Overview of Reptile Diversity from Bobaomby Complex, Northern Tip of Madagascar

Abstract

Many studies on reptiles have been conducted across Madagascar but some areas are poorly known in terms of the diversity of reptiles such as the Bobaomby Complex in the northern tip of Madagascar. In February and March 2018, we conducted a biodiversity survey within five sites. This biological survey is to collect scientific information for helping new protected creations. Three main methods were used including pitfall trap, visual and acoustic searching along the transect and refuge examination. In total, we recorded 42 species including 5 chameleons, 8 skinks, 11 geckos, 16 snakes and 2 blinds snake species. All recorded species are endemic to Madagascar except Hemidactylus frenatus, Ebenavia inunguis and Phelsuma abbotti. Rare species known only from a few specimens have been recorded in the Bobaomby Complex: Heteroliodon fohy, Pseudoxyrhopus ambreensis, and Madascincus arenicola. Thirteen species are classified as threatened on the IUCN Red List, of which three are Critically Endangered: Paracontias minimus, Madascincus arenicola, and Paroedura lohatsara; three are Endangered: Heteroliodon fohy, Lycodryas inopinae, and Phisalixella variabilis; and seven are Vulnerable: Brookesia ebenaui, Furcifer petteri, Blaesodactylus boivini, Uroplatus ebenaui, Uroplatus henkeli, Liophidium therezieni and Flexiseps ardouini. Our results reveal the importance of the Bobaomby Complex for conserving reptile diversity and highlight the need to protect it.