Amphibians and Reptiles of the West Indies: Descriptions, Distributions, and Natural History

Abstract

This book summarizes all available information on Indian herpetofauna. Using data from more than 6000 pages of field notes and 1000 literature sources, Schwartz and Henderson present a detailed account of every known reptile and amphibian species existing on the numerous islands of the Indies. For each (almost 600), they offer a complete synopsis, including description, holotype, source of illustrations, and range map. A section on natural history summarizes what is known about the habitat, microhabitat, economic bearing, food habits, and reproduction of each animal, and in some cases it shows how these traits change from island to island. In opening remarks, the authors plead for awareness of the rampant environmental degradation taking place on the islands. For herpetologists, biologists, ecologists, and biogeographers with an interest in the Antillean biota, and should be important source for future research. Schwartz and Henderson have also written Guide to the Idenfification of the Amphibians and Reptiles of the Indies Exclusive of Hispaniola and West Indian Amphibians and Reptiles: A Check-List.