Diversity, Distribution and Conservation Status of Hereptilian Fauna of Quetta District, Balochistan
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Abstract
Herpitiles are an ecologically significant group of organisms including amphibians and reptiles. Field surveys were conducted on a regular basis in District Quetta, Balochistan, from May 2022 to August 2023, in order to collect data and assess the conservation status of reptiles and amphibians. There were 120 individuals sighted in the research area, including 92 reptiles and 28 Amphibian species. Reptiles including Lizards and Snakes were dominant in the study area. The highest number of Lizards was 9 (22.5%) in August and the lowest was 4 (10%) in March, while the highest number of snakes was 16 (44.4%) in July and the lowest was 1 (2.7%) in March, and the highest number of tortoises were 7 (30.4%) in August and the lowest 1 (4.3%) in April, while the highest number of frogs were 4 (33.3%) in August and the lowest number was 1 (8.3%) in March, April and June. The species Bufotes zugmayeri were recorded for the first time from the study area. The major threats to the conservation of Reptiles and Amphibians include habitat loss and degradation, the rapid expansion of urbanization, agriculture and infrastructure development has resulted in the loss and fragmentation of natural habitats. This has significantly affected the reptile populations by reducing their available habitat and food sources.
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