Species richness and dominance of reptiles in the aravalli foothills of Rajasthan

Abstract

The Aravalli Range is the line of demarcation in Rajasthan between the rain-fed and the rain-shadow areas. Thus, ecological conditions differ strongly between these areas. The foothill region is not a continuous range of hills but, rather, these occur scattered in the area. The occurrence of small and large boulders, numerous passages, large forests, barren land, and rivers has resulted in very diverse types of habitats for different species of reptiles. The present paper is based on surveys carried out during the years 2001-2004 in the Aravalli foothills of Rajasthan (from Sirohi to Beawar). Reptile species occur throughout the foothill region but can differ in abundance from site to site. Some species are found in all areas, whereas others are confined to particular areas. There are small pockets in which several species live together. By contrast, other pockets are largely dominated by a particular species, better adapted to environmental conditions in specific areas. The per cent dominance of the various species and the richness of a given species were determined. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2009. All rights reserved.