About
The Neiba Agave sphaero is incredibly rare and is hardly encountered; therefore there is very little data on their population size and population trends.
This species has never been found elsewhere in the Dominican Republic other than where it was originally found on Sierra de Neiba, despite intensive surveys, indicating strongly that this species is endemic to this locality.
The Neiba Agave sphaero is part of the family Sphaerodactylidae, which diverged from all other families of reptiles 87 million years ago. This is around the time that humans and rabbits shared a common ancestor!
Habitat loss due to agricultural expansion on this island is a major threat to this species, alongside charcoal production and overgrazing. Unfortunately, the only vegetation suitable for wood harvesting and charcoaling are the Agaves on which this species depends.
The species is found in a single protected area, yet this is apparently ineffective in preventing deforestation. Enforcement of the protected area is essential for the survival of this species.
- Order: Squamata
- Family: Sphaerodactylidae
- Population: Uncommon
- Trend: unknown
EDGE Score
Distribution
The species is found on Sierra de Neiba, Dominican Republic, around 273 metres above sea level.
Habitat and Ecology
This species lives in xeric (extremely dry) habitats where it is found in and beneath dead Agave rosettes.