Herpetofaunal Species Research Articles

Five new species of the pelodryadid genus Litoria Tschudi from the southern versant of Papua New Guinea’s Central Cordillera, with observations on the diversification of reproductive strategies in Melanesian treefrogs

New Guinea has the most diverse insular frog fauna in the world, and rates of species discovery and description have increased rapidly in the last two decades. Pelodryadid treefrogs are the second most diverse family of anurans on the island but their taxonomy, relationships, and especially ecology remain poorly documented. Based on differences in morphology, advertisement calls (where available) and phylogenetic analyses of a 787 base pair alignment from the mitochondrial ND4 gene and flanking tRNA, we describe five new species of small treefrogs from hill and lower montane forests in the high rainfall belt that straddles the southern versant of Papua New Guinea's Central Cordillera. Three of these species are known only from forest growing on karst substrates, adding to the growing number of herpetofauna species currently known only from the extensive karst habitats of Papua New Guinea's South-fold Mountains. We also describe the arboreal breeding strategies of two of the new species, and report obligate treehole (phytotelm) breeding in New Guinean frogs for the first time. The new phytotelm-breeding species has juveniles with colour and patterning that closely resemble bird droppings, suggesting defensive mimicry or masquerade. A preliminary phylogeny suggests that arboreal-breeding frogs do not form a monophyletic group and that arboreal breeding has evolved multiple times within the New Guinean pelodryadid radiation. A further striking feature of the phylogeny is poor support for most basal nodes in the most diverse radiation of Melanesian Pelodryadidae, suggesting rapid ecological diversification and speciation, potentially following colonisation from Australia and/or mountain uplift. These new taxa and observations highlight previously unrecognised ecological and reproductive diversity in the Melanesian Pelodryadidae.

Spatiotemporal Patterns and Road Mortality Hotspots of Herpetofauna on a Mediterranean Island

Traffic intensification, often in conjunction with habitat fragmentation, has caused frequent roadkill incidents, particularly among reptiles, amphibians, and other taxa. Herpetofauna species, which are slow moving and habitat dependent, are particularly susceptible to these incidents because they often use roads during thermoregulation. Lesvos, the eighth-largest Mediterranean island, boasts a biodiversity that surpasses most other Mediterranean islands of similar or larger size, with a plethora of herpetofauna species inhabiting its terrain. In recent years, new roads were constructed on Lesvos, which are considered to be one of the most important factors that negatively affect the island’s wildlife as they increase the non-natural mortality of animals, are obstacles to their mobility, and reduce the connectivity of populations by limiting their dynamics. In the present study, we examined the road mortality of amphibians and reptiles by analyzing (a) the temporal and seasonal patterns of such incidents, (b) the relationship between roadside habitats and road network characteristics with the roadkilled herpetofauna species, and (c) their spatial distribution on Lesvos during the years 2009–2012 and 2016–2019. To identify significant clusters of reptile and amphibian roadkills, we performed hotspot analysis by utilizing kernel density estimation and Getis Ord Gi* statistics. We recorded a total of 330 roadkills among 20 species, with the highest rates emerging among the European green toad (Bufotes viridis), the European glass lizard (Pseudopus apodus), the Rhodos green lizard (Lacerta diplochondrodes), and the snake-eyed lizard (Ophisops elegans). Spatial statistical analysis revealed that roads close to herpetofauna habitats exhibit statistically significant clusters of roadkills that intensify during the spring season. Regular monitoring and mapping of herpetofauna road mortality will enable the implementation of management strategies to mitigate the negative impact of this phenomenon.

Updated checklist of snakes with the first record of Spalerosophis arenarius in Gujarat and range extensions of five fpecies of snakes in the northern region of Gujarat, India

A complete checklist of herpetofaunal species is required in order to understand species richness and distribution, especially of reptiles. India has a total of 279 snake species, whereas Gujarat only has 60, leaving many opportunities for researchers to further investigate snake diversity in the state. The purpose of this study is to explore snake diversity in the northern region of Gujarat state, a region which comprises five districts, including four protected habitats. The data was collected through surveying forested habitat, examining road kills, and collecting rescue data from volunteers. The study recorded a total of 33 species from seven families showing a high diversity of snake species in the study area. Among them, Spalerosophis arenarius (Boulenger, 1890) was recorded for the first time in the state. With 22 species, Colubridae is the most commonly occurring snake family of the area. North Gujarat has a rich diversity of snakes and we suggest more detailed research on snake diversity and distribution in the future.

Global Protected Areas as refuges for amphibians and reptiles under climate change

Protected Areas (PAs) are the cornerstone of biodiversity conservation. Here, we collated distributional data for >14,000 (~70% of) species of amphibians and reptiles (herpetofauna) to perform a global assessment of the conservation effectiveness of PAs using species distribution models. Our analyses reveal that >91% of herpetofauna species are currently distributed in PAs, and that this proportion will remain unaltered under future climate change. Indeed, loss of species’ distributional ranges will be lower inside PAs than outside them. Therefore, the proportion of effectively protected species is predicted to increase. However, over 7.8% of species currently occur outside PAs, and large spatial conservation gaps remain, mainly across tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, and across non-high-income countries. We also predict that more than 300 amphibian and 500 reptile species may go extinct under climate change over the course of the ongoing century. Our study highlights the importance of PAs in providing herpetofauna with refuge from climate change, and suggests ways to optimize PAs to better conserve biodiversity worldwide.

Species diversity of herpetofauna in bat cave area, indarung village, lubuk kilangan district, padang city

Bat Cave is a new tourist attraction located in Indarung Village, Lubuk Kilangan District, Padang City. Changes in habitat will affect the fauna in it, especially the herpetofauna, because herpetofauna is very sensitive to environmental changes. Herpetofauna research in this area has never been done. The research was conducted in December 2022, the observation method used was the transect method combined with the VES (Visual Encounter Survey). The purpose of this study was to determine the diversity of herpetofauna species in the Bat Cave area. Based on the research, nine types of herpetofauna were found, consisting of six types of amphibians and three types of reptiles. Total number of individuals obtained was 57 individuals. The most common type found was Limnonectes blythii, namely 23 individuals. In this study, one individual was found endemic to West Sumatra, namely Ichthyophis elongatus. Based on the research conducted, the diversity of herpetofauna species in the Bat Cave area is low.

Trends in the Transition of Alien Herpetofauna Species to the Status of Invasive in the Krasnodar Kray

For the first time, a record of Italian Wall Lizard Podarcis siculus (Rafinesque-Schmaltz, 1810) in Krasnodar is noted. The origin of this lizard, presumably, is associated with the importation of large-sized planting material. In addition, for the first time, reproduction of Red-eared Slider, Trachemys scripta elegans (Wied-Neuwied, 1839), in the nature was revealed near Sochi; the data from the moment of oviposition to the emergence of newborns from nesting chambers were collected. The size and color characteristics of T. scripta found in Sochi are described. Active resettlement allowed T. scripta to occupy the entire Imeretinskaya Lowland and the valley of the lower reaches of the Psou River. Monitoring of Podarcis siculus in the environs of Sochi indicates an increase in the range by almost eight times, with a modern habitat area of 200.6 ha. The high population density and a large number of young individuals clearly show the transition of the species from alien to invasive status. A new find in November 2021 of Mediterranean House Gecko, Hemidactylus turcicus (Linnaeus, 1758) indicates the strengthening of this exotic animal in the resort and a slight expansion of the range, about 1 km east of the initial record in Sochi. All of the listed species are, to varying degrees, synanthropic, what also contributes to their active distribution in the region.

Keeping an eye on small herpetofauna species from the Caatinga, northeastern Brazil: predation by Nystalus maculatus (Aves: Bucconidae) on frogs, lizards, and snakes

Keeping an eye on small herpetofauna species from the Caatinga, northeastern Brazil: predation by Nystalus maculatus (Aves: Bucconidae) on frogs, lizards, and snakes

Records of common species of amphibians and reptiles widespread in northern, central, western and southern Ukraine.

The dataset includes records of amphibian and reptile species from northern, central, western and southern Ukraine made by Ukrainian herpetologist O. D. Nekrasova during her field trips in the period from 1996 to 2022. Chosen species were not included in the latest published edition of the Red Data Book of Ukraine (2009) and in the latest lists of such species prepared in 2019. The species mentioned in this dataset are characterised by wide range within the country, covering more than 70% of its territory according to spatial distribution modelling (GIS-modelling) made with the help of Maxent software. The dataset highlights records of eight common species of herpetofauna of Ukraine collected by the first author for the last 26 years. Within the period from 1996 to 2022, O. D. Nekrasova collected and studied information and material on the herpetofauna of the northern, central, western and southern parts of Ukraine from a total of 3960 cadastral points (1707 - for three species of reptiles and 2253 - for five species of amphibians). These records, being now available for the international scientific community, will fill the gap in updated records of the mentioned species, being potentially useful for GIS-modelling, distribution modelling, clarification of conservation lists of national and local importance, further assessment of impact of the war on native biota etc.

Herpetofauna surveys at CFS ecological corridor (J-PL2: Panti Forest Reserve-Ulu Sedili Forest Reserve), Johor, Malaysia

Herpetological surveys were conducted at Panti Forest Reserve and Ulu Sedili Forest Reserve of Johor in March and April 2019. These forest reserves are identified as one of the designated primary linkages under the Central Forest Spine (CFS) Masterplan, named as J-PL2 or previously known as CFSII PL3. The objective of the study is to document updated list of herpetofauna species recorded at the J-PL2. During this study, onehectare study plot was established at Panti Forest Reserve and Ulu Sedili Forest Reserve, respectively. Each study plot was equipped with 10 transect lines. A total of 25 pitfall traps were deployed at each study plot. These traps were set for five consecutive nights per session, with a total of two sampling sessions per site. In addition, active search was also conducted for a minimum of two hours at each site during every sampling session. As a result, a total of 30 individuals comprising of 13 species of herpetofauna were recorded at J-PL2. Panti Forest Reserve harbour highest number of herpetofauna with nine species (five families) followed by Ulu Sedili Forest Reserve with six species (five families). Amphibians was the most species captured in Panti Forest Reserve with six species, whilst the number of species recorded for both amphibians and reptiles at Ulu Sedili was similar with three species. Furthermore, five species of the herpetofauna representing by one amphibian and four reptiles are new additional recorded herpetofauna species when compared to a compilation of previously listed species at both forest reserves. Pelobatrachus nasutus, Draco haematopogon and Naja sumatrana are among the latest species recorded through this study. Referring to this information, hopefully the significance of J-PL2 as an important shelter for various herpetofauna species could be reflected and proper conservation actions must be undertaken to protect and sustain their population.

Vertebrates of Resak (Tambahan) Forest Reserve and Its Adjacent Area, Pahang

Southeast Pahang Peat Swamp Forest (SEPPSF) covers four forest reserves (FRs) namely Pekan FR, Nenasi FR, Kedondong FR and Resak FR. Previously, 204 species of birds, 56 species of mammals, and 47 species of herpetofauna have been recorded at SEPPSF. Recently, a rapid assessment using binoculars was carried out for two days from 18-19 May 2023 covering Resak (Tambahan) FR and its adjacent areas including oil palm plantations and Rompin town. A total of 52 species of birds from 25 families and one species of reptile were recorded. Of these, 36 species are classified as Totally Protected while eight species are Protected species according to Wildlife Conservation Act 2010. There are four Vulnerable (VU) species that were recorded namely Black Hornbill, Lesser Adjutant, Large Green-Pigeon, and Javan Myna. This result indicates a “snapshot” of vertebrates of the forest complex due to the short duration of the survey. Therefore, more intensive survey is needed to update the dynamics of the wildlife community in this area.

Abundance and diversity of herpetofauna population of Korapuzha Estuary, India: A transitioning shoreline ecosystem

A comprehensive assessment of the Korapuzha Estuary's herpetofauna species diversity was done from September 2018 to September 2019. Amphibians and reptiles were spotted along a terrestrial stretch using active searching; call survey; road-kill analysis and direct observation (opportunistic spotting). The findings reveal 16 species of reptiles from 11 families and 1 amphibian. The Indian Skipper Frog is the sole amphibian that has been identified. 4 species of the order Testudines and 12 species of the order Squamata were identified among all the reptiles. The Common Indian Monitor, garden lizard, Indian Cobra, Oriental Ratsnake, and Indian Black Turtle, were the most frequently seen reptiles. The banded Krait (Bungarus fasciatus) was recorded for the first time in Kerala's marshes. Pelochelys cantorii (Cantor's Giant Softshell), a species of reptile fauna, is listed on IUCN redlist as a critically endangered species. The frequency of herpetofauna is significantly limited owing to the region's close vicinity to the ocean, which prevents taxa from dispersing despite the fact that these organisms are difficult to locate due to their paradoxical activities.

Keragaman Jenis Herpetofauna di Kawasan Hutan Kota Ranggawulung Kota Subang

Ranggawulung City Forest is a Green Open Space (RTH) located in Subang City. As one of the remaining forests in the middle of an urban area, this urban forest has great potential as a location for biodiversity management. This research was conducted to determine the value of biodiversity, especially herpetofauna in Ranggawulung City Forest, Subang City as an indicator for evaluating the success of environmental management in the future. This study uses the Visual Encounter Survey (VES) method modified with Time Search. The herpetofauna diversity (H') in general observed in the Ranggawulung City Forest was 2.59 in the HKR block, and 2.34 in the Buper block. The value of species richness (Dmg) in each block is 4.41 and 3.40. The two areas are relatively evenly distributed with an evenness value of more than 80%. There were no nationally protected species of herpetofauna, two of which were species whose trade was restricted internationally and were included in the CITES Appendix II category.

Determinants of Herpetofaunal Diversity in a Threatened Wetland Ecosystem: A Case Study of the Ramaroshan Wetland Complex, Western Nepal.

Wetlands are among the highly threatened ecosystems due to anthropogenic activities. The Ramaroshan Wetland Complex (RWC) of Achham District, Nepal is one of the high-altitude wetlands facing human induced degradation and loss. Herpetofauna are key bio-indicators of environmental health and habitat quality and are useful to assess habitat conditions of such threatened ecosystems. This study quantified the land use and land cover (LULC) change in the RWC and documented the diversity and distribution pattern of herpetofauna. The LULC in the area (13.94 Km2) was analyzed for 1989, 2000, 2010 and 2021 by supervised classification of remote sensing images. Surveys were conducted along 25 transects, each of 200 m in length and environmental variables were recorded for every observation of herpetofauna. The LULC analysis revealed an overall loss of 16% of the total water body between 1989 (0.25 Km2) and 2021 (0.21 Km2). Eleven species of herpetofauna (five amphibians and six reptiles) within five families and two orders (i.e., Anura and Squamata), were recorded with low diversity (H' = 1.88312) and evenness (E = 0.3642) indices. The herpetofauna had a hump-shaped distribution along the elevation gradient with the highest richness and abundance at 2300 m asl. Amphibian abundance decreased with increasing distance to nearest water sources, whereas reptile abundance increased. Amphibians were more abundant in agricultural field and marsh land, whereas reptile abundance was higher around human settlements. Results indicate that the wetland area in the RWC is declining at an alarming rate and, in turn, might account for the low diversity and abundance of the herpetofauna.

Genetically derived effective population size estimates of herpetofaunal species should be used with caution

AbstractEffective population size (NE) is an important parameter for conservation of threatened wildlife. Current estimators of NE that use genetic data, however, may not be equally useful among taxa that are difficult to sample, such as cryptic, iteroparous, long‐lived herpetofauna. To better understand the use of NE estimators for such taxa, we generated and compared contemporary NE estimates to evaluate methods, repeatability, and the effects of sample size at management scales and functional genetic population scales for the eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina) and eastern hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis). We chose these 2 species for their differing dispersal abilities, reproductive variances, and natural history traits, which may be useful in exploring the weaknesses and strengths of NE estimators. We collected species‐specific microsatellite genotypes from 2,712 individuals (1,133 hellbenders, 1,579 box turtles) in 2007–2011 from across their ranges in the eastern United States. We then grouped samples into range‐wide genetic clusters, state‐level management populations, and small regional management populations (e.g., state parks). We also randomly subsampled (rarefied) from these 3 categories to explore the effects of reduced sampling effort on NE estimates. We used 4 popular estimators: NEESTIMATOR (linkage disequilibrium and heterozygote excess methods), LDNE, and ONESAMP. Over half of all attempts at estimating NE failed to give complete estimates (those that included only non‐negative and non‐infinity values). There was variation between species but also among estimators. Repeated sampling of genetic populations resulted in inconsistent results, and estimates generally increased with sample size. The linkage disequilibrium version of NEESTIMATOR returned the largest percentage (95.8%) of complete estimates. Program ONESAMP obtained complete estimates for 62.0% of attempts and generally provided the numerically largest estimates. Only 19.4% of LDNE estimates and none of the heterozygote excess version of NEESTIMATOR estimates were complete. Generally, NE estimates were higher for box turtles, perhaps because of their greater dispersal capabilities, historically larger populations, and longer lifespans. Our results suggest that estimates of NE for long‐lived herpetofauna species vary according to species, sample size, genetic cluster, management population, and estimator used. Therefore, we recommend managers of populations of long‐lived herpetofaunal species use NE estimators with caution, and consider results from multiple methods before incorporating NE into management practice.

Diversity amphibians and reptiles at Sungai Kerteh mangrove forest, Terengganu, Malaysia

Abstract. Zakaria N, Allahudin MIH, Ma’ad SNS, Sulaiman AA, Abdullah NA, Zamri MIM, Mamat MA, Deraman MY. 2022. Diversity amphibians and reptiles at Sungai Kerteh mangrove forest, Terengganu, Malaysia. Biodiversitas 23: 5574-5584. Malaysia has various ecosystems, including mangrove forests, that can support a rich number of amphibians and reptiles. However, amphibians and reptiles remain understudied, especially in mangrove forests. The main objective of this study was to determine the diversity of amphibians and reptiles in the mangrove forest of Sungai Kerteh. The sampling was conducted from 19th until 21st August 2019 by using the Visual Encounter Survey (VES) method along 2 km2 area of Sungai Kerteh. A total of 53 individuals were recorded belonging to 12 species (5 amphibian species and 7 reptile species). For amphibians, three families were recorded, with the family Dicroglossidae being the most abundant, with 13 individuals. For reptiles, eight families were recorded with the family Agamidae being the most abundant with 18 individuals. Fejervarya cancrivora (11 individuals; Family Dicroglossidae) was the most abundant amphibian species, while Leiolepis belliana (14 individuals; Family Agamidae) was the most abundant reptile species. There was no significant difference between the diversity of reptiles (H’: 1.6975) and amphibians (H’: 1.2643) (t: -1.6835, p>0.05). This study provides the first checklist of amphibians and reptiles species that will be helpful in identifying existing herpetofauna species and possible endangered or rare species in the Sungai Kerteh mangrove forest, which will help contribute to the conservation efforts of the herpetofauna in this area.

Herpetological diversity in Calakmul, Campeche, Mexico: species list with new distribution notes

The herpetofauna occurring in the Selva Maya is one of the richest assemblages in the Americas. We herein provide an updated list of herpetofauna species for the Calakmul region, located in the southern Yucatán Peninsula, Campeche, Mexico. This species list was compiled considering the results of herpetological surveys conducted between 2015-2019 in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, information gathered from previous literature, and sighting records from the website iNaturalist. All this information combined resulted in the identification of 109 species, 23 amphibians and 86 reptiles, belonging to 34 families. Furthermore, we hereby present new distribution records for 7 snakes, 2 lizards and 2 frogs not previously observed in the study region. Approximately 38% (n = 41) of the herpetofauna species are listed under a threat category by the environmental Mexican legislation (NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010). The list presented in this study increases to 109 the number of species known to occur in the Calakmul region, and to 135 in Campeche, which therefore becomes the Mexican state of the Yucatán Peninsula with the highest herpetofauna diversity, followed by Quintana Roo with 133 species.

Annotated Checklist of Small Terrestrial Vertebrates at CFSII SL7 Ecological Corridor: Angsi Forest Reserve-Berembun Forest Reserve in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia.

Surveys of small terrestrial vertebrates were conducted at identified Central Forest Spine (CFS) ecological corridor named CFSII SL7 (Secondary Linkage-7) involving Angsi Forest Reserve and Berembun Forest Reserve in Negeri Sembilan. The surveys were conducted in February, April, and September 2018. The main objective of these surveys is to update the checklist of small vertebrate species recorded in the corridor. Three plots were established, two located in Berembun FR, referred to as Berembun FR I and Berembun FR II, while one located at Angsi FR. A total of 100 collapsible cage traps, three harp traps, 10 mist nets, and 25 pitfall traps were deployed at each site. These traps were set for five consecutive nights per session, with two sampling sessions per site. In addition, direct observations and active searches were also conducted for arboreal species and herpetofauna respectively. A total of 326 individuals comprising 26 species of small mammals (eight families), 43 species of avifauna (19 families), and 22 species of herpetofauna (10 families) were recorded during the surveys. Berembun FR I harbor the highest number of small vertebrates (50 species), followed by Angsi FR and Berembun FR II with 43 and 39 species, respectively. In addition, 39 of the overall documented species are additionally recorded as small vertebrates compared to a compilation of previously listed species at both forest reserves. Through these results, it is hoped that the significance of these fragmented forests under CFSII SL7 as crucial habitats for small vertebrates can be further highlighted, and appropriate conservation measures must be taken to safeguard the small vertebrate population in these areas.

Threatened Herpetofauna: Important Information Towards Establishment of Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) in Perak

Target 9 in the National Policy on Biological Diversity elaborates on the prevention of known threatened species extinction, and their conservation status needs to be improved by 2025. Key Biodiversity Areas (KBA) is a comprehensive approach to conserving globally threatened species, including herpetofauna and their habitats. A site must meet the thresholds for at least one criterion to qualify as Key Biodiversity Area (KBA). This paper aims to demonstrate threatened herpetofauna information in Perak based on published literature according to International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classification. A total of 34 papers were accessed starting from 1977 until 2022. Of these, 14 threatened herpetofauna species were identified: Nanohyla annectens, Cyrtodactylus guakanthanensis, Cyrtodactylus jarakensis, Heosemys grandis, Batagur affinis, Manouria emys, Manouria impressa, Pelochelys cantorii, Cuora amboinensis, Heosemys spinosa, Siebenrockiella crassicollis, Amyda cartilaginea, Pseudocalotes larutensis, and Larutia larutensis. There was only 1.9% (1sp), and 11.4% (13spp) of the total number (166spp) of amphibians (52spp) and reptiles (114spp) were published, respectively. However, coordinates of the exact locations must be gathered to ensure spatial and temporal information can be developed to locate the habitat of threatened species. In short, studies on herpetofauna in Perak is still in need. At least, from this assessment, another step towards identifying KBA in Perak has been initiated and must be continued.

Impacts of pastures and forestry plantations on herpetofauna: A global meta‐analysis

Abstract The establishment of pastures and forestry plantations has increased globally to meet growing demands for meat and wood products. Pasture and plantation expansion often drives deforestation, which causes homogenization of biotic communities and is a major driver of the global extinction crisis. A core question is how the severity of losses varies between pastures and plantations, and in turn, how geographical location and plantation management characteristics moderate these impacts. Focusing on herpetofauna (amphibians and reptiles) as the most endangered vertebrate group, we performed a global synthesis using 41 scientific articles that reported species richness or abundance in pastures and forestry plantations relative to natural forest in 191 case studies among 19 countries. We found a severe negative effect of pasture and a less negative effect of forestry plantations on species richness and abundance of herpetofauna. Within plantations, species richness and total abundance were more negatively impacted in amphibians than reptiles, in the tropics, when planting exotic tree species, monocultures, large or commercial plantations, and when clearing understory vegetation. Yet mixed, old, small or conservation plantations and those permitting recovery of understory vegetation had no negative impacts relative to the reference natural forest. Synthesis and applications. The loss of herpetofauna species richness and abundance underscores the importance of halting ongoing tropical deforestation for pasture and intensive forestry plantations. The potential for appropriately managed forestry plantations to support biodiversity in regions lacking forest cover, including via replacement of anthropogenic pastures, suggests that such plantations have an important role under global reforestation agendas.

The establishment of ecological conservation for herpetofauna species in hotspot areas of South Korea

Understanding the geographic distribution of species is crucial for establishing protected areas. This study aimed to identify the preferred habitat environment of South Korean herpetofauna using distribution point information, providing the information necessary to protect their habitat by establishing a species distribution model. We found that climate variables in the region where 19 amphibians and 20 reptiles were distributed correlated with the altitude, suggesting that altitude had a major influence on their distribution. The species distribution modeling indicated that 10–12 amphibian and 13–16 reptile species inhabit the Gangwon-do region, forming hotspot areas in the eastern and western regions around the Taebaek Mountains. Some of these hotspot areas occurred in the Demilitarized Zone and national parks, which are government-managed ecological conservation areas. However, some hotspot areas are vulnerable to habitat destruction due to development and deforestation as they are not designated conservation areas. Therefore, it is necessary to establish new conservation areas with a focus on herpetofauna after confirming the actual inhabitation of species through precise monitoring in predicted hotspot areas and designating them as protected areas. Our results can serve as important basic data for establishing protection measures and designating protected areas for herpetofauna species.