PRELIMINARY DATA ON SPECIES DIVERSITY OF AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES (EXCLUDING SNAKES) FROM PANVEL, NAVI MUMBAI, INDIA

In this study, the impact of over-exploitation of natural resources on diversity of amphibians and reptiles in adjoining areas of Panvel, Navi Mumbai was assessed. The present work was carried out for one year (from June 2019 to May 2020). The results showed that a total of 26 species of amphibians and reptiles belonging to 16 genera and 12 families were recorded. Varied diversity of amphibians with 8 species representing 6 genera and 4 families were observed. Species diversity of reptile reveals 18 species representing 10 genera and 8 families. Turtles and tortoises were represented by 7 species belonging to 4 genera and 3 families. Study results indicates that coastal ecosystem of area adjoining Panvel is dominated by species of Polypedates maculatus, P. occidentalis and Pseudophilautus amboli followed by Duttaphrynus melanostictus, Ghatophryne rubigina, Hoplobatrachus crassus and H. tigerinus. High diversity of tree frogs and bullfrogs is correlated to the few landscapes with thick vegetation, suitable habitat and optimum rainfall in the study area. It can be concluded that over-exploitation of natural resources in Panvel region due to ongoing construction of Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) are the key factors affecting the diversity of amphibians and reptiles. Mortality of amphibians and reptiles is due to lack of awareness regarding ecological role of amphibians and reptiles and fear of snake bite is noted. It is recommended to create awareness among general public about role of amphibians and reptiles and sustainable utilization of natural resources. Since no earlier reports are available, data presented here can be taken as a baseline data.