Conservation of the herpetofauna of the Dominican Republic

Abstract

The hcrpetofauna of the Dominican Republic consists of 39 frogs (two of which are introduced), 110 squa­ mates (olle possibly extinct and three or fOUf introduced), one crocodilian, three turtles (one introduced), plus fOUf species of sea turtles. Renccting the recent "Glohal Amphibian Assessment", 32 of 37 (86%) on· live species of amphibians are included on the IUeN Red List. Reptilian species given formal recognition as being in need of protection include the sea turtles (listed in CITES appendices and the IUCN Red List), the two native species of pond turtles (Traehelll)'s spp.: mCN, although one as being at "lower risk" ofextinc~ tion), both species of rock iguanas (Cyclfll"ll spp.; CITES and IUCN), two giant galJiwasps (CeleslIu spp., meN), three boids (Epierates spp., CITES), a ground boa (Tropidophis haetiamls, CITES), and the Amer­ ican crocodile (Crocodyills aelltlls; CITES and IUCN). However, at least some additional squamate species appear to meet criteria for inclusion on the IUeN Red List. Four factors largely responsible for the status of these species arc: (I) small ranges, habitat specialization. and encroachment by human activities (many amphibians); (2) large size and cconomic value (turtles. iguanas, crocodile): (3) persecution by people who fear them (galliwasps and snakes); and (4) diurnally active, terrestrial. and vulnerable to predation by mon­ gooses and other introduced mammalian predators (some snakes, Mabllya). Although protection for a few species and for national parks in critical habitats is legislated, enforcement is sporadic and threats, mostly associated with exploitation and development, remain. Specific recommendations for the conservation of the herpetofauna arc listed. © Koninklijke Brill NV. Lciden. 2009