With their unique flora and fauna, Madagascar and the nearby islands in the Indian Ocean region are among the most interesting destinations for professional and amateur naturalists, herpetologists, and those keeping amphibians and reptiles as pets. This work is a very accessible guide to the herpetofauna of the area and comes complete with information on the regional climate and vegetation, as well as with information on vivarium care. Descriptions of 240 species of frogs, turtles and tortoises, chameleons, geckos, iguanas and agamas, skinks, and snakes are provided. For each species, the description includes information on distribution, habitat, characteristic features, as well as some general comments on natural history. Two hundred sixty-nine high quality color photographs simplify identification. Final translation and technical edit by Hinrich Kaiser, PhD.