The Terrestrial Reptiles of the Gulf of Guinea Oceanic Islands

Abstract

AbstractThis chapter reviews current knowledge on the diversity of terrestrial reptiles in the Gulf of Guinea oceanic islands and provides a brief history of research on this group of animals. A total of 29 species of terrestrial reptiles (representing 14 genera and seven families) are resident on the Gulf of Guinea oceanic islands, of which 22 species are endemic. Taxonomic work on these animals began in the second half of the nineteenth century, with more recent updates following the advent of molecular techniques and more comprehensive sampling. Although nearly complete, the taxonomic inventory of the Gulf of Guinea oceanic island terrestrial reptiles is still ongoing, and further studies on the natural history, ecology, and conservation of these animals are urgently needed.