Omkar S. Dhale / Afr.J.Bio.Sc. 6(9) (2024) ISSN: 2663-2187 https://doi.org/ 10.33472/AFJBS.6.9.2024.4896-4901 DIVERSITY OF AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES IN MAHADARE CONSERVATION RESERVE, SATARA DISTRICT (MS), WESTERN GHATS, INDIA. Omkar S. Dhale 1 , Gayatri N. Pawar 2* , Neha N. Bendre 3 , Sunil H. Bhoite 4 1,2,3,4 Mahadare Ecological Research Institute Satara. India. 3 Yashavantrao Chavan Institute of Science, Satara. *Corresponding Author: Gayatri N. Pawar Freelance researcher, Mahadare Ecological Research Institute Satara. India Email: gayatripawar805@gmail.com Arcle History: Volume 6,Issue 9, 2024 Received: 29 Apr 2024 Accepted : 30 May 2024 doi: 10.33472/AFJBS.6.9.2024.4896-4901 INTRODUCTION: Mahadare forest, situated in Satara District, boasts an exceptional diversity of organisms owing to its unique position as an ecotone between evergreen, Semi-evergreen and Deciduous Forests Recognizing its ecological significance, Mahadare forest was designated as Conservation Reserve in 2022 (WLP.06.22/CR- 170/F-1). The local population engages in rice cultivation, leveraging the valley's conducive conditions for this crop. Beyond agriculture, Mahadare is renowned for its abundant floral and faunal diversity. The forest is intersected by numerous networks of small seasonal streams. While its wetlands serve as vital habitats for a plethora of species, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, and birds. Amphibians, crucial components of the ecosystem, fulfil significant roles as secondary consumers and biological pest controllers. Furthermore, their remarkable sensitivity renders them effective indicators (Simon et al. 2011) of environmental change. Reptiles, ubiquitous cold-blooded creatures, thrive in Mahadare's diverse habitats, which encompass a range of climates, ABSTRACT: Our study aimed to compile an inventory of reptiles and amphibians in unique ecosystem of Mahadare Conservation Reserve. The study was conducted from January 2021 to December 2023 by using visual encounter and opportunistic observation methods, it revealed a total of 60 species, comprising 51 reptiles and 9 amphibians, with no previous records available for the area. Among these, 11 species are listed under Schedule I and 33 under Schedule II of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. Additionally, 3 species are listed under Appendix I, 7 under Appendix II, and 2 under Appendix III of CITES. We also identified species listed in various categories of the IUCN Red List (DD-7, LC-44, VU-3, NT-5, CR-1). During study it is seen that lack of awareness about ecological role of amphibians and reptiles resulting into unfounded beliefs and mortality of that organisms. From above study we conclude that, it is essential to raise public awareness of the significance of reptiles and amphibians as biocontrol agents, environmental indicators. KEYWORDS: Mahadare Conservation Reserve, Reptile, Amphibia, Ecotone.