herpetological diversity of Maharashtra ?

Hii,

As we all know that herpetological diversity is mainly done to save our reptile faunal diversityr, eptiles are one of the most important creatures of the animal kingdom and evolutionarily linked between amphibians and birds. They also play an important role in the food chain as a predator and prey for the other animals (birds). They are a voracious feeder of insect pests and other small mammals (Rodents) and keep the population of insect pests and no insect pests under check and balance nature. The reptiles are including crocodiles, alligators, skinks, lizards, snakes, pythons and turtles live in the varied habitat The Vidarbha region classified biogeographically as the Central Deccan Plateau and covers the districts of Amravati, Washim, and Yavatmal. Topographically, the region is flat undulating terrain, devoid of any major hill ranges. The Satpura Range lies to the North of Vidarbha. The Melghat hills of Amravati district form the southern offshoot of the Satpura Range. The region has three main seasons: the wet monsoon and post-monsoon season from June to October, the cool dry winter from October to March and the hot dry season from April till the onset of rains at the beginning of June. The forest types found in this area are classified as sub-tropical hill forests, tropical moist deciduous forests, and tropical dry deciduous forests. The Reptile fauna of 'Vidarbha' was investigated during the year March 2002 to December 2013. Random surveys were carried out in all forest areas as well as urban areas of Vidarbha. A total of 68 species of reptiles belonging to 16 families were recorded. Most reptiles recorded belong to the family Colubridae (11), followed by Geckonidae (09), Scincidae (05). Three species were recorded from Boidae and Agamidae. Two species were recorded from Lacertidae and Typhlopidae. One species was recorded from family Varanidae, Eublepharidae, Chameleonidae and Pythoniade. The important record of, Geckoella nebulosus, Ophisops become, coleognathus helena monticollaris, Antretium schistosum, Corronella branchyuria. In recent years it has been observed that the populations of reptiles are declining due to a number of reasons, such as destruction of forest areas, habitat loss, illegal trades for skins and flesh, poaching, anthropogenic pressure and roadkill by heavy traffic further adds to this loss. It is needed to save our reptile faunal diversity by taking all the possible protection measures.

Hope this helps.