Javier Arturo Benítez Moreno
Knowledge on the factors involved in species reproductive ecology is a great tool for their conservation, especially when dealing with those considered vulnerable, threatened or endangered, as is the case of the American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus). In some countries in North America, South America, and the Caribbean, the research conducted has provided data on the reproductive ecology of C. acutus. However, this topic is almost unknown for some sites in Central America, such as Guatemala, where the species seems to be restricted to specific areas in the country (Caribbean and Pacific versants), and with nesting areas located in disturbed sites, exposed to different human pressures.
The American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) is listed as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List, and in Category II of the list of threatened species of Consejo Nacional de Áreas Protegidas (CONAP) from Guatemala. This lack of information restricts the knowledge on C. acutus populations status in Guatemala. Nesting periods represents a crucial stage in the life cycle of the species, and should be a focus of conservation research, especially when dealing with vulnerable or endangered species. This project will provide the first assessment of the reproductive biology and nesting ecology of the American crocodile in Guatemala. Investigating habitat conditions, environmental variables related to nesting ecology, interaction with pollutants, and behavioural aspects of the species in early stages of its life cycle, in a place with significant disturbance due to fishing, livestock, agriculture and mining, in Izabal Department, Guatemala.
This project will be carried out through a binational relationship between Mexico (El Colegio de la Frontera Sur) and Guatemala (Reserva Natural Privada Setal), always seeking a relationship with other local institutions and the human populations surrounding the study area, and by promoting the benefits of the conservation of this crocodile species, and the appropriate coexistence between humans and wildlife.