Tracing Zoonotic Emergence through Evolution and Biodiversity of Reptiles: An Appraisal on One Health Concept from the Indian -Subcontinent
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.68903/vjta.2026.v07i02.01Keywords:
Indian subcontinent; Reptile diversification; Pathogens; Zoonoses; One Health; Host–pathogen InteractionsAbstract
The Indian subcontinent provides a unique natural laboratory to study the relationships between geological history, biodiversity, evolutionary diversification and zoonotic disease emergence. Subsequent to its splitting from Gondwana, the Indian Plate drifted northward and collided with Eurasia, drastically altering the landscape, temperature and biogeography of the region. The formation of the Himalaya, Indo-Gangetic plains, northeastern hill systems and prominent biogeographic barriers facilitated isolation, dispersal and diversity of reptile lineages. While the knowledge of reptile diversity continues to improve, significant gaps remain uncovered in comparing evolutionary history to pathogenic ecology. Molecular studies of Himalayan and Indo-Burmese reptiles indicate that diversification has been associated with geological and climatic changes, especially the uplift of the Himalayas and the establishment of the South Asian monsoon. These evolutionary processes lead to a diversity of reptile assemblages and possibly structured host-associated microbial ecosystems. Reptiles may harbor bacteria, viruses and parasites of zoonotic significance and their interactions with arthropod vectors could potentially contribute to the maintenance and transmission of pathogens. Established ecological systems may be disrupted by evolving stresses such as habitat fragmentation, urbanization, wildlife trade, climate change, invasive species and growing human-animal interface and might provide opportunities for pathogen spillover. A One Health paradigm that includes evolutionary biology, herpetology, microbiology, veterinary science, ecology and public health is therefore critical to identify and mitigate increasing zoonotic diseases associated with reptiles.
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