Reporters: Asst.Prof.Dr. Prapot Maliwan
Assoc.Prof.Dr. Pornsil Seephueak
Asst.Prof.Dr. Nion Chirapongsathonkul
Asst.Prof.Dr. Worawitoo Meesook
Evidence Date: during 2024 Jan-Dec
Related SDGs:
Related Indicators: 15.2.3
Details:
Asst. Prof.Dr. Worawitoo Meesook is conducting research on herpetofauna in the Thung Song Municipality Project. Herpetofauna refers to reptiles and amphibians, which play an important role in ecosystems. The project aims to document the diversity and abundance of herpetofauna in both less disturbed areas and more disturbed areas. Less disturbed areas include forests and limestone hills that remain relatively intact. More disturbed areas include resident areas with frequent human activities. By comparing these two types of areas, Dr. Worawitoo can better understand how human disturbance affects herpetofaunal communities. The fieldwork involves careful surveys during nighttime periods. Methods include visual encounter surveys, auditory surveys for frogs, and habitat assessment. All findings are systematically recorded and verified to ensure accuracy. The work reflects her dedication to combining scientific study with community benefit.
One of the main goals of the project is to evaluate herpetofauna as bioindicators of environmental health. Certain reptiles, such as tree snakes, are obligated to live in high tree habitats and are therefore found only in less disturbed areas. In addition, some reptile species are endemic and restricted to the limestone ecosystem, including the Beautiful Pit Viper (Trimeresurus venustus), Chanard’s Rock Gecko (Cnemaspis chanardi), and Lekagul’s Bent-toed Gecko (Cyrtodactylus lekaguli). The presence of these species indicates the importance of conserving intact habitats. In contrast, common and adaptable species such as the Tokay Gecko (Gekko gecko) and the Common Burrowing Frog (Kaloula pulchra) can be found in both disturbed and undisturbed areas. By recording species occurrence across different environments, Dr. Worawitoo can evaluate habitat quality and ecological resilience. The distinction between habitat specialists and generalists provides valuable insights into environmental changes. Endemic and sensitive species reflect ecosystem stability, while widespread species highlight adaptability to human disturbance. Together, these findings reveal patterns of biodiversity distribution in Thung Song Municipality. This approach underscores the role of herpetofauna as practical indicators for conservation and sustainable management.
Related Links:
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1458312522226101
