Evaluación del comportamiento alimentario de Holcosus orcesi mantenida bajo cuidado humano dentro del Bioparque AMARU

Abstract

The Orcés’ Blue Whiptail (Holcosus orcesi) is a species endemic to the Santa Isabel canton, Azuay province, Ecuador. It is distinguished from other specimens by the conformation of its scales and its coloring, which allows its differentiation. It is categorized as critically endangered according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This is a Sine Qua Non condition to protect it in conservation centers. To this end, the taxonomic and entomological identification of around 12 specimens collected in their natural habitat was conducted to recognize the diversity present in their environment. Additionally, a coproparasite analysis was performed to understand their feeding strategy, examining part of their diet and the presence of possible parasites. Finally, a species of cricket (Acheta domesticus) was selected, which underwent a bromatological analysis to develop a base diet in order to improve health and stimulate the natural behavior of this species. At the same time, their daily activity was recorded through an ethogram with 20 behavioral patterns related to daily maintenance and eating behaviors. A decrease in negative behaviors could be observed (p=0.063) and also a significant variation in behaviors related to daily maintenance (p=0.021), which suggests that the appearance of new behaviors may be related to internal and external factors of environmental and food enrichment; something that occurred within their microhabitat. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor this species to guarantee its survival and conservation. Keywords: behavioral patterns, IUCN, conservation, Azuay, endemic.