Amphibians and Reptiles at the Ometepe and La Suerte Field Sites: Toward an Overview of the Evolution, Diversity, and Natural History of Central America’s Herpetofauna

Abstract

Amphibians and reptiles are quite fascinating creatures. An attempt to portray their full diversity in the New World tropics is similar in scope to describing all the tropical fish of the Great Barrier Reef; sure, they exist elsewhere, but their presence here is quite remarkable. On display for virtually everyone to see, these animals flourish in an endless variety of niche habitats. Central America, therefore, is a rather ideal setting to explore an interest in herpetology, the study of amphibians and reptiles (known collectively as herpetofauna or “herps”). For a better understanding of these unique creatures, this chapter discusses their evolutionary past (mostly in the tropics) and then shifts focus to those species most likely to be encountered at the Ometepe and La Suerte field stations. It provides in detail their diversity and natural history throughout Central America. Finally, due to its relevance, this chapter serves as an introduction to the vast conservation issues pertaining to amphibians and reptiles (as featured specifically in subsequent chapters).