

2012-01-12T20:32:00.001-04:30

Two new species of diminutive terrestrial frogs were recently discovered from the megadiverse hotspot island of New Guinea. One of them, Paedophryne amauensis, represents the smallest known vertebrate species, attaining an average body size of only 7.7 mm.

The genus Paedophryne, also recently described, has four species which are among the ten smallest vertebrates, rendering it the most diminutive genus of amphibian anurans. Minute frogs, in general, seem not to be just

mere oddities, but represent a previously unrecognized ecological guild.

Read full article in: PLoS ONE 7(1): e29797.

CROCODYLES IN THE SAHARA DESERT

2011-05-14T10:46:00.000-04:30

Crocodylus niloticus has experienced local extinctions throughout the Sahara desert, because of increasing aridity and human intervention. However, relict populations still persist in Chad, Egypt and Mauritania. A new study evaluates the status of the Saharan crocodiles and provides new data for Mauritania to assist conservation planning.

TOP 100 EVOLUTIONARY DISTINCT AND GLOBALLY ENDANGERED AMPHIBIANS

2011-05-09T17:59:00.000-04:30

Know HERE100 extraordinary amphibians threatened with
extinction!

A NEW SPECIES OF BLIND AND LIMBLESS LIZARD FROM CAMBODIA

2011-05-09T17:46:00.000-04:30

The Dalai Mountain blind lizard (Dibamus dalaiensis) is a new species to science, coming from the biodiversity hotpot named the Cardamom mountains, in Cambodia. It it the first of its genus and family to be found in this country. These lizards are blind and without extremities to walk, and have fossorial (live underground) habits. Find more in: cambodian-scientist-discovers-new-species-of-blind-and-legless-lizard/

ATELOPUS BALIOS REDISCOVERED

2011-05-08T20:04:00.000-04:30

Conservation International says: "Atelopus balios
Last seen 1995. Rediscovered after 15 years in Ecuador by Eduardo Toral-Contreras and Elicio Tapia. Researchers feared that the deadly amphibian Chytrid fungus had wiped out this species along with many other closely related species in Ecuador. This find is significant and very encouraging, offering an opportunity to protect this attractive and rare species".

Check web site in English. Lea más en Español.

GIANT VARANUS, ANOTHER 2010 DISCOVERY FROM SOUTHEAST ASIA

2011-05-01T16:28:00.000-04:30

A large (2 m long) lizard, cousin of the komodo dragon inhabiting an island in the Philippines, Varanus bitatawa, made a stunning discovery adding to the 2010 International Year of Biodiversity. It is a secretive, frugivorous, forest monitor lizard from a forest in northern Philippines. Data from DNA, and morphology, demonstrated its taxonomic distinctiveness and revealed its close relationship to Varanus olivaceus (from southern Luzon and nearby islands). The new species appears to be restricted to forests of the central and northern Sierra Madre mountain range. Its discovery identified a seldom-perceived biogeographic boundary and emphasized the need for continued biodiversity research in the megadiverse conservation hotspot of the Philippines.

ANOTHER NEW SPECIES DISCOVERED DURING THE INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF BIODIVERSITY (2010) WAS VIETNAMESE, TOO

2011-05-01T15:55:00.000-04:30

It is a lizard named Leiolepis ngovantrii, with populations made up of only female individuals (thus parthenogenetic, asexual), found in Binh Chau – Phuoc Buu Nature Reserve, Xuyen Moc district, BaRia-Vung Tau Province, Vietnam. It was long time unnoticed to science in spite of inhabiting a heavily populated area and being eaten in local restaurants. Its pattern of coloration provides camouflage in the coastal sandy places they inhabit, as well as under mangrove forests during the dry season.

The Vampire Tree Frog

2011-04-30T19:32:00.000-04:30

The Vampire Tree Frog (Rhacophorus vampyrus) lives in the Bidoup-Nui Ba National Park, in Vietnam. Its common name was coined after the tadpoles, which have a pair of hooks on the lower lips which project away from the mouth. Scientists speculate that these fang-like projections may be used for hunting or to feed onto unfertilised eggs provided as extra food source to the larvae. The original description provides more info on this rare foam-nest species.

RADIATED TORTOISE DRIVEN TO EXTINCTION

2011-04-29T22:39:00.000-04:30

The Radiated Tortoise (Astrochelys radiata), one of the most culturally significant and iconic species in Madagascar, is being driven to extinction. Among the reasons are that this is becoming a more common source of food for local people and a highly prized commodity for poachers. Unsustainable harvesting, collection for the illegal pet trade, and habitat loss are among the major treats that threatens the survival of this species.

Source:

insatiable-appetites-drive-madagascar’s-tortoises-to-extinction/

THE ANTIGUAN RACER (Alsophis antiguae) IS BACK

2011-04-29T17:11:00.000-04:30

Only 50 individuals of the Antiguan racer remained in the wild by 1995, when is was dubbed “the world’s rarest snake”. Through the efforts of Fauna & Flora International, this colubrid is back to Antigua and adjacent islands, counting to some 500 individuals at present.

Read the complete story.

A FLYING RESCUE MISSION FOR SIAMESE CROCODILES

2011-04-29T16:48:00.000-04:30

15 Siamese crocodiles (Crocodylus siamensis) that were caught between construction hydro dams sites in the Stung Atay river, Cambodia, were rescued from places they were at risk. The river flows through Pursat and Koh Kong Provinces in Southwest Cambodia, and has two dams whose construction began in 2008. When the hydro electric Project completes, over 4000 hectares of rainforest will be flooded.

Read the complete story at the Fauna & Flora International site.

NEW GENUS OF FROGS FROM SRI LANKA

2011-04-28T18:12:00.000-04:30

A new genus (Taruga, Family Rhacophoridae) was proposed for foam-nesting tree frogs previously assigned to Polypedates and living in Sri Lanka. All the species in the genus (T. eques, T. fastigo and T. longinasus) have restricted distributions mostly in the forested highlands of Sri Lanka.

Adults in the new genus are easily distinguished from adult Polypedates by having a very much acute head, possessing prominent cone-like projections around the cloacal opening, and a straighter supratympanic fold. Taruga tadpoles, among other diagnostic characters, have just an opening between legs and tail, without forming a tube, thus contrasting with Polypedates larvae, which have such tube.

The nameTaruga comes from Sanskrit, meaning "one who climbs trees", making allusion to the arboreal life habits in these frogs.

The original description can be downloaded from: Taruga, New Genus

More than 3100 visitors!

2010-10-28T04:58:00.000-04:30

The blog on Tropical Amphibians and Reptiles reached more than 3100 visitors. Thanks to all the followers, coming up to now from 89 countries of the World!

New institutional website for the journal Herpetotropicos

2010-10-28T04:32:00.000-04:30

A new institutional website for the journal Herpetotropicos has been created. To get access to the files, enter:

http://erevistas.saber.ula.ve/index.php/herpetotropicos/index

and click on "Archivos".

Lost Frogs Update: Landslides in the Venezuelan Andes

2010-09-26T19:59:00.000-04:30

Read one of the latest reports from field researchers participating in Conservation International's Search for the Lost Frogs Champaign.

NEW TROPICAL FROG SPECIES, AMONG THE SMALLEST IN THE WORLD

2010-08-25T13:06:00.000-04:30

The tiny frog (known adults between 10.6 and 12.8 mm; about the size of a pea) was discovered by Dr. Indraneil Das and Dr. Alexander Haas in the forests of the Matang Range, Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. the description appeared this month in the journal Zootaxa. Dr. Indraneil Das is leading a team within the Lost Frogs Campaing, of Conservation International.
The frog lives in close association with a pitcher plant (Nepenthes ampullaria) from which the species takes the name (Microhyla nepenthicola). The larvae of this frog develop inside these plants, after the frogs deposit the eggs on the sides of the pitcher.
As in similar situations around the tropics, scientists who saw specimens of this frog in the past thought they were juveniles of another species.

2600 VISITORS!

2010-08-23T17:46:00.000-04:30

Herpetotropicos has reached more than 2600 visitors from 970 cities in 87 countries. Thanks to all followers of this blog.

THE SEARCH FOR LOST AMPHIBIANS

2010-08-23T17:34:00.000-04:30

Conservation International is supporting expeditions to search some amphibian species that haven’t been seen for more than a decade. Scientists are optimistic about the prospect of at least one rediscovery during this campaing.

The search is taking place in 18 countries accross Latin America, Africa and Asia, and it is

the first ever coordinated effort to find such a large number of "lost"

frogs. There is a list of the "top 10" species of the 100 being searched believed to be particularly exciting to find. The top 10 are: the golden toad (Incilius periglenes), the gastric broofing frog (Rhebatrachus vitellinus), the Mesopotamia beaked toad (Rhinella rostrata), the Jackson´s climbing salander (Bolitoglossa jacksoni), the African painted frog (Callixalus pictus), the Río Pescado Stubfoot toad (Atelopus balios), the scarlet frog (Atelopus sorianoi; depicted here), the Hula painted frog (Discoglossus nigriventer), the Sambas stream toad (Ansonia latidisca), and the Turkestanian salamander (Hynobius turkestanicus).

For more information, clik here: Search for lost amphibians.

Latest issue (June 2010) of REPTILE RAP

2010-07-06T08:33:00.000-04:30

A new issue of REPTILE RAP (No. 10, June 2010), the newsletter of the South Asian Reptile Network, is published and available as PDF at: www.zoosprint.org.

Articles are invited to the next issue under preparation. Please send your contributions and enquires to Sanjay Molur (herpinvert@gmail.com), Co-coordinator of South Asian Reptile Network.

New monitor lizards (Varanus spp.) from Philippines

2010-05-19T05:17:00.000-04:30

In spite of their large sizes, new species of monitor lizards (genus Varanus) are still being discovered, which speaks of our poor understanding of biodivertity on Earth.
Two new species (V. rasmusseni and V. palawenensis) and a new subspecies (V. c. cumingi) of monitor lizards were recently described from the Philippines in an article published in Zootaxa.

Reaching more visitors

2010-05-19T04:14:00.000-04:30

THANKS TO THE 1900 BLOG's VISITORS!

HERPETOLOGICAL FACULTY POSITION IN BONN, GERMANY

2010-05-11T05:28:00.002-04:30

via:http://www.cnah.org

The Zoologisches Forschungsmuseum Alexander Koenig (ZFMK), Bonn, seeks to fill the position of a researcher in the Department of Vertebrates (successor of Prof. Wolfgan Böhme). The position is expected to be available by December 2010. Potential candidates will hold a PhD in zoology or related areas, have their research focus on systematics of reptiles, turtles, and/or amphibians, and present a substantial publication record in taxonomic, phylogenetic and other biosystematic research. The candidate is expected to work in these fields from a sound theoretical basis and be able to apply an array of appropriate modern methods. He/she should be able to combine collection-based work with modern phylogenetic and/or ecological approaches. The candidate is also expected to
integrate into ongoing research projects at the ZFMK and teaching programmes in the University of Bonn and to be successful in raising external funds.

The successful candidate will be active in research projects and will be responsible as a curator for caring, managing and further increasing and developing the substantial, internationally important amphibian, turtle, and reptile collections in the ZFMK. He/she will also be involved in the self-administration of the institute and may eventually serve as the head of the vertebrate department. The candidate is also expected to demonstrate
commitment to community engagement in his/her field of research.

The successful candidate will be employed for an initial period of five years, after which he/she will obtain tenure depending on his/her performance. According to German law, applications by women and by disabled scientists will be given priority in case of superior or equal qualifications. Depending on occupational qualifications and experience, salary corresponds to grade TV-L/13 - 15 in the German Public Service scheme.

The ZFMK is a fellow institute of the Wissenschaftsgemeinschaft Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz (WGL Science Community) and works in close cooperation with the University of Bonn. It comprises internationally important scientific collections, libraries, electron microscopy, and bioacoustic, histological and molecular laboratories.

Interested applicants should submit a CV, complete publication record, a statement of teaching experience and research funding, certificates of university degrees, and selected publications in hard copies to the following address:

Prof. Dr. J. W. Wägele
Director
Zoologisches Forschungsmuseum Alexander Koenig
Adenauerallee 160
D-53113 Bonn, Germany

by 31 August 2010.

email inquiries: w.waegele.zfmk@uni-bonn.de

Monitoring and inventory techniques for amphibians of the tropical Andean region

2010-05-08T18:52:00.000-04:30

A classic manual, in Spanish, is available online at the following link:

http://issuu.com/majestik/docs/t_cnicas_de_inventario_y_monitoreo_de_anfibios/17

Major contents:

(1) The global status of amphibians.

(2) Towards a new regional strategy of research and conservation for amphibians in tropical Andean countries.

(3) Experimental design and statistical analyses.

(4) Biosecurity protocol and quarantine to prevent diseases transmission in amphibians.

(5) Fundamentals of bioacoustics and practical aspects or frog call recording and analysis.

(6) Techniques for the inventory and sampling of amphibians: a compilation.

(7) Preparation and preservation of scientific material.

(8) Amphibian monitoring.

(9) Bibliography.

(10) Resources/Sources of information on the Internet.

THANKS!

2010-04-28T05:59:00.000-04:30

We reached 1700 visitors from 700 cities of 72 countries. Thanks to all of you following this blog!

COURSE: ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION OF AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES. POPAYÁN-COLOMBIA

2010-04-28T05:47:00.001-04:30

A course intended to provide tools and to strengthen research in herpetology to develop conservation programs through instruction in ecology and conservation of amphibians and reptiles.

Dates: 5-10 July 2010.

Location: Sede campestre Fundación Universitaria de Popayán, Popayán, Colombia.

Information: cursoecologiayconservacion@yahoo.es

Deadline for applications: 28 April 2010.

DARWIN’S FROG (Rhinoderma darwinii): A VULNERABLE SPECIES

2010-04-12T18:37:00.000-04:30

Today’s “species of the day” is a curious amphibian found in Chile and neighboring Argentina, with a peculiar triangular shape of its head and a cylindrical dermal appendage at the tip of the snout. Most remarkable is its strange reproductive strategy of brooding egg and larvae within its mouth, from where the newly metamorphosed froglets step out.

Populations of this frog, discovered by Darwin in his famous travel around the World, are in decline, to the point that it is now considered in the conservation category of “Vulnerable”. Most probably, the causes of the declines are related to human activities, of which deforestation and several factors associated with climate change are among the main culprits.

ASTROCHELYS YNIPHORA: A CRITICALLY ENDANGERED LAND TORTOISE FROM MADAGASCAR

2010-04-10T04:45:00.000-04:30

"The Ploughshare Tortoise, Astrochelys yniphora, is listed as ‘Critically Endangered’ on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species^TMdue to a declining wild population of a few hundred animals. The elongated front spike of the undershell, used by males in breeding jousts for females, is the most remarkable feature of this spectacular tortoise.

Restricted to a tiny area of dry scrubland in northwestern Madagascar, this species has received conservation attention since the early 1970s. Protection of the small population in its natural habitat and a captive breeding programme slowly began to increase its numbers, until it became a target of illegal international wildlife traders.

Though strictly protected under Malagasy and CITES laws, unacceptable numbers of animals are smuggled and sold for huge sums by criminal pet dealers. Enhanced conservation measures are urgently needed to save this species, notably enforcing legal protection to prosecute those who drive the illegal trade, and repatriating recovered animals to secure breeding programmes".

Credits:

Text by IUCN's Species of the Day: http://www.iucnredlist.org/sotdfiles/astrochelys-yniphora.pdf

Photo by: Anders G.J. Rhodin

GOLIATH FROG CONSIDERED ENDANGERED

2010-03-30T23:07:00.002-04:30

According to the IUCN, the largest World's amphibian is listed as "Endangered".
Read more by clicking onto the "Species of the Day" link at the left column of this Blog.

AMERICA’S FLAGSHIP SEA TURTLE PROPOSED TO BE LISTED AS ENDANGERED

2010-03-19T05:52:00.001-04:30

A proposal was recently made public by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and NOAA Fisheries Service to change conservation status of American Northwest Atlantic populations of loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) to be treated as Endangered.

Florida accounts for over 90% of loggerhead nesting in the United States. Regrettably, nesting throughout this State has declined by over 40% since1998. The greatest threat to its survival today seems to be accidental capture, injury and death in commercial fisheries.

Source:http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2009/images/loggerhead_marcogiuliano.jpg

Concern about the species was triggered during the most recent chilling event in Florida, when almost all of the turtles rescued from the cold waters were green turtles –as opposed to previous cold events, when loggerheads accounted for about half of the captures. These findings raise concern that juvenile loggerheads, as well as nesting adults, could be in decline.

Strong conservation actions need to be taken on other critical populations along the Caribbean. Populations of Caretta caretta almost disappeared from historical nesting sites in Eastern Venezuela that, according to marine turtle conservation leader Hedelvy Guada, have suffered a drastic decline in recent times. Although currently listed as “Endandered” in Venezuela, similar to the category granted by the IUCN on global terms, Guada, based on the country local nesting crashes of this species (locally known as “tortuga cabezona”, “Caguama” or Carey”) have proposed to change its conservation status to Critically Endangered. Colombian populations have, also, diminished drastically. Nesting sites in other Caribbean places are scarce, although important colonies are present in Mexico. The largest numbers of nesting sites occur in the later, as well as along the Southeast coast of the United States, and some coasts of Brazil.

Colombian Giant Glass Frog Critically Endangered

2010-03-14T19:17:00.000-04:30

Colombia is the most frog diverse country in the World. Originally believed not to have as many endangered amphibians as the neighboring Andean countries of Ecuador and Venezuela, recent studies have demonstrated that, as in these other countries, an important part of its amphibian fauna is at some kind of risk. An example of a Colombian anuran amphibian in peril is a giant species of glass frog, Centrolene ballux (common name: Burrowes’ Giant Glass Frog), which is listed as ‘Critically Endangered’ on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

To learn on the causes of its decline, as well as to know on the conservation status of many other endangered species, visit the official IUCN website or click on the "Species of the Day" gadget at the rigth column of this blog, below the visitor´s statistics.

AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES FROM LORETO, PERU

2010-03-11T03:55:00.002-04:30

A full-color guide depicting 212 Peruvian herp species coming from Loreto is available to freely download from http://fm2.fieldmuseum.org/plantguides/guideimages.asp?ID=393

This beautiful and useful 14 pages guide is authored by Giuseppe Gagliardi-Urrutia, from the Peruvian Center for Biodiversity and Conservation.

Illustrated in the guide are 122 frogs, 1 caecilian, 2 salamanders, 2 crocodilians, 2 amphisbaenians, 32 lizards, 46 snakes and 5 turtles species.

The utility of the guide surpases that for Peruvian herp researchers and amateurs, since several of these species also occur in other South American countries.

SPECIES OF THE DAY: THE TITICACA WATER FROG

2010-03-04T04:55:00.002-04:30

The “Titicaca water frog” (“Rana gigante del Lago Titicaca”, Telmatobius culeus) is the World’s largest aquatic anuran amphibian.

There are reports of specimens up to 50 cm in length and weighting 1 kilogram. It is a completely aquatic species, bearing many skins folds thought to help in breathing through increased area for respiration.

It is a species endemic to Lago Titicaca, the World’s largest (204 x 65 km) and highest (3800 m) endorheic lake (that is, in a closed internal drainage basin) shared by Bolivia and Peru.

Although currently listed as “Critically Endangered” and with its habitat being protected, specimens of this unique frog are still sold for human consumption in restaurants at Lake Titicaca, and also as souvenirs or as byproducts used in traditional medicine.

Read more by checking the "Species of the Day" gadget at the right column of this blog.

RE-DISCOVERER OF THE SIAMESE CROC RECEIVED ROYAL AWARD

2010-02-22T12:23:00.000-04:30

Dr Jenny Daltry has been actively involved in conservation of wildlife and environments in Cambodia. For her achievements, she has recently been given a Royal award by the Government of Cambodia. In the year 2000 she re-discovered the Siamese crocodile (a species previously thought to be extinct in the wild; see our previous blog, dated Nov 25, 2009) and is leading a community-based programme to preserve this Critically Endangered Crocodylus. She has also been involved in the protection of more than a million hectares of the biodiverse Cardamom Mountains.

Drt. Daltry is a Senior Conservation Biologist for the international conservation organization Fauna & Flora International. Among her achievements in Cambodia are the creation of the first permanent Masters of Science programme at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, and the creation and chief editing of Cambodia’s first peer-reviewed scientific journal (the Cambodian Journal of

Natural History).

SPECIES OF THE DAY: THE CHINESE ALLIGATOR

2010-02-22T10:37:00.000-04:30

One of the most endangered crocodilians, the Chinese alligator (Alligator sinesis) is also one of the smallest (about 2 m long). This relative of the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) has a geographic distribution restricted to the lower Yangtze River region in China. Habitat destruction by human pressure for agriculture has been considered the major cause of the species’ decline. It is listed as “Critically Endangered” since it has suffered a drastic decline in numbers of wild individuals (estimated to be less than 150) and the extant populations hold less than 10 individuals each. However, about 10,000 specimens are currently being reared in captivity and are a source of hope for the long-term survival of the species through reintroductions in the wild.

To learn more about this species, visit the "Species of the Day" section at the rigth column of this blog, below our statistics gadget, or visit the official IUCN website.

SPECIES OF THE DAY: MINYOBATES STEYERMARKI

2010-02-18T04:43:00.000-04:30

The "Demonic poison frog" (Minyobates steyermarki) is a little red frog living in Cerro Yapacana, an isolated table top mountain in southern Venezuela. Even though the place is protected as both a National Monument and a National Park, the species is facing the risks of habitat change mainly through human intervention by mining and associated fires and habitat destruction, as well as illegal pet trading. The species is currently listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Daily, you may follow accounts on some of the most threatened creatures on Earth by visiting the "Species of the day" gadget on the rigth column of this blog, just below our statistics, or directly by visiting the website IUCN Species of the Day.

30th Annual Symposium on Sea Turtle Biology and Conservation

2010-02-02T05:47:00.000-04:30

The International Sea Turtle Society will hold its 30th Annual Symposium on Sea Turtle Biology and Conservation at Goa, India, from 27 to 29 April 2010. It is the first time the symposium is presented in the South Asian region.

This event is being jointly hosted and organized by sea turtle conservation groups and research organizations as well as institutions that work on marine environment issues across India and South Asia.

The symposium is open to anyone interested in sea turtle biology and conservation and in related marine conservation, policy, social, ecological and fisheries related aspects.

To learn more, Visit the symposium website http://india.seaturtle.org/symposium2010.

2010-02-02T05:07:00.001-04:30

The newest issue of the South Asia Reptile Network's (SARN) Newsletter, the "REPTILE RAP", is now available at:

http://www.zoosprint.org/ZoosPrintNewsLetter/REPTILE_RAP_9_21jan10.pdf

Contents:
(1) Note on the defensive behavior of Cochin Forest cane turtle (Vijayachelys silvatica).
(2) Snakes of Rameshwaram.
(3) First record of Uropeltis ellioti and study of their habits and habitat in Melghat Forest in Satpuda.
(4) Notes on the distribution and natural history of lined supple skink Lygosoma lineata (Gray, 1839)(Squamata: Sauria: Scincidae).
(5) Indian eyed turtle Morenia petersi (Anderson, 1879) in the Deepor Beel, Ramsar site.
(6) Notes on the effect of a bite from Calliophis melanurus Shaw, 1802 (Serpentes: Elapidae: Calliophinae).
(7) Notes on the predation of Cnemaspis sp. by Hemidactylus cf. brookii Gray, 1845 (Squamata: Sauria: Gekkonodae).
(8) Notes on the natural history of common smooth water snake Enhydris enhydris Schneider, 1799 (Serpentes: Colubridae).
(9) Mortality of spiny-tailed lizard Uromastyx hardwickii Hardwicke & Gray, 1827 in the Katchchh District of Gujarat.
(10) A report on endo and ecto parasitism in a Indian rat snake (Ptyas mucosa) from Namakkal District of Tamil Nadu.
(11) Notes on a rescue of a Burmese python Python molurus bivittatus Kuhl, 1820 (Family: Pythonidae) from an urban area of Bongaigaon District, Assam.
(12) Infighting injuries in male common Indian lizard Calotes versicolor (Daudin) during breeding period.
(13) Rearing of juvenile estuarine crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) at Dhaka Zoo.
(14) Physical restraining gadget for crocodiles.
(15) Rectal prolapse in a Indan cobra (Naja naja).

This newsletter can be accessed also through the publication web site: http://www.zoosprint.org

AUSTRALIA: Conference and Workshop Announcement

2010-01-16T10:40:00.000-04:30

Emerging Amphibian Diseases: A Preventable Cause of Mass Extinction?

23^rd June – 1^st July 2010

James Cook University

Townsville, Queensland, Australia

Join us in the tropical north of Australia for a combined conference and workshop on emerging amphibian diseases which are a major cause of the current mass extinction of amphibians.

A 5 day conference (23-27 June, including a field day) will highlight international research and management in the fields of epidemiology, microbiology, pathogenesis, virulence, immunity, bioaugmentation and treatment relating to chytridiomycosis. One day will also be dedicated to other emerging amphibian diseases.

The 3 day workshop (29 June-1 July) following the conference is most suitable for researchers, wildlife managers, amphibian keepers and students new to the field of amphibian diseases. We will help you to develop skills in diagnosis, microbial culture, field work, husbandry, necropsy, hygiene, treatment, study design and epidemiological analyses.

Details of registration and submission of abstracts will be available in February 2010. Students and researchers from developing countries may be eligible for financial assistance.

E-mail: andrea.phillott@jcu.edu.au to register your interest and for further details.

FROGS: A CHORUS OF COLORS; JUMP TO SEE IT!

2009-12-30T05:03:00.001-04:30

Visiting the web site "Frogs: A Chorus of Colors" is a delightful experience, like the actual exhibition itself held at the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) for the last days (up to January 3rd, 2010).

Enter this web site to enjoy the diversity of frogs and to feed your knowledge on this interesting and threatened group of vertebrates.

The site includes a beautiful series of frogs (mostly tropical), part of a large collection that includes more than 70 frog species at the exhibition. Through a collection of live-pictured specimens, the web site teaches you through tips on aspects like amphibian evolution, reproduction, ecology facts, global declines, details on morphology, and much, much more. Enhance your knowledge on frogs by also reading a large list of “frog fun facts”.

To learn more, visit the section on the herpetological holdings at the AMNH, and the research that is or has been carried out by the museum around the World (mostly on tropical countries).

Do not miss a terrarium with a real-time live web cam, where you can see frogs in action. And to close your multimedia experience, listen to the calls of different tropical frog species. This site is a must for frog lovers!

May 2010 Course: Species Monitoring and Conservation

2009-12-20T12:54:00.001-04:30

Location: National Zoo's Conservation and Research Center, Front Royal, Virginia, USA.

Dates: 16-28 May 2010.

Subject: Latest methodologies and approaches to biodiversity assessment and monitoring with a special emphasis on amphibians.
Topics:

Field assessment and monitoring techniques such as call surveys, artificial cover, drift fences and pitfall, mark and recaptures, transects and plots, and larvae surveys.
Amphibian identification, taxonomy, and collection.
Captive breeding and animal husbandry.
Wildlife toxicology.
Disease and pathology.
Genetics.

Information: Conservation training course.

Amphibians and Reptiles of Northeast India

2009-12-20T11:04:00.000-04:30

A photographic guide to the herpetofauna of Northeast India, part of the Indo-Burma Biodiversity hotspot. The book covers more than 100 species with more than 250 photographs. Taxa covered:

29 amphibians
1 crocodile (gharial)
21 fresh water turtles and tortoises
29 snakes
23 lizards

The guide includes a snake-bite section, as well as data on geographic distribution, natural history, taxonomic characters useful for identification, and conservation status of the herp species.

For more information, and to order copies of the book, visit: Aaranyak

BOOK ON THE AMPHIBIANS OF THE KAIETEUR NATIONAL PARK, GUYANA

2009-12-19T06:47:00.000-04:30

Likely, this is the most complete guide to the amphibian fauna for a tropical protected area. This book covers 48 species of frogs, toads and caecilians living in the Kaieteur National Park (Guyana).

Each of the species is beautifully illustrated with pictures of the live animal, and plates pointing to distinguishing features that facilitates field identification. The vast majority of the species also has color illustrations showing oscillograms and spectrograms of advertisement calls.

A complete fully illustrated section is devoted to key features of adult and larval stages, which is the most complete and detailed modern guide on external morphological characteristics for amphibian species, of ample utility to workers in other tropical places.

The book also provides useful information on methods and techniques to perform taxonomic studies, surpassing the usual information on collecting, preserving and gathering data on the specimens, to offer valuable data and tips on personal equipment to carry to the field, photography, recording of calls, and much more.

This book will be the delight of professionals, students and lay people alike, and a “jewel book” to collectors.

To order the book or to download low and high resolution pdfs, go to : Abc Taxa

700 VISITS!

2009-12-14T20:31:00.000-04:30

THANKS FOR READING THE BLOG. WE NOW REACHED 700 VISITORS!Preserve biodiversity!

2010 the International Year of Biodiversity

2009-12-14T19:58:00.000-04:30

Amphibians and reptiles losses in the last decades are just part of a biodiversity crisis affecting the World. Habitat destruction and climate change are among the main culprits affecting these groups, as well as the rest of variety of life on Earth.

To raise awareness on the importance of biodiversity, as well as to take actions to preserve it, the United Nations declared 2010 the International Year of Biodiversity (IYB). The later will provide an opportunity for the World to strengthen efforts to understand and preserve biodiversity and the services it provides for human well-being. Even though we have failed to properly administrate the World’s biodiversity, it is our responsibility to study, protect and preserve it for future generations. And this has to be done with urgency!

To read on the IYB, visit: http://www.cbd.int/2010/welcome/

NEW RESEARCH ON ATRAZINE BRINGS BACK AN AMPHIBIAN ECOLOGICAL ISSUE

2009-12-07T21:43:00.000-04:30

Atrazine is a herbicide widely used on crop fields around the World to control broadleaf and grassy weeds. The negative effects that this commonly used agro-chemical pesticide have on frogs received high scientific and general public attention in 2002. Nonetheless, a previous study by Diana et al. (2000) had already highlighted that high concentrations of Atrazine in artificial aquatic communities resulted in frogs with a decrease in length and weight at metamorphosis, which may result in fitness reduction.

The studies by Tyrone Hayes and colleagues at the University of California, Berkeley, USA, in 2002, demonstrated that exposure of frogs to low levels of Atrazine induced abnormalities such as retarded development and hermaphroditism. The findings of impaired reproductive function suggested that natural frog populations exposed to this herbicide may suffer declines. However, investigations by other research teams, including Syngenta, the principal Atrazine registrant, reported no adverse effects.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), based on a review of laboratory and field studies, concluded (2007) that Atrazine does not adversely affect amphibian gonadal development. Beginning this fall (2009), EPA started a comprehensive reevaluation of Atrazine’s ecological effects, including potential effects on amphibians and human health.

Atrazine was recently shown by Suzawa and Ingraham (2008) to potentially disrupt normal endocrine development and function in lower and higher vertebrates. And this month (2009), it was released a study performed by researchers at the University of Otawa, Canada, which found that Atrazine alters the sexual development and had a feminizing effect on studied frogs, resulting in sex ratios favoring females, with a reduced number of males. The issue is back!

THE AMPHIBIAN ARK

2009-11-30T05:12:00.000-04:30

The Amphibian Ark

The world’s amphibians are disappearing. More than one hundred species may have already gone extinct and thousands more are threatened with extinction. Many of the threatened species cannot be safeguarded in the wild and require ex situ management if they are to persist. The Amphibian Ark (AArk) draws together diverse stakeholders to save select species until in situ threats can be mitigated. AArk work includes species conservation needs assessment, husbandry training, capacity building, fostering partnerships, fundraising, and education.

The AArk is a joint effort of three principal partners: the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), the IUCN/SSC Conservation Breeding Specialist Group (CBSG), and the IUCN/SSC Amphibian Specialist Group (ASG). We were formed in 2005 to address the ex situ components of the Amphibian Conservation Action Plan (ACAP).

Our vision is The world’s amphibians safe in nature, and our mission is Ensuring the global survival of amphibians, focusing on those that cannot currently be safeguarded in nature.

We help to coordinate ex situ programs implemented by partners around the world, with the first emphasis on programs within the range countries of the species, and with a constant attention to our obligation to couple ex situ conservation measures with necessary efforts to protect or restore species in their natural habitats.

More information about the Amphibian Ark is available on our web site, www.amphibianark.org and we also encourage you to subscribe to our free quarterly electronic newsletter.

Kevin Johnson

Amphibian Ark Communications and Development Officer

kevinj@amphibianark.org

BOOK ON LIZARDS FROM SRI LANKA

2009-11-30T03:52:00.000-04:30

This is a recent checklist (year 2009) with all the lizard species known to occur in Sri Lanka. There are accounts with pictures and relevant information for each of the species. An illustrated key, showing thumbnail images, facilitates identification of the different taxa. The book completes with a glossary, a gazetteer of localities, an index to scientific names, and a list of references.

Contact: ruchira.somaweera@gmail.com (please notice that this author does not sell copies but could point to several places that do).

HAWKSBILL TURTLE RESCUED IN THE GULF OF VENEZUELA

2009-11-28T10:56:00.000-04:30

A Hawksbill Sea Turtle ("Tortuga Carey", Eretmochelys imbricata) was rescued by the Marine Turtle Work Group of Venezuela’s Gulf -Grupo de Trabajo en Tortugas Marinas del Golfo de Venezuela- (GTTM-GV) at Caimare Chico beach, in the Gulf of Venezuela, last November 16th.

   This reptile was accidentally trapped in a handmade fishing net; the fisherman, who was already aware of the work this group executes, activated the Opportune Information Network – Zulia (RAO-Zulia) that lead the team to its encounter. At present it is very weak, nevertheless it has satisfactorily responded to the rehabilitation process; its physiological conditions are perfectly normal, it has very good appetite and it is hunting little shrimp that are put in its proximity.

   This rescue is extremely special, because it is referred to one of the species of marine turtles (E. imbricata) that are in critic danger of extinction; this is why it is exceedingly important for the GTTM-GV to get this magnificent specimen healthy and release it under the best conditions so that it has higher opportunities of survival. On the other hand, it is repeatedly questioned the reason why this little chelonian was found on the coastal waters of the Venezuelan Gulf.

It is important to highlight that the whole process of rescuing, rehabilitation and immediate reintegration of this specimen within its environment is under this team’s responsibility, and it is supported by the Wash Ashore Attention Network of Zulia State (Minamb, ICLAM, LUZ, InsoPESCA, among others).

Text by Erika Simonaro.
Source: GTTM-GV 20/11/2009. (gttm-gv@gmail.com, Facebook: GTTM-GV)

NEW COURSE ON VENEZUELAN SNAKES

2009-11-28T05:20:00.000-04:30

INTRODUCTION TO THE KNOWLEDGE AND CONSERVATION OF VENEZUELAN SNAKES Importance, classification, origin and evolution, morphology, natural history, conservation, Venezuelan Families and Genera, importance of Internet and photography.
Language: Spanish
Place: Auditorium Sociedad de Ciencias, El Marqués, Caracas, Venezuela.
Date: Saturday 23 January 2010
Contact: info@serpientesdevenezuela.net

CONSERVATION HOPE FOR THE CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SIAMESE CROCODILE

2009-11-25T09:35:00.000-04:30

The Siamese crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis) is a Critically Endangered species with small populations living in continental Southeast Asia and the islands of Java and Borneo. The species no longer occurs in the vast majority of its former range: it was hunted in so large numbers that it was declared as “Extinct in the wild” by the 1992 IUCN Crocodile Action Plan.

Some threats to the species are captures in the wild, river hydroelectric projects, and increasing human pressure on natural habitats. There are some specimens in captivity, but most of them are hybrids.
This year, DNA analyses revealed that 35 crocs of the 69 rescued crocodiles at the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre, in Cambodia, were pure breed Siamese crocs. The finding is thought to be critical for the long-term preservation of the species, through a captive breeding program and later release of offspring in suitable natural habitats. Fauna & Flora International, the Cambodian Forestry Administration, and Wildlife Alliance are providing technical support for this task. This action will start in 2010; but, since sexual maturation of the species is slow, it will take more than a decade before the program yields more positive results.

We thank Fauna & Flora International and the Cambodian Crocodile Conservation Programme for allowing use of the photos shown here.
Read more on this story at: www.fauna&flora.org: Siamese_crocs

200+ visitors during first month

2009-11-21T07:06:00.000-04:30

MANY THANKS FOR VISITING THE BLOG! WE REACHED NOW MORE THAN 200 VISITORS FROM 30 COUNTRIES IN OUR FIRST MONTH!

¡MUCHAS GRACIAS POR VISITAR EL BLOG! ¡AHORA ALCANZAMOS MÁS DE 200 VISITANTES DESDE 30 PAÍSES EN NUESTO PRIMER MES!

NEW BOOK ON AMPHIBIANS

2009-11-18T06:56:00.001-04:30

AMPHIBIANS OF VENEZUELA: state of knowledge and recommendations to its conservation (In Spanish)

This document is the first intent to evaluate the state of knowledge, and to identify and order the country’s need in matter of conservation of amphibians.

Contact: josefa.senaris @fundacionlasalle.org.ve

FRESWATER TURTLES AND TORTOISES ACCOUNTS

2009-11-15T18:46:00.000-04:30

The IUCN/SSC Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group is engaged in a long term conservation project dealing with all extant freshwater turtles and tortoises in the world. Species accounts have already been prepared for 31 species involving 73 Nations and Territories where they occur. Published accounts (last one released on 13 November 2009) are available at: http://www.iucn-tftsg.org/

NEW BOOK ON SERPENTES

2009-11-14T18:45:00.000-04:30

GUIDE TO THE SNAKES OF VENEZUELA: Biology, venoms, conservation and species list.

A full-color illustrated guide to the snakes of Venezuela (103 pages, In Spanish).

Available from: Luis Fernando Navarrete: herpetoamigo@gmail.com

NEW SYMPOSIUM ON SNAKE VENOM AND SNAKEBITE (IN NORTHEASTERN INDIA)

2009-11-07T18:39:00.000-04:30

The symposium on “Recent Advances in Research on Snake Venom and Snakebite Therapy: National and International Perspectives (SnakSymp-09)” is scheduled to be held in Tezpur, Assam, India, from 18 to 19 December 2009.

The symposium will be attended by many renowned toxinologists and physicians of India and abroad. For more information contact: snaksymp@gmail.com

AMPHIBIAN AND REPTILE CRISIS. LATEST UPDATE

2009-11-06T09:55:00.004-04:30

The 2009 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™ shows that 17,291 species out of the 47,677 assessed species are threatened with extinction. Craig Hilton-Taylor, Manager of the IUCN Red List Unit, says “these results are just the tip of the iceberg. We have only managed to assess 47,663 species so far; there are many more millions out there which could be under serious threat".

The IUCN results reveal that 30 percent of all known amphibians, and 28 percent of reptiles assessed so far are under threat.

Of the 1,677 reptiles on the IUCN Red List, 469 are threatened with extinction and 22 are already Extinct or Extinct in the Wild.

The IUCN Red List shows that “1,895 of the planet’s 6,285 amphibians are in danger of extinction, making them the most threatened group of species known to date. Of these, 39 are already Extinct or Extinct in the Wild, 484 are Critically Endangered, 754 are Endangered and 657 are Vulnerable”.

NEW COURSE FOR 2010

2009-11-05T20:51:00.003-04:30

The course (given in Spanish language) “Introduction to the study of Neotropical Amphibians” will be held at the University of the Amazonia in Florencia, Caquetá (Colombia), from 24 to 27 February 2010.

Contact and information: fundacionfiba@gmail.com

TAPROBANICA

2009-11-04T21:32:00.000-04:30

Taprobanica, the Journal of South Asian Biodiversity, launched in April 2009, publishes original papers, notes, and essays on South Asian biodiversity topics, with special attention to Sri Lanka and the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot. The first number featured almost 60% of papers on amphibians and reptiles. The second number is scheduled to appear in November 2009.

AMPHIBIAN AND REPTILE HIGH DIVERSITY IN THE GAMBA COMPLEX OF GABON, AFRICA

2009-11-01T19:41:00.004-04:30

The Gamba Complex in Gabon, is a national protected wildland mosaic, mix of tropical forest, savanna, fresh water, and marine environments. It holds a high diversity of amphibians (75 species) and reptiles (84 species; including 11 turtles, 3 crocodiles, 2 amphisbaenians, 23 lizards, and 49 snakes), by far the richest herpetofauna assemblage for this African country. Although the herpetofauna of Gabon is very rich, it is also one of the least known and potentially one of the most endangered.

Learn more at: MABinGabon/biodiversity

NEW SYMPOSIUM IN COLOMBIA

2009-10-30T22:08:00.000-04:30

I Symposium of herpetology in the Chocó Biogeografico; Amphibians and reptiles: "Past, present and future of herpetology research in the region".
To be held in Quibdó, Colombia, 25 to 27 November 2009.
Language of symposium: Spanish
Contact: simposioherpetologia@utch.edu.col; Tel.: 6710237 ext. 232

NEW WEB SITE: HERPETOTROPICOS

2009-10-29T10:12:00.006-04:30

HERPETOTROPICOS announces the launching of a new web site for the journal. Please follow this link:

www.herpetotropicos.org

If you have an article on tropical herpetofauna, please consider sending your valuable contribution to the only scientific journal dealing exclusively with tropical amphibians and reptiles. Please find instructions on the web site.

CALL FOR PAPERS

2009-10-24T18:06:00.005-04:30

HERPETOTROPICOS is seeking original contributions on subjects pertaining to tropical amphibians and reptiles. If you have a potential article, please contact: editor@herpetotropicos.org

HERPETOTROPICOS

2009-10-24T12:33:00.002-04:30

Herpetotropicos is an international peer-reviewed, indexed and open access scientific journal, launched in 2004, specially devoted to tropical amphibians and reptiles from all over the World. The official languages are English and Spanish (with abstracts and legends to figures and tables in both languages). The journal publishes two issues per year. In addition to the printed edition (ISSN 1690-7930), there is a simultaneous online edition (ISSN 1856-9285). Authors are permitted to distribute, for private uses, printed copies of their published articles, as well as to post final pdf’s on a personal website, an institutional repository, or any other free public server. Herpetotropicos currently make efforts to increase both the authorship and readership of the journal in tropical countries.