Impact of Urban Development on Behavioural Ecology and Density of Dhab in Al-Gassim Region, Saudi Arabia PDF

Keywords

lizards, Saudi Arabia, fauna

Abstract

Lizards are important members of the desert fauna of Saudi Arabia. Uromastyx microlepis "Dhab" is one of the most dominant species in the central part of the country. The aims of the present study were to generate a baseline data on ecological behavioral, as well as the effect of human activities in relation to environmental changes in Dhab density under natural conditions. The distribution of Dhabs were studied in Central, North and Western region of Saudi Arabia by direct observation and counting Dhab numbers. Also the Dhab density in Al-Gassim region were recorded by dividing Al-Gassim to 14 sectors (provinces). The average density of Dhab in Al-Gassim region was estimated as 39/sq.km. Also Al-Ras province density was estimated as 132/sq.km. High numbers of Dhab were seen between 35-40 °C. Aleblah habitat was chosen for studying the effects of human activity on Dhab density and colony systems. The average density of Dhab in Aleblah was estimated as 49/sq.km. As a result of rapid developments in Al-Gassim Cities, Shab has shown a steadily decreasing range of colony system, distribution and declining density. The result of the present study had shown the necessity and had risen the awareness to conduct more conservational investigation on Dhab species, which are considered invaluable assets in the wildlife in Saudi Arabia