Part of the “Gran Humedal Norte de Ciego de Avila” (Great Northern Wetland of Ciego de Avila) Ramsar Site, this wilderness area is considered the country’s second-largest protected area of ​​this category, spanning 36,040 hectares.

The research, promoted by the Center for Environmental Engineering and Biodiversity (CIBA), aims to integrate the structural use of reptile communities—considering their presence or absence—within coastal ecosystems, noted scientist Daylon Fundora, who is leading the initiative.

He noted that the project is set to conclude in 2027 and fosters teamwork among researchers, specialists, and technicians from prestigious national entities, including the Cuban Institute of Biodiversity, the local Flora and Fauna Enterprise, and CIBA.

He specified that the animal groups within the area’s four existing vegetation formations have been characterized, and the locations of various species have been mapped, along with estimates of their abundance.

Other objectives include contributing knowledge regarding the health status of these vertebrates and evaluating the relationship between the protected area’s climatic and seasonal conditions, the various genera present, and the state of the vegetation, he added.

The studies also aim to develop public awareness initiatives directed primarily at managers, staff, and both domestic and international visitors at hotel and non-hotel facilities across the northern keys.

Twenty-eight reptile species and 11 genera have been identified in the Cayo Coco Central-West Protected Area; the most representative species include the Cuban boa (*maja de Santa Maria*), iguanas, and various lizards.

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