Bio-ecological status, Management and Conservation of Marsh Crocodiles (Crocodylus palustris) in Deh Akro 2, Sindh–Pakistan

Abstract

The Marsh Crocodiles perform an integral role in maintaining the structure and function of fresh water ecosystem since they are the top predator and keystone species within their natural environment. This research study investigated for the bio-ecological status, population of Marsh Crocodile at Deh Akro 2 Nawabshah and adjoining areas and suggests certain conservation measures for their in-situ and ex-situ protection. Present investigation was carried out at Deh Akro 2 during 2006 and 2009, in order to determine the ecology of Crocodylus palustris. The observations revealed the total number of Crocodiles was one hundred eighty nine (189) in the studied areas among which, 98 were adult crocodiles, 53 were juveniles and 38 were hatchlings.