List of 100 most unique and endangered reptiles released

Zoological Society of London has released a list of the 100 Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered Reptiles.
Using a formula published in a PLOS ONE Study, each species receives a score that takes into account how evolutionarily unusual it is as well as its risk for extinction.
ZSL hopes these rankings will provide a scientifically rigorous and standardized method to assign conservation priority to vanishing species.

What do the world’s tiniest chameleon, a color-changing snake, and a turtle that breathes through its genitals have in common? Each of these reptiles sits perched on its own unique branch of life and, according to Zoological Society of London (ZSL), is headed for extinction unless urgent steps are taken for their protection.

The ZSL has released a list of 100 Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered Reptiles through its EDGE of Existence program. Using a formula published in a PLOS ONE Study, each species receives a score that takes into account how evolutionarily unusual it is as well as its risk for extinction. ZSL hopes these rankings will provide a scientifically rigorous and standardized method to assign conservation priority to vanishing species.

The worm-like Madagascar blind snake (Xenotyphlops grandidieri) has no use for eyes as it burrows through the forest floors of Madagascar. Photo by: Jörn Köhler courtesy of ZSL.

A juvenile Minute leaf chameleon (Brookesia micra) perches on a match head. This is the smallest chameleon in the world and is found exclusively in the forests of Madagascar. Photo by: Glaw et al

“When EDGE launched in 2007,” said EDGE of Existence Program Manager Nisha Owen, “our vision was to shine a light on those species that, if they were allowed to go extinct, would effectively take an entire branch of the Tree of Life with them.”

EDGE has published lists for mammals, birds, amphibians, and corals in the past and has partnered with other organizations to fund work at the frontlines of conservation. Beyond increasing awareness of these high priority life forms, EDGE and partners invest in early-career conservationists and conservation research, working with species from the pangolin to the Philippine Eagle.

“Reptiles often receive the short end of the stick in conservation terms, compared with the likes of birds and mammals,” said EDGE Reptiles co-ordinator Rikki Gumbs. “However, the EDGE Reptile List highlights just how unique, vulnerable and amazing these creatures really are. From the world’s largest sea turtles to a blind species of snake found only in Madagascar, the diversity of EDGE Reptiles is breath-taking.”

The color changing Round Island keel-scaled boa (Casarea dussumieri) is the last remaining member of its evolutionary family. Photo by: Nick Page courtesy of ZSL. — The color-changing Round Island keel-scaled boa (Casarea dussumieri) is the last remaining member of its evolutionary family. Photo by: Nick Page courtesy of ZSL.

The Gharial crocodile (Gavialis gangeticus) uses its slim snout for fishing. Photo by: Josh More courtesy of ZSL.

The largest turtle in the world, the Leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea) is the last of its phylogenetic family and Photo by: Hans Hillewaert courtesy of ZSL. — The largest turtle in the world, the Leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea) is the last of its phylogenetic family. Photo by: Hans Hillewaert courtesy of ZSL.

Breath-taking indeed. This top 100 list includes the charismatic, slick, and scaly likes of turtles, tortoises, geckos, lizards, snakes, chameleons, and crocodiles which demonstrate some unusual survival strategies. The #1 EDGE ranking Madagascan big-headed turtle (Erymnochelys madagascariensis) has large, golden plates which protect its big head; the Pig-nosed turtle (Carettochelys insculpta) uses its pig-like snout as a snorkel; and the Mary River turtle (Elusor macrurus) can breathe underwater for up to three days.

“Just as with tigers, rhinos and elephants, it is vital we do our utmost to save these unique and too often overlooked animals,” said Gumbs.

“Many EDGE Reptiles are the sole survivors of ancient lineages, whose branches of the Tree of Life stretch back to the age of the dinosaurs. If we lose these species there will be nothing like them left on Earth,” Gumbs continued. “We also hope to bring the plight of these weird and wonderful creatures to the public’s attention before they disappear.”