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Boas of the West Indies
Evolution, Natural History, and Conservation
Robert Graham Reynolds (Author), Robert W. Henderson (Author), Luis M. Díaz (Author), Tomás M. Rodríguez-Cabrera (Author), Alberto R. Puente-Rolón (Author), Jonathan B. Losos (Foreword by)
9781501765452
Hardback, published 15 March 2023
288 pages, 122 color photos, 21 maps, 3 charts, 2 graphs - 2 Graphs - 122 Illustrations, color - 21 Maps - 3 Charts
25.4 x 20.3 x 2.1 cm, 1.361 kg
Ultimately, what stood out to me while reading the book was the obvious dedication that the authors have for studying and conserving West Indian boas. This dedication is manifested in this excellent body of work that represents a leap in knowledge over the last 30 years. A valuable resource for biogeographers anywhere, students of evolution, herpetologists in general, and snake lovers.
Boas of the West Indies is a comprehensive survey of boid snakes, commonly known as boas, found on the islands of the Lucayan Archipelago, the Greater Antilles, and the Lesser Antilles. Bringing together the expertise of leading herpetologists R. Graham Reynolds, Robert W. Henderson, Luis M. Díaz, Tomás Michel Rodríguez, and Alberto R. Puente-Rolón, this volume synthesizes established knowledge and new findings on the evolutionary biology, natural history, and conservation statuses of these iconic snakes. One of the most ecologically diverse snake families, boas have inhabited the West Indies for millions of years. From the Cuban boa, which in many folk legends may grow to over twice a person's height, to the Hispaniolan vineboa, discovered only in 2020 and known to measure less than a meter long, Boas of the West Indies examines the eighteen species extant on these islands along with several others now extinct. Species accounts include details such as phenotypic traits, distribution, and behavior. Introductory chapters discuss the history of human-boa interaction, differences between West Indian and neotropical mainland boids, current conservation efforts, and more. Illustrated with over a hundred color photographs and range maps, Boas of the West Indies is a benchmark reference for herpetologists, conservationists, and snake hobbyists that expands our knowledge of—and celebrates—these fascinating creatures so integral to the ecology of these islands.
Introduction
1. The Shared History of Boas and Humans in the West Indies
2. Comparisons between West Indian and Neotropical Mainland Boas
3. Boas as Invaders in the West Indies and Beyond
4. Conservation of the West Indian Boa Fauna
5. Species Accounts
6. A Brief History of the Study of West Indian Boas
Epilogue