Contribution to knowledge of batracho-and herpetofauna of southern and south-eastern Serbia

Abstract

We present the updated distribution of batracho-and herpetofauna in southern and south-eastern Serbia, based on literature and new field records for 16 amphibian and 22 reptile species. In these two biogeographic regions, already recognized as biodiversity hotspots, we discovered two new amphibian species with limited distribution: Hyla orientalis and Pelobates balcanicus. Also, one species (Triturus ivanbureshi) has restricted distribution, while one (Bombina bombina) is rare. Four reptile species have limited distributions and six are rare in these regions. The presence of hybrid zones and the influence of the Mediterranean climate make southern and south-eastern Serbia areas of great importance and the target for future ecological and conservation studies in Serbia.