Potential impacts of invasive Pythons in Brazil

Abstract

Abstract The global pet trade's demand has led to the introduction of large constrictor snakes into new environments, either intentionally or accidentally. Brazil boasts the third-highest reptile species diversity globally, with snakes representing the predominant reptilian group, including 12 constrictor species. The potential for competition and predation between invasive and native snakes underscores the need for a comprehensive assessment of risks faced by endemic herpetofauna. This study aims to identify potential areas for invasive python establishment and assess their impact on native constrictors in Brazil. Environmental Niche Models were employed to predict suitable habitats for both invasive pythons and four endemic Brazilian snake species. By overlapping Python spp. records with those of endemic serpents, the study sought to understand resource availability for potential invasive species and the vulnerability of native species to python invasion. The results highlight Python sebae and Python bivittatus as potential invasive species posing a threat to native constrictors. Conversely, Eunectes murinus, with its semi-aquatic behavior, exhibited lower vulnerability. Endemic serpents, including Boa constrictor, Corallus hortulanus, and Epicrates cenchria, were identified as highly susceptible to potential competition from invasive pythons. These findings emphasize the importance of understanding the potential ecological impacts of the introduction of invasive species on native ecosystems.