Browsing by Author "Jayasuriya, R. T. P."

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    Assessing the diversity and conservation needs of order Squamata in Mandaramnuwara, Sri Lanka
    (Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya Sri Lanka, 2024) Rajarathna, M. D. G. H. A.; Gunawardena, M. P.; Wijegunawardhana, A. H. C.; Jayaweera, C. L.; Sandamali, A. D. P. H.; Jayasuriya, R. T. P.; Hettiarachchi, C. J.
    Mandaramnuwara, is a village located on the eastern slopes of the Piduruthalagala mountain range in Sri Lanka. This area harbours significant faunal diversity yet lacks scientific studies on the diversity of the Order Squamata, which includes snakes and lizards. We conducted a visual encounter survey over a 15-month period from October 2022 to December 2023, aimed to document the diversity of Squamates in areas outside the protected zone, where these species face significant threats from human activities and vehicle movements. The total number of 15 visits (once a month) were carried out during daylight hours (07:00 h to 18:00 h) along a 10 km road (starting point 07.05861N, 080.76875E, ending point 07.04239N, 080.76155E), with an elevation gradient from 900 m to 1600 m, covering a five-meter span on both sides of the road. A total of 18 species belonging to six Families were recorded. Among these, 15 species, which is 83.33% of the total, were endemic, and 12 species which is 66.67% of the total, were nationally threatened. The threatened species included the critically endangered Cyrtodactylus fraenatus, the endangered Calotes nigrilabris, Cophotis ceylanica, Ceratophora stoddartii, Aspidura trachyprocta, Rhinophis blythii, Rhinophis melanogaster, and Hypnale nepa. Other threatened species recorded were the vulnerable Dendrelaphis caudolineolatus, Aspidura brachyorrhos, Aspidura ceylonensis, and Oligodon sublineatus. Additionally, two endemic species were near threatened: Calotes liolepis, Bungarus ceylonicus, and Ahaetulla nasuta, which is of least concern. Observations noted seven instances of road kills, affecting both snake and lizard populations. Given the high level of endemism and the presence of numerous threatened species, it is crucial to raise awareness within the local community to mitigate unnecessary fears and killings, particularly of snakes. In conclusion, the findings of this survey highlight the critical need for targeted conservation efforts in Mandaramnuwara. By raising awareness and integrating the local community into conservation initiatives, the area can be effectively preserved while promoting sustainable tourism. The documentation of Squamata diversity in this region emphasises the importance of continued research and conservation strategies to protect its biodiversity.