Composition, Distribution Patterns, and Conservation Priority Areas for the Herpetofauna of the State of Ceará, Northeastern Brazil

Abstract. We provide an updated list of amphibians and reptiles of the state of Ceará, northeastern Brazil, with information on species distribution patterns and conservation priority areas. Data compilation based on information available in the literature, scientific collections, as well as original data resulted in a species list of 57 amphibians and 126 reptiles. The species Lygophis paucidens is recorded for the first time from Ceará. The herpetofauna of this state is predominantly typical of open areas (Cerrado and Caatinga biomes). However, species of Atlantic and Amazon Forests are also found, especially in higher-altitude areas covered by relict moist forests. Endemic species are also found in Ceará, some of them are still undescribed. These relict moist forests are phytoecological areas with high species richness of both amphibians and reptiles. Analysis of Key Biodiversity Areas indicated that the herpetofauna of Ceará has six endemic amphibian and six endemic reptile species, as well potentially threatened continental species, most of them are not found in protected areas. Our results suggest that the moist forests of Serra de Maranguape and Serra de Baturité should be made protected areas in order to protect their endemic herpetofauna. Finally, we strongly recommend the immediate creation of a Red List of threatened species of Ceará as a framework for conservation programmes focused on species at risk of extinction.