Threatened Biodiversity and Traditional Ecological Knowledge: Associated Beliefs, Customs, and Uses of Herpetofauna among the 'Are'Are on Malaita Island, Solomon Islands

For many societies, including those in the rapidly urbanizing Pacific Islands, local biodiversity is threatened and traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) is in danger of being lost. Herpetofauna, in particular, are globally threatened, along with their associated cultural knowledge and beliefs. The aim of this study was to examine the species richness and conservation status of herpetofauna and associated TEK among the 'Are'Are on Malaita Island, Solomon Islands. Questionnaire surveys were used to collect information about local perceptions and knowledge regarding frogs, skinks, and geckos, as well as their forest habitats. Local informants were distributed equally between sexes and age groups. A total of 18 different species of frogs and lizards were recorded and characterized. Seven distinct cultural uses were identified. Informants above the age of 60 exhibited greater herpetofaunal knowledge, as measured by number of species identified, with males demonstrating knowledge of slightly more species than females. Our results show that action is warranted to document and preserve community TEK in the Solomon Islands as step towards preserving biodiversity and supporting cultural conservation.