Ecotoxicological Impact and Challenges on Snakes Populations: A Review

Abstract

Snake populations face a myriad of ecological challenges in the modern world, including habitat loss, fragmentation, climate change, and the direct and indirect effects of human activities. Among these challenges, the ecotoxicological impact on snake populations emerges as a critical concern. This abstract explores the ecological challenges faced by snake populations, with a particular focus on the consequences of ecotoxicological stressors. Habitat degradation and loss disrupt the delicate balance snakes maintain within ecosystems. Fragmented habitats lead to reduced gene flow, limiting genetic diversity and adaptability. Climate change influences their thermoregulatory behaviors and, in turn, their foraging success. Moreover, the proliferation of pollutants, such as heavy metals, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals, poses grave threats to snake populations. Snakes' role as both predators and prey in food chains further amplifies the ecotoxicological impact on ecosystems. This abstract underscore the importance of recognizing and addressing the ecotoxicological impact on snake populations. Such impacts reverberate through ecosystems, affecting both the species in question and the ecological services they provide. Conservation measures must integrate habitat restoration, pollution control, and climate adaptation strategies to safeguard snake populations and maintain the ecological balance they contribute to. The study of these ecological challenges and their ecotoxicological implications is crucial for effective conservation efforts in a rapidly changing world.