Conservation of Caribbean Island Herpetofaunas Volume 2: Regional Accounts of the West Indies

Conservation of Caribbean Island Herpetofaunas Volume 2: Regional Accounts of the West Indies
Author: Adrian Hailey
Publisher: BRILL
Total Pages: 448
Release: 2011-04-07
Genre: Science
ISBN: 9004194096

Most of the islands of the Caribbean have long histories of herpetological exploration and discovery, and even longer histories of human-mediated environmental degradation. Collectively, they constitute a major biodiversity hotspot – a region rich in endemic species that are threatened with extinction. This two-volume series documents the existing status of herpetofaunas (including sea turtles) of the Caribbean, and highlights conservation needs and efforts. Previous contributions to West Indian herpetology have focused on taxonomy, ecology and evolution, particularly of lizards. This series provides a unique and timely review of the status and conservation of all groups of amphibians and reptiles in the region. This volume provides regional accounts of the islands of the West Indies biogeographic region.

Natural History of West Indian Reptiles and Amphibians

Natural History of West Indian Reptiles and Amphibians
Author: Robert W. Henderson
Publisher:
Total Pages: 530
Release: 2009
Genre: Nature
ISBN:

The reference source that biologists interested in West Indian herpetofauna have been waiting for.--Steven Reichling, curator, Memphis Zoo A state-of-the-art compendium. The West Indies is one of the hottest of the world's biodiversity hot spots and will continue to be a focus of ecological research, now invigorated by this definitive synthesis.--S. Blair Hedges, Pennsylvania State University The West Indies have become a major focus for biologists and conservationists. Its herpetofauna is considered one of the richest and most vulnerable in the world. These fragile natural environments are home to many unique animals that occur only on these islands. Loss of habitat, development of scenic areas for a burgeoning tourist industry, and the introduction of invasive species have contributed to an already tenuous situation for many of the region's native species. This volume summarizes the natural history of each of the more than seven hundred species of frogs and reptiles that live in the West Indies. Sure to be the starting point for all future research on West Indian amphibians and reptiles, it will be an essential companion to the biologist contemplating or conducting research in the area.

Cyclura

Cyclura
Author: Jeffrey Lemm
Publisher: Academic Press
Total Pages: 241
Release: 2011-08-09
Genre: Technology & Engineering
ISBN: 1437735177

Rock iguanas of the West Indies are considered to be the most endangered group of lizards in the world. They are a flagship species in the Caribbean and on most islands are the largest native land animals. Unfortunately, human encroachment and introduced animals have brought this species to the brink of extinction. Cyclura: Natural History, Husbandry, and Conservation of the West Indian Iguanas is the first book to combine the natural history and captive husbandry of these remarkable reptiles, while at the same time outlining the problems researchers and conservationists are battling to save these beautiful, iconic animals of the Caribbean islands. Authors Jeffrey Lemm and Allison Alberts have been studying West Indian iguanas for nearly 20 years in the wild and in captivity; their experiences with wild iguanas and their exquisite photos of these charismatic lizards in the wild make this book a must-have for reptile researchers, academics and enthusiasts, as well as anyone interested in nature and conservation. Includes chapters with contributions by leading experts on rock iguana taxonomy, nutrition, and diseases Features color photos of all taxa, including habitat and captive shots Provides easily understandable and usable information gleaned from experience and hands-on reptile research

Global Re-introduction Perspectives

Global Re-introduction Perspectives
Author: Pritpal S. Soorae
Publisher: IUCN
Total Pages: 366
Release: 2010
Genre: Animals
ISBN: 283171320X

"This is the second issue in the Global Re-introduction Perspectives series and has been produced in the same standardized format as the previous one. The case-studies are arranged in the following order: Introduction, Goals, Success Indicators, Project Summary, Major Difficulties Faced, Major Lessons Learned, Success of Project with reasons for success or failure. For this second issue we received a total of 72 case-studies compared to 62 in the last issue. These case studies cover the following taxa as follows: invertebrates (9), fish (6), amphibians (5), reptiles (7), birds (13), mammals (20) and plants (12) ... We hope the information presented in this book will provide a broad global perspective on challenges facing re-introduction projects trying to restore biodiversity."--Pritpal S. Soorae.

West Indian Iguanas

West Indian Iguanas
Author: Allison Alberts
Publisher: World Conservation Union
Total Pages: 0
Release: 2000
Genre: Iguanas
ISBN: 9782831704562

The West Indian Iguanas form a unique group of species inhabiting tropical dry forests throughout the Bahanas and the Greater and Lesser Antilles. They are among the most endangered of the world's lizards, primarily because much of their fragile island habitat has been eliminated by human development or severely degraded by exotic species. The Jamaican iguana, considered by some to be the rarest lizard in the world, may number no more than 100 adults. Because iguanas are likely to be important seed dispersers for many endemic plants, their loss has serious consequences for the ecosystems in which they live. This plan summarizes the status of wild populations, identifies the primary threats, and recommends specific actions. A list of national agencies, research institutions in the countries of origin of taxa covered in the plan is included.

Iguanas

Iguanas
Author: Dr. Allison C. Alberts
Publisher: Univ of California Press
Total Pages: 374
Release: 2004-03-03
Genre: Science
ISBN: 0520930118

In what is certain to be the key reference on iguanas for years to come, some of the world's leading experts offer a clear and accessible account of the latest research on the evolution, behavioral ecology, and conservation of these highly visible and increasingly endangered creatures, much loved by professional herpetologists and hobbyists alike. The book begins with an introduction by noted iguana biologist Dr. Gordon Burghardt that examines the state of iguana research—past, present, and future—with an emphasis on social behavior. Three major sections follow, each opening with a synthesis by the volume editors, who survey the current status and likely future direction of investigations in the pertinent area. The first section focuses on different aspects of the taxonomic and morphological diversity of iguanas and includes a complete checklist of species. In the second section, contributors address the behavior and ecology of iguanas and provide compelling evidence that both may be far more complex than previously appreciated. The third and final section, highlighting the threats facing iguana populations today, describes the broad array of innovative conservation strategies that will be needed to help ensure their survival. Illustrated throughout with photographs, distribution maps, tables, and figures, this volume will be the definitive resource for anyone—professional or curious amateur—interested in iguanas.

Iguanas of the World

Iguanas of the World
Author: Gordon M. Burghardt
Publisher: William Andrew Inc.
Total Pages: 472
Release: 1982
Genre: Nature
ISBN: 9780815509172

Iguanas are large, primeval-appearing animals that have always attracted considerable attention and scientific study. The 30 species of iguanas are today collectively referred to as iguanines, or the subfamily Iguaninae, of the lizard family Iguanidae. This book is the result of a symposium of worldwide scientists on the world's iguanas that was held at a joint meeting of the Society of the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles and The Herpetologist's League. Over 30 recognized experts submitted their studies of these interesting reptiles, and have published what was once unknown and unpublished information. This book was a leader in its time and still serves as a wonderful reference for scientist and student alike.