International Journal of Fauna and Biological Studies
Volume 1, Issue 1
Current Status, Distribution and Threats of Varanus Species (Varanus bengalensis & Varanus griseus) in Karachi & Thatta of Sindh
Author(s): M. Usman Ali Hashmi 1, M. Zaheer Khan 2, Amtyaz 3*, Nawaz Ul Huda 4
1. Dept. of Zoology, Dehli Govt. Science College, Hussain Abad, 75950, Karachi, PAKISTAN.
2. Dept. of Zoology, University of Karachi, 75270, PAKISTAN
3. Dept. of Zoology, Sir Syed Govt. Girls College NazimAbad, Karachi-74600
4. Department of Geography University of Karachi, 75270.
Abstract: Field studies for status, distribution and threats of Varanus species, in study areas of sindh (Karachi and Thatta) were carried out from January 2012 to July 2013. Two Species (Varanus bengalensis and Varanus griseus) were found during the field survey in both these two districts of Sindh. Some areas were found disturbed and some were undisturbed. Little undistrubed areas mostly found in Thatta and disturbed areas lie in Karachi. Varanus bengalensis has rich distribution in all over these two districts of sindh, while Varanus griseus were found only in undisturbed areas of Thatta. However, both the species are being threatened by human activities. During survey a total of 204, specimen of Vranus bengalensis and only 11 of Varanus griseus were Captured and Release for reseach. Average (SVL) snout vent length of population at Thatta were 52.751 Cm and average weight were 43.097g. In Karachi average (SVL) length were 49.507 Cm and average weight were 47.991g. (Eleven) 11 main habitats were identified in overall field survey and observed that main threats were degradation of natural habitats, disturbans from villagers and hunters. Mortality of Varanus bengalensis was observed during road crossing, therefore, both the species need special conservational interest..
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