Identificación y establecimiento de rutas herpetológicas nocturnas como una nueva alternativa de ecoturismo en sectores estratégicos del cantón Gualaquiza, Morona Santiago-Ecuador

Abstract

Abstract: The use of wildlife for sustainable use purposes in the tourism sector is increasingly promoted around the world. This study addressed the identification and establishment of herpetological routes in the Gualaquiza canton, Morona Santiago province, Ecuador. Through a review of secondary information and field visits, three herpetological routes were established, and 18 species of herpetofauna were recorded: 13 species of amphibians and five species of reptiles. These routes include El Gato Botanical Garden with 13 species registered, San Francisco Water Intake with 12 species, and Yumaza Alto Water Intake with 10 species. Simultaneously, georeferenced maps were created for each route, which can be used with the free app Avenza Maps. A poster of the amphibian and reptile species present was also created for each route to facilitate visual identification. Threats were found along the routes, such as the presence of the American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus), and the agricultural and livestock expansion, which must be addressed from now on by the Gualaquiza Municipal Government.