Biological connections: The uncertain future of the threatened U.S.–Mexico border region herpetofauna

Abstract

In light of critical environmental crises, this study emphasizes the urgent need for the U.S. and Mexico to protect 231 shared herpetofaunal species (amphibians and reptiles) distributed along their border. Key findings indicate that Texas and Chihuahua have the highest number of these cross-border species, with the Chihuahuan Desert ecoregion being particularly rich in diversity. Alarmingly, 62 species (26.8%) are classified as highly vulnerable, predominantly reptiles, and 90 species are narrowly distributed across just a few states and ecoregions, primarily in the California Baja California, Texas-Tamaulipas, and Arizona-Sonora border areas. This study highlights how the border wall severely harms wildlife by sidestepping environmental laws, destroying habitats, and undermining crucial conservation and research efforts. Consequently, our research strongly advocates for increased binational cooperation between both nations, urging governmental bodies to base their policies on sound scientific knowledge and adopt a biocentric approach to ensure the continued survival of these vulnerable species and their habitats.