Predicted distribution patterns of Pelias kaznakovi (Nikolsky, 1909) in the caucasus hotspot with a new locality record from Turkey

Abstract

We represent climatic preferences of Pelias kaznakovi, which is a Caucasus endemic viper species together with a new locality record. Male P. kaznakovi specimen has morphological similarities in terms of pholidosis characters and color and pattern like other specimens in the literature. According to species distribution modeling, bioclimatic variables as of precipitation of driest month appear to have the most useful information on geographic distribution of P. kaznakovi. Distribution model of P. kaznakovi under current climatic conditions showed better adaptation to the northwest of the Caucasus hotspot.