Herpetofauna do Maciço de Uruburetama, Ceará – Brasil: um brejo de altitude negligenciado

Abstract

The Uruburetama Massif is a humid forest enclave located in the state of Ceará, Brazil, within the Caatinga Domain. The characteristics of these environments, however, set them apart from the surrounding area as exceptional zones, exhibiting high humidity, amidst the semi-arid region. This contrast, stemming from influences of the Atlantic Forest and the Amazon and maintained due to its topography, has turned these enclaves into a refuge for various species, but also targets of intense exploitation and degradation. However, when compared to other enclaves, few studies have been conducted in the Uruburetama Massif, with most research focusing on those with larger areas, better preservation or closer to large urban centers. To foster conservation efforts in the region and stimulate awareness of the local biogeography, a survey of herpetofauna species present in the region was conducted through consultations in online platforms and scientific collections, collaboration with local public institutions and fieldwork via active search. A total of 55 species were identified, of which 21 are amphibians and 34 reptiles. Besides the confirmed presence of endemic species from the humid enclaves of Ceará, such as Adelophryne baturitensis and Pristimantis relictus, noteworthy findings include the snakes Apostolepis thalesdelemai, a threatened species endemic to the humid enclaves of Ceará, and Micrurus paraensis, a typically Amazonian species, with this being its first record in the state of Ceará. The Uruburetama Massif, despite being considered a priority area for conservation, faces serious environmental risks, reiterating the urgency in the creation of new conservation units for the locality.