Revista Chilena de Historia Natural 75 (2): 433-448, 2002
RESEARCH ARTICLE
Terrestrial vertebrates of the Río Clarillo National Reserve, central Chile: representation and
conservation
We analyzed the representation, distribution and conservation perspectives of terrestrial
vertebrates in the Río Clarillo National Reserve, central Chile. During periodical surveys conducted between 1987 and 1996, we
determined the composition and altitudinal distribution of the terrestrial vertebrates in this Reserve. We recorded 127 species (22
mammals, 85 birds, 15 reptiles and five amphibians), that accounted for 69 % of all vertebrates expected by their geographic
distribution and habitat use. In addition, 32 species (25 %) belonging to some threatened conservation category. The vertebrate
richness decreased with the altitude, from 101 species at 870 m to eight species at 3,050 m. Vertebrate richness is concentrated
below 1,600 m supporting 109 species, with 55 species not observed at higher altitudes. Over the 1,600 m we recorded 57 species.
Paradoxically, 31 % of the Reserve area are below 1,600 m and 69 % are above 1,600 m. Our results suggest that the Reserve area is
not enough to support viable populations of the majority of their terrestrial vertebrates. Private properties around the Reserve are
covered by extensive sclerophyllous forests under 1,600 m, which could be a source of vertebrates. Therefore, it is necessary to
conduct conservation strategies in the reserve and these private areas and monitor periodically the population of vertebrates, in order
to determine if populations are increasing or decreasing.
Key words:
conservation, terrestrial
vertebrates, Río Clarillo National Reserve, sclerophyllous forests, central Chile
