An overview of the past, present, and future of the Cuban Boa, Chilabothrus angulifer (Squamata: Boidae)

• DOI: 10.17161/randa.v23i3.14123
• Publication Date: 2021-07-16T06:28:12Z
• Authors: Tomás M. Rodrígue...; Ruben Marrero; Javier Torres
• Keywords: Homo sapiens


 On oceanic islands, where carnivorous mammals are frequently absent, the niches of large predators often filled by raptors and reptiles. Cuban Boas (Chilabothrus angulifer), along with Crocodiles (Crocodylus rhombifer) birds prey, were top in Cenozoic terrestrial ecosystems Cuba until arrival Homo sapiens region about 6,000 years ago. This ecological scenario boas genus Chilabothrus functioning as is repeated on each largest islands Greater Antilles. The evolution very size Boa best explained phyletic giantism (Cope’s Rule), although other paleo-ecological selective factors might have maintained or even accentuated evolutionary trend toward body (insular giantism). However, this seems not to be case for all species Chilabothrus, since a small several lineages, phenomenon that autamorphic nanism (Island Rule). Unfortunately, negative effects humans natural populations apparently induced dramatic reduction maximum during relatively short period first reliable measurements recorded 19th century. Such consistent reported West Indian reptiles probably indicative rapid response highly modified environment new pressures.