Feb. 7, 2013 A recent study of the amphibians and reptiles of
Sierra Madre Mountain Range, northeastern Luzon, reveals a
preliminary enumeration of more than 100 species that contribute
to the unique biodiversity of the region. At present, the Luzon
region's herpetological range stands at more than 150 species.
Out of these, a total of 49 amphibian species have been
documented, 44 of which are native and a remarkable 32 endemic.
In the world of reptiles, Luzon can boast with 106 native
species, 76 of which are unique to this region. The catalogue
published in the open access journal Zookeys features a
fascinating range of reptiles and amphibians, such as the
beautifully coloured colubrid snake Hologerrhum philippinum,
which is one of the four endemic snake genera from the region
and can be recognized by the vibrant-yellow skin decoration.
Another species that provokes amazement is the bizarre soft-
shell turtle Pelochelys cantorii. The variety described in this
study includes fascinating frogs, crocodiles, sna