Species diversity and spatial distribution of snakes in Jigme Dorji National Park and adjoining areas, western Bhutan

Sonam Phuntsho,Bal Krishna Koirala,Dhan Bdr Gurung,Phurba Lhendup

doi:10.11609/jott.2617.8.12.9461-9466

Sonam Phuntsho, Bal Krishna Koirala + Show 2 more

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https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.2617.8.12.9461-9466

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Abstract

This paper presents the results of a study conducted on the diversity and spatial distribution of snakes along the elevation gradients of Mochu River valley in Jigme Dorji National Park and its adjoining areas. The survey was conducted from July–September 2014 and May–July 2015. The study aimed to assess the diversity and distribution of snakes using opportunistic the visual encounter survey technique. A total of 17 species of snakes belonging to 15 genera and three families were documented during the study period. More than 53% of species were recorded in the lower sampling sites (between 1,200–500 m) indicating more favourable climatic conditions and habitat types for snakes assemblages at lower elevations indicating the importance of protecting low land forest areas for the conservation of snakes in the Bhutanese mountain ecosystem.

Highlights

Bhutan’s diverse topography, different ecosystems ranging from sub-tropical forests to alpine meadows, altitudinal variations, and changing climatic conditions harbour a large variety of faunal elements
This paper presents the results of a study conducted on the diversity and spatial distribution of snakes along the elevation gradients of Mochu River valley in Jigme Dorji National Park and its adjoining areas
The present study revealed that diversity, observed species richness and abundance were

Summary

Introduction

Bhutan’s diverse topography, different ecosystems ranging from sub-tropical forests to alpine meadows, altitudinal variations, and changing climatic conditions harbour a large variety of faunal elements. Reptiles and amphibians sustain biodiversity by covering key roles in their ecosystems, utilizing both terrestrial and aquatic environments (Schneider et al 2001; McCallum 2007). They play an important role in the ecosystem as links in food webs, as predators and prey, bio-monitors in controlling insect pests and as excellent ecological indicators owing to their high degree of sensitivity to even a slight change in the environment (Lips 1998; Roy 2002; Daniels 2003). The reptiles of the kingdom of Bhutan have been poorly studied and few collections of Bhutanese reptiles have been made it has long history of rich

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Conclusion