Keywords
nutraceuticals
reptile
tropics
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Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the consumption preferences of the green iguana (Iguana, iguana (Linnaeus, 1758) under extensive management within a Wildlife Management and Use Unit (Unidad de Manejo y Aprovechamiento de Vida Silvestre, UMA by its Spanish abbreviation). The research was conducted at the Iguanario (Iguana Sanctuary) La Loma A.C., located in the town of El Papayo, municipality of Copala, Guerrero, in southwestern Mexico. Data were collected from fecal samples taken from wild iguanas. The UMA was divided into three areas: a common zone and two areas defined by vegetation type, where botanical samples were obtained. Of a total of 40 plant species collected, five were identified as preferred by iguanas: chimai or espino (Vachellia campechian), frijolillo or haba de mar (Canavalia rose), jaragua grass (Hyparrhenia rufa), bejuco (Adenocalymma inundatum), and algodoncillo (Asclepias auriculata). The observed food preferences could be related to the nutritional and medicinal properties of the plants, fruits, and flowers consumed.
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