The Introduced and Native Terrestrial Vertebrates of Fiji

Abstract

A complete list of native and introduced Fijian terrestrial vertebrates has been compiled that includes a number of previously unrecorded reptiles. An analysis has been made of the habitat distribution of most species. The past and present status of the various native vertebrates is examined, and the impact of post-European vertebrate introductions on the indigenous and endemic fauna is assessed in the light of current knowledge. It is concluded that the success of certain introduced bird species is due in part to their close association with human-modified habitats, while the native species are primarily adapted to a forest environment. Although the introduced mongoose may be implicated in the decline of some native vertebrate species, its effect may be less important than previously stated and is certainly less than the effect of native habitat destruction and environmental modification by humans.