Reptile Species of the Coastal Ecoregion of Eastern Africa: Richness, Distribution, and Conservation

Literature on the current status of the reptilian fauna of the coastal Eastern African ecoregion, including Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Mozambique, is limited. This study therefore reviews reptilian species richness, composition, and conservation status along the region. It is assumed that reptilian species richness, composition, and endemism vary between the countries due to extensive latitudinal gradients. Furthermore, the study assesses the conservation status of the reptiles that occur in the region. The study reveals 293 species including one crocodile, 16 testudines, and 276 squamates. Of the 293 species, 79 (27% of the species) are endemic to the region, with coastal Tanzania having the highest numbers (26 species), followed by Somalia with 13 species, Mozambique with six species, and coastal Kenya with five species. The threat status categories set by the International Union for Conservation of Nature identify two species that are Critically Endangered, four species that are Endangered, seven species that are Vulnerable, and five species that are Near Threatened. Habitat destruction is one of the major threats to the species. This calls for best practices in conservation and management for the continued existence of the reptile species.