Located north of the Amazon and more than 96% covered by a dense tropical forest, Guyana
French is a true paradise for herpetology enthusiasts.
Article and photographs by © Julien Clozeau / edited by Alex Chhor.

A little-known treasure of Guyana
Herpetology: is the branch of zoology which studies reptiles and amphibians. This scientific discipline looks at the biology, ecology, behavior, and evolution of these fascinating animals.
With 124 species of amphibians and 161 species of reptiles listed, this region is a biodiversity hotspot. Periods of rain, December to February and from April to July, reveal all the richness of this colorful and mysterious fauna.
However, this abundance hides a fragility that only rigorous management of ecosystems can
preserve.
Amphibians: Wonders of the rainforest
Anurans, bringing together frogs and toads, are jewels of Guyanese biodiversity. Among the The most emblematic species include Amazonian tree frogs, such as Phyllomedusa vaillantii, whose beauty is surpassed only by their unique biological characteristics. These creatures often have bright colors that serve to warn predators of their toxicity. For example, Dendrobates tinctorius, a species of dendrobate, is particularly fascinating not only for its color, but also for its use by Native Americans in traditional practices such as tapirage. This technique, which allows you to modify the color of bird feathers to make them prestigious ornaments, testifies to the deep interconnection between human culture and biodiversity local.
Other species, less known, are no less intriguing. The taurine osteocephalus (Osteocephalus taurinus) is known for its ability to secrete methamphetamine, a substance still little known studied but potentially revolutionary for future medical applications. On the side of the anurans more discreet, the Brazilian horned toad (Ceratophrys cornuta), nicknamed “Pacman frog” because with its disproportionately wide mouth, is one of the most difficult species to observe. Visible only a few nights a year with the first rains, this frog blends perfectly into its environment, only revealing its presence during the breeding season.


Did you know?
Frogs of the Dendrobatidae family, such as the fascinating Dendrobates tinctorius, do not
do not synthesize their toxins themselves. They accumulate them from the insects they
consume, making these small creatures among the most venomous in their habitat. This strategy food is a perfect example of ingenious evolution in the natural world.
Snakes: Often misunderstood predators
Guyana snakes unfortunately suffer from a bad reputation, often unjustified. On the hundred species present, only twelve are venomous and potentially dangerous for the man. Among these, the spearhead (Bothrops atrox), a formidable viper, has adapted to anthropized environments. Despite its potential danger, its ecological importance remains crucial, particularly for the regulation of rodent populations. The boa constrictor (Boa constrictor), called “sekumi tamunen” by the Kali’na Native Americans, is one of the largest snakes in South America, second only to the anaconda. This snake is harmless to humans, playing a vital role in balance forest ecosystems by controlling populations of small mammals.
Snakes of the genus Chironius and Spilotes, nicknamed “hunting snakes” by the Guyanese, impress with their size and agility. These diurnal predators, like the masked hunter (Chironius fuscus) and the oversized hunter (Chironius multiventris), track reptiles, small mammals, and birds with formidable precision. These are perfect examples of successful evolutionary adaptations, their allowing it to thrive in an environment as competitive as the Amazon rainforest.


Did you know?
The venom of the fearsome spearhead (Bothrops atrox) is a deadly cocktail of enzymes
hemotoxic agents that break down tissues and cause internal bleeding. Despite this danger,
inhabitants of Guyana have been able to take advantage of nature, developing effective antidotes from
local plants, thus proving the incredible value of traditional knowledge.
Reptiles and caimans: Silent guardians of the forest
Guyana is also home to a wide variety of lizards, including the marbled polychrus (Polychrus marmoratus), often confused with a chameleon due to its multicolored coat. However, this confusion highlights an interesting fact: chameleons are not native to the South American continent. The marbled polychre, although similar in its behavior, belongs to a completely distinct family, adapted to the particularities of the Amazonian ecosystem.
The green iguana (Iguana iguana), famous for its bright coloring as a juvenile, is another reptile emblematic. This reptile is prized by the Guyanese for hunting, especially during the holiday season. Despite its robust appearance, the green iguana is a vulnerable species, especially when faced with the destruction of its natural habitat.
The red caiman, or Cuvier’s dwarf caiman (Paleosuchus palpebrosus), is the smallest of the caimans of Guyana. Although classified as “least concern” by the IUCN, it faces threats significant environmental impacts, mainly due to deforestation and hunting. The populations Locals consider it a delicacy, particularly during family meals. However, the consumption of this species must be regulated to avoid excessive pressure on populations wild.
Did you know?
Dwarf caimans, like the Paleosuchus palpebrosus, have real natural armor. Below
their skin, bony plates called osteoderms give them exceptional protection, the
making them almost invulnerable to predator attacks and even bites from other caimans. A fascinating adaptation that testifies to the robustness of these silent guardians of the forest.
Preserving a natural heritage: An urgent imperative
French Guiana, with its 124 species of amphibians and 161 reptiles, is a jewel of biodiversity. However, this wealth is threatened by deforestation, which destroys habitats every year. reviews. Protecting these ecosystems means preserving the global balance, essential for the climate and life on Earth. Local communities, thanks to their ancestral knowledge, play a key role in this conservation, while research continues to uncover promising secrets for the future. Each gesture counts: supporting conservation projects, educating young people, or simply raising awareness around of us. Let’s act together to leave this natural treasure to future generations.

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