Completeness of the amphibian inventory of Nayarit, Mexico, assessed from biodiversity information system records

Abstract

ABSTRACT Climate change, diseases, pollution, and land cover changes threaten amphibian species worldwide, making identifying and monitoring these species crucial for the conservation of biodiversity. Nayarit, which is located in northwestern Mexico and within the Mexican Transition Zone and Neotropical biogeographic regions, hosts high amphibian diversity. However, information on the completeness of the amphibian inventory of Nayarit is lacking. Thus, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the inventory completeness of Nayarit using open-access biodiversity information systems. We constructed a database from the information stored in the Mexican National Biodiversity Information System (SNIB) of the National Commission for the Knowledge and Use of Biodiversity (CONABIO). Inventory completeness was analysed in 10-km cells and various periods, considering biogeographic and physiographic regions. Areas with high inventory completeness were defined by their proximity to the main communication routes rather than biophysical reasons. Approximately half of the state exhibited information gaps, especially in the mountainous and difficult-to-access areas. Additional studies are needed to fully document amphibian diversity in Nayarit, especially in geographical regions with few records. Our results provide a solid foundation for future research and are essential for adequately conserving and managing the natural resources of Nayarit.