Invasive amphibians and reptiles living in Brazil

Invasive amphibians and reptiles have historically been ignored by governments and science, especially in the Neotropics. There have been few studies related to invasive herpetofauna in Brazil, making information about this group scarce. Our aim was to review the current status of alien amphibians and reptiles with wild populations in Brazil. We compiled knowledge about the history of invasions, biological characteristics of species, and their impacts and current distributions in Brazil. In addition, we discuss management and policy actions that must be implemented for each species, especially for the most harmful ones. We found six amphibian and six reptile invasive species recorded in Brazil, in addition to four reptile species that were considered potential invaders. There are confirmed negative impacts on human health and biodiversity for two amphibians (Aquarana catesbeiana and Rhinella jimi) and two reptiles (Salvator merianae and Trachemys scripta elegans). The main routes of introduction of invasive herpetofauna in Brazil are the pet trade and commercial production. Most invasive species are present in the Atlantic Forest and three are found only in the Fernando de Noronha archipelago. Furthermore, most species have small and dispersed populations that allow monitoring programs for research or even eradication, especially for island populations. Species at more advanced stages of invasion, such as A. catesbeiana and T. scripta elegans, need a national program to control populations and prevent spread. Further ecological studies are important to assess the impacts of invasive herpetofauna on Brazilian biodiversity, as is the straightforward implementation of action plans with the best techniques for the control or eradication of these populations.