Snake (Serpentes, Reptilia) diversity in Mera, Ecuador: a citizen-science approach to surveying a biodiversity hotspot of the western Amazon

Abstract:

Mera County is located in the eastern lowlands of the Llanganates–Sangay Connectivity Corridor (CELS) and is considered a priority conservation area due to the high degree of endemism and existing biological diversity. In the present study, we analyzed snake records from three databases as well as preserved specimens from two local informal collections, four formal collections, and five international collection databases with the participation of numerous students and citizen scientists. Collectively, we examined 85 years’ worth of material—666 individual records, representing seven families, 31 genera, and 66 species. We report seven species previously unrecorded in the study area and 14 new size and elevation records. Our results place this small county among the most snake-diverse areas in the world. Our citizen-science approach highlights the value of collaborative work and regional initiatives to involve local people and organizations (private, government, and universities) in scientific efforts.

Año de publicación:

2025

Keywords:

• Biodiversity
• citizen science
• Llanganates–Sangay Connectivity Corridor
• Ophidia
• REPTILES

Fuente:

scopus