The imperiled amphibian and reptiles of the seasonally dry forests of Guatemala
Reference Module in Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences
2021
Book Section
Early View
Elsevier
Ctenosaura palearis
Seasonally dry tropical forests are one of the most endangered ecosystems with vast portions with different levels of degradation through its range, especially in Central America. Within this region, Guatemala is the country with the greatest loss of dry forest. These seasonally dry forests of Guatemala are biologically diverse, harboring many endangered endemic species of amphibians and reptiles, which are threatened by habitat destruction, fragmentation, and global warming. The most imperiled amphibians and reptiles that inhabit this area are the Motagua Worm Salamander, the Motagua Robber Frog, the Motagua Spiny-tailed Iguana, the Motagua Graceful Brown Snake, and the Guatemalan Beaded Lizard. Herein, we discuss the main aspects of the ecology and conservation of these imperiled species.