**2.2 Reptiles**

As we mention before the global modification of ecosystems has been induced the global warming and is identified as a significant and immediate threat that could radically affect the ability of species to survive. It is of great interest the ability of species to adjust to changes in the thermal environment, habitat structure and other fundamental niche axis. For terrestrial ectotherms, an increase in average temperature may affect their spatial distribution, physiological performance, reproductive biology and behavior (Dunham, 1993; Grant & Porter, 1992). As reptiles depend of external heat sources to regulate their body temperature climate is a key factor influencing the distribution and abundance of species (Pough, 2001; Zug, 1993).

In contrast to the work conducted with amphibians, which has been extensive research on biological and ecological consequences of climate change, reptiles provide a scenario with broad potential. Although there are studies that suggest interesting perspectives on the issue, and then are exposed works concerning on the effects of ecological, physiological, reproductive, behavioral and evolutionary change in reptiles.
