The snakes of the flooded region of Itaparica hydroeletric dam, Northeastern Brazil: “development” based on the drowning of wildlife

Abstract

The previously underestimated biodiversity of the Caatinga underwent a transformation with the emergence of new studies, intensifying interest in the biota of this complex dry forest. Studies on snakes from the Caatinga have increased recently, resulting in 112 recorded species. Contributing to this, we present a detailed list of 23 species rescued from the Itaparica reservoir implementation in the 1980s. Collected specimens are deposited in the Herpetological and Paleoherpetological Collection at the Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco. The recorded snake assemblage is typical of the dry Caatingas of the Sertaneja Depression. We discuss the impacts of flooding and specimen relocation without adequate planning or monitoring on snake diversity. Finally, we conclude by questioning the sustainability aspects of development and interventions in nature.