Reptile Residents of Chumbe

Gudmunson, Alanna

Publication

Reptile Residents of Chumbe

Gudmunson, Alanna

Description

Chumbe Island Coral Park (CHICOP) in Zanzibar, Tanzania is a remote island with a dense coral rag forest primarily untouched by humans and no permanent residence. This was the first scientific terrestrial reptile study conducted on the island. The survey started on April 9, 2017 and concluded on May 3, 2017 during a study abroad semester with the School for International Training (SIT). A variety of methods were used to survey the different microhabitats on the island. Line transects surveyed the forest walking paths and intertidal zones. Active searches were used in the compost heap. Refuge traps made of tin were placed in various locations. These heated up under the sun, providing great basking places. This study confirmed most of the known species recorded from informal observations, identified two new species (Hemidactylus mabouia and Lygodactylus luteopicturatus), and generated base line information about the reptile population densities. The results of this study updated the reptile species list for CHICOP, which may bolster support for future funds that will further the understanding of the flora and fauna.