Vertebrates in the Red Data Book of Turkmenistan

Abstract

Among the 101 vertebrate species listed in the Red Data Book of Turkmenistan (1985), are 27 mammals, 35 birds, 30 reptiles, one amphibian, and eight fishes. Their distribution in Turkmenistan is given, with comments on their status as rare and endangered species, and with elements of their biology. Turkmenistan is inhabited by about one-third of the animal species listed in the Red Data Book of the former USSR; more than 11% of those species are found, within the territory of the former USSR, only in Turkmenistan. Means of effective conservation of rare species are discussed, including their protection in eight Natural Reserves (zapovedniki) of the Republic of Turkmenistan.