Composition and natural history of snakes from Zona da Mata in Rondonia, southwestern brazilian Amazon

Abstract

This study presents an account on the snake assemblage and its natural history in the state of Rondônia. Data collection was carried out between January and December 2018. The surveys were done through time constrained searches, pitfall traps, and occasional encounters. A total of 155 snakes corresponding to 60 species were recorded, of which 12 species were registered for the first time in the Zona da Mata region, including new records for the state of Rondônia (Lygophis meridionalis and Atractus pantostictus). The most abundant species was the Common Lancehead (Bothrops atrox). Active snakes were most frequently observed on the ground (63.22%). Lizards were the nost frequent prey consumed by snakes (45% of species). Snake richness can still be considered underestimated, highlighting the need of new studies.