Lebanon, with its diverse landscapes ranging from coastal plains to rugged mountain ranges, harbors a rich but largely undocumented herpetofauna. Research by Hraoui-Bloquet, Sadek, Sindaco, and Venchi, published in Zoology in the Middle East (27, 2002: 35-46, ISSN 0939-7140, Kasparek Verlag, Heidelberg), has provided over 400 new records of amphibians and reptiles, shedding light on the distribution of these species across the country. The study represents a significant step toward updating Lebanon’s herpetofaunal checklist and understanding the country’s biodiversity.
Expanding Distributional Knowledge
Among the most intriguing findings is the new record of Cyrtopodion amictopholis, previously thought to be exclusive to Mount Hermon. This species was recently documented in the Mount Lebanon Range, marking an important range expansion. Similarly, Lacerta fraasii, formerly considered endemic to the Mount Lebanon Range, was also recorded in the Anti-Lebanon region, suggesting a broader distribution than previously assumed.
Another remarkable confirmation is the presence of Macrovipera lebetina, a species whose existence in Lebanon was uncertain. The study provides definitive records from two localities in the northern part of the country, solidifying its presence in the region. These findings highlight the need for further surveys to map species distributions more accurately and assess their conservation status.
A Rich but Understudied Fauna
The research compiled records from various sources, including museum collections, field observations, and historical literature. In total, five amphibian and 44 reptile species were documented, with many species previously known only from a handful of records. Species such as Triturus vittatus vittatus, the banded newt, were confirmed in several locations, including Beit Chebab, Bikfaiya, and Yahshoush, emphasizing their widespread but underreported presence.
The amphibian Salamandra infraimmaculata infraimmaculata, previously known from few published records, was found in various locations across the Mount Lebanon Range, with a significant record from Anti-Lebanon at En Nabi Chit. The green toad (Bufo viridis) and the tree frog (Hyla savignyi), both common species, were also reported from numerous locations, confirming their broad distribution.
Diversity of Reptilian Life
Lebanon’s diverse landscapes support a variety of reptilian species, including lizards, skinks, and snakes. The presence of Testudo graeca terrestris, the spur-thighed tortoise, was confirmed in areas such as the Nahr Ibrahim Valley and the sources of the Orontes River. The study also reaffirmed the widespread distribution of the starred agama (Laudakia stellio stellio), a common sight across Lebanon’s rocky terrains.
Among the more elusive lizards, Lacerta fraasii was recorded at high altitudes in both the Mount Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon ranges, suggesting a wider ecological adaptability. Similarly, Ophisops elegans, the snake-eyed lizard, was confirmed as a common species across various regions.
The study also provided significant records of Lebanon’s snake species. The coin-marked snake (Hemorrhois nummifer) and the large whip snake (Dolichophis jugularis) were found to be widespread. Additionally, the presence of the Palestine viper (Vipera palaestinae), a medically significant species, was confirmed in multiple locations, including Beirut, Shhim, and the Nahr Ibrahim Valley.
Implications for Conservation
The findings of this study underscore the urgent need for conservation efforts focused on Lebanon’s herpetofauna. Many species remain poorly studied, and habitat destruction due to urbanization, deforestation, and agricultural expansion poses a growing threat. The newly recorded range expansions suggest that several species may have broader ecological tolerances than previously thought, but they also highlight the importance of habitat preservation.
Understanding species distributions is crucial for designing effective conservation strategies. Protecting critical habitats, such as the cedar forests of Barouk and the wetlands of Ammiq, will help safeguard Lebanon’s amphibians and reptiles. Future research should focus on population assessments, ecological requirements, and potential threats to these species.
Conclusion
This comprehensive study represents a significant advancement in the documentation of Lebanon’s herpetofauna. With over 400 new distributional records, it provides a clearer picture of the country’s amphibian and reptile diversity. However, many gaps remain, and continued field research is essential for uncovering Lebanon’s full herpetological richness. By enhancing our knowledge and promoting conservation efforts, we can ensure that Lebanon’s unique and diverse reptilian and amphibian life continues to thrive for future generations.
