RUTS SDG 15.2.4 Evidence (2025)

Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya

RUTS SDG 15.2.4 Evidence (2025)

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3 Nov 2026

1. Primary SDG: 15.2.4

2. Related SDGs (if any):

3. Category:

☐ Policy and Operations

☐ Teaching and Learning

☐ Outreach and Engagement

🗹 Research and Innovation

☐ Others (please specify): __________

4. Title: Wildlife Across Changing Ecosystems: Comparing Amphibian and Reptile Diversity in Thung Song

5. Activity/Implementation Date: 28 May 2024 – 23 March 2025

6. Responsible Unit: Faculty of Science and Technology

7. News Content:

The Faculty of Science and Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya, conducted a study on the diversity of amphibians and reptiles in Thung Song Municipality from 28 May 2024 to 23 March 2025. The research was led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Worawitoo Meesook, Dr. Prasert Nonthakarn, Dr. Komsum Nuntasoontorn, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Thitikorn Prombanchong. The research team worked in collaboration with pharmacist Siriwat Dangsri, Thung Song Municipality, local community members, teachers, and students. The study compared amphibian and reptile diversity between areas with higher levels of human disturbance and areas with lower levels of disturbance. Thung Song is an important study area because limestone hills occur within and around the urban landscape. These limestone habitats provide distinctive ecological conditions and shelter for many wildlife species. The research aimed to document local amphibian and reptile fauna and to improve understanding of how disturbance may affect wildlife diversity. It also aimed to strengthen local awareness of biodiversity conservation. Through this university-community collaboration, scientific research was connected directly with environmental education and local conservation action.

Field surveys were conducted at night, when many amphibians and reptiles are active. The research team used flashlights to search for and observe amphibian and reptile species in their natural habitats. Surveys were carried out in ten study sites, comprising five areas with greater disturbance and five areas with lower disturbance. Researchers recorded species found at each site in order to compare diversity between the two types of areas. Teachers, students, and community members joined parts of the field survey and gained practical experience in wildlife observation. Students from Thung Song Municipality Sports School and Tha Phae Municipal Secondary School participated in hands-on learning activities. Participants learned basic methods for observing, photographing, and recording birds, amphibians, and reptiles. The night surveys allowed participants to observe nocturnal animals and learn about their behaviour without disturbing them. During field activities, researchers and local participants exchanged knowledge about local wildlife, habitats, and conservation concerns. The project also produced the e-book Amphibians and Reptiles of Thung Song to help local people identify and better understand the wildlife found in their own area.

The survey recorded 17 species of amphibians and 39 species of reptiles in Thung Song Municipality. The findings confirmed that the city and its surrounding limestone hills support significant amphibian and reptile diversity. Many recorded species are protected under Thai law, while some are endemic to southern Thailand or restricted to limestone habitats. Several species recorded in the survey are also listed as threatened on the IUCN Red List. Important findings included the Critically Endangered Elongated Tortoise, the Endangered Asian Box Turtle, and the Near Threatened Clouded Monitor and Indo-Chinese Rat Snake. The survey also documented the Vulnerable Southern King Cobra and Beautiful Pit Viper. These species indicate the ecological value of local habitats and highlight the need for continued conservation efforts. The participation of teachers, students, and community members increased public knowledge of wildlife and encouraged young people to become interested in scientific research. The e-book provides an accessible resource for local residents, schools, and visitors to learn about amphibians and reptiles in Thung Song. Overall, the project strengthened cooperation among researchers, local authorities, schools, and communities while supporting the long-term conservation of wildlife and ecosystem biodiversity in Thung Song.