Amphibians and Reptiles of Southern Florida

Abstract

The 85 species of reptiles and amphibians known to occur in southern peninsular Florida and the Florida Keys are treated systematically. The discussion for each species includes data on variation, ecology, life history, habits, and distribution. The definition of geographic races in southern Florida has been accomplished only after extensive analyses of the variation encountered throughout the peninsula. The area of study is broken down into six major habitats; the distribution of the species in these habitats is analyzed. Ideas on the origin and relationships of the herpetofauna of southern Florida are assayed on the basis of a knowledge of the history of the peninsula and Florida Keys and on what is known of the relationships of the component species of the herpetofauna.