Project Update: September 2007
More Herpetofaunal Records:
A total of 51 species of Reptiles and Amphibians so far been identified from Barail Hill range. Some more species yet to be identified up to specific level and discussion among herpetological community is going on for their exact identity.
Significant findings:
• Microhyla butleri a microhylid frog, constitute first report from Assam state.
• A Dendralaphis sp. showed dissimilarity with all the known species of the genus known from India.
Natural History information:
• Important Ecological and biological information of Mabuya sp, Bungurus niger, Boiga cynea, Thakydromous sexliniatus were gathered.
Vegetation Analysis:
Field botanist Mr. Santanu Dey of Aaranyak analyzed the vegetation of present study area. He listed the plant species and identified the dominance index for plants. The data will be crucial information in analyzing the habitat of Barail Herpetofauna.
Outreach Activity:
• Stickers on Herpetofauna prepared and distributed among various target groups.
• The significant findings of Barail Herpetofauna project were included while presenting a paper on “Threatened tropical Herpetofauna of Northeast India and their conservation status” at the 21st Annual General conference (1st – 5th July 2007) of Society for Conservation Biologist held at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa.
• 5 number popular talks at fringe villages (Maruacherra and Barkhola) arranged and three slide shows (1 each at Assam State Zoo, Aarohan and Kaziranga National Park Interpretation Center) were completed.