The Known Distribution of an Invasive Lizard, the Brown Anole (Anolis sagrei Duméril & Bibron, 1837), in Taiwan

Abstract

The Brown Anole (Anolis sagrei) has become an invasive species in some parts of the Americas and in some localities in the Pacific region. In Taiwan A. sagrei was recorded for the first time in 2000 in Santzepu, southwestern Taiwan, and was subsequently recorded in Chisintang, eastern Taiwan, during 2006. For future monitoring and research, we describe the known distribution of A. sagrei in Taiwan by plotting GPS coordinates of localities where A. sagrei was observed during surveys (conducted on an ad hoc basis since this species was first discovered in Taiwan) or where specimens have been collected on GIS User Community aerial photographs that were divided into 100 x 100-m grids. We recorded this invasive lizard in southwestern Taiwan in an area spanning approximately 237 ha and in an approximately 8-ha area in eastern Taiwan. Since A. sagrei is easily spread by human activities, and because not all areas could be thoroughly surveyed, we conclude that the current actual distribution of A. sagrei in Taiwan is probably more extensive than shown. We believe that the eradication of A. sagrei in Taiwan through removal is unrealistic, and propose that ongoing efforts should focus on managing this species.