HERPETOLOGICAL AND VIVARIUM CONFERENCE

Pilsen, Czech Republic

Cart

History of the Herpetological and Vivarium Conference

The Herpetological and Vivarium Conference, held in Plzeň, boasts a history spanning over three decades and has become one of the most significant events in herpetology and reptile husbandry in Central Europe. Since its inaugural meeting in the late 1980s, the conference has attracted experts, researchers, breeders, and enthusiasts from around the world, creating a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences in the conservation, research, and care of reptiles and amphibians.

Tradition and Impact

The conference is not only a place to share the latest scientific findings but also a community event fostering collaboration between scientists, conservationists, and breeders. It has been instrumental in initiating significant projects related to endangered species conservation, breeding program coordination, and public education.

If you want to be part of this longstanding tradition and explore the latest trends in herpetology, we invite you to join the upcoming 34th edition, scheduled for February 2025 in Plzeň.

1986
  • First meeting of herpetologists and terrarium enthusiasts:
    The first significant meeting of herpetologists and terrarium enthusiasts helped establish the foundation for a thriving community in the Czech Republic. Notable contributors included Jiří Lörincz (Czech Republic), a passionate reptile keeper and early advocate for venomous species. Discussions revolved around venomous snakes, handling techniques, breeding, and snakebite prevention.
  • Location:
    Svatošské Skály, Karlovy Vary – an iconic natural site cherished by nature lovers.
2013
  • Collaboration with Plzeň Zoo:
    The event moved to the Lüftnerka estate, providing more space for the lectures and expanding the range of topics.
  • Mario Schweiger (Austria):
    Focused on viper conservation efforts in Europe, highlighting important field studies.
  • Jan Zábranský (Czech Republic):
    Zábranský introduced his experiences in breeding endangered species in the Czech Republic, focusing on the conservation of amphibians and reptiles.
  • Expanded program:
    The introduction of specialized workshops for handling venomous snakes and the safe use of equipment.
2016
  • International scope:
    The conference expanded its global reach with more experts presenting from all corners of the world.
  • Mark O’Shea (UK):
    Known for his work as a herpetologist and TV personality, O’Shea shared captivating stories of his expeditions and dangerous encounters with venomous species.
  • Goran Nilsson (Sweden):
    Nilsson's session focused on the taxonomy of vipers, contributing to broader discussions on species conservation.
  • MUDr. Jiří Valenta (Czech Republic):
    Medical presentations on the latest in venomous snakebite treatments. His real-world experience with bite cases from exotic locations added to the relevance of his lectures.
2017
  • Lachesis species focus:
    Featured in the conference were the venomous pit vipers of the genus Lachesis, highlighting their ecology and the threats they face.
  • Greivin Corrales (Costa Rica):
    Shared his expertise on the conservation of Central American snakes, including the Lachesis species in Costa Rica, stressing the importance of preserving their natural habitats.
  • Sergey Riabov (Russia):
    Provided insight into his work at the Tulsk Exoticarium in Russia, focusing on snake species from Southeast Asia and his breeding programs for rare exotic reptiles.
  • Snakeman of the Year Award:
    This year’s award went to RNDr. Pavel Moucha for his lifelong commitment to the conservation of reptiles and crocodiles.
2018
  • Venomous snakes of Southeast Asia:
    The year's event explored new research on venomous snake species from Southeast Asia, including the Trimeresurus genus.
  • Larry Lee Grismer (USA):
    Grismer shared his vast knowledge of Southeast Asian herpetofauna, particularly the biodiversity of reptiles in the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra.
  • Bjorn Lardner (Sweden):
    Gave a talk on the invasive species, including the irregular boid snakes of Guam, and their ecological impact on the island’s biodiversity.
2019
  • 30th Anniversary Edition:
    The conference celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking the significant growth of herpetology in Central Europe.
  • Romulus Whitaker (India):
    Whitaker, a world-renowned expert on crocodile conservation, presented his work on the Madras Crocodile Bank and the conservation of Indian venomous snakes.
  • International collaboration:
    Researchers discussed the importance of sharing genetic and ecological data for the conservation of endangered species.
2020
  • Mesoamerican herpetofauna:
    The event focused on the biodiversity of Central America, particularly rare and endangered species of snakes and amphibians.
  • Jonathan A. Campbell (USA):
    Presented findings from his extensive fieldwork in Mexico and Guatemala, including the discovery of new species and the conservation challenges they face.
2023
  • Focus on European Grass Viper (Vipera ursini):
    The 2023 conference emphasized the conservation of the Meadow Viper (Vipera ursinii), an endangered species facing population decline across Europe.
  • Alexandru Strugariu (Romania):
    His research on the conservation of Vipera ursinii moldavica provided key insights into the genetic diversity and the environmental challenges affecting this species.
  • Snakeman of the Year Award:
    Konrad Mebert (Switzerland) was awarded for his significant contributions to herpetology and his research on European vipers.
2024
  • Focus on rattlesnakes of North and Central America
    The 2024 conference ficused on research and conservation of emblematic rattlesnakes from SW USA and Mexico.
  • Andrew Holycross (USA):
    Adjunct Curator of Herpetology in the BioCollections at Arizona State University presented his work on Crotalus willardi obscurus and magnificent book Snakes of Arizona.
  • Bob Ashley (USA)
    Bob is the Past President of the International Herpetological Symposium, current Vice President and the current treasurer of S.S.A.R.  He and his wife, Sheri, opened the Chiricahua Desert Museum in 2009 (Rodeo, New Mexico). He also started the ECO Wear and Publishing in 1995.
  • Snakeman of the Year Award:
    Konrad Mebert (Switzerland) was awarded for his significant contributions to herpetology and his research on European vipers.