Serpientes, un legado ancestral en riesgo

Mexico is home to approximately 393 species of snakes, of which 210 only exist within its territory. These reptiles offer ecosystem services that provide benefits to humanity like pest control. Despite the fact that they have been venerated by our ancestors, there is currently a repudiation of them due to the ignorance and false information. Through an exhaustive bibliographic review, we present data regarding the importance of serpents or ophidians in our culture and their diversity in our country. We also mention the benefits they offer, the ignorance and myths towards them and the conflict with humans, emphasizing the causes that threaten their existence, as well as the importance of environmental education for its conservation. It is our responsibility to disclose trustworthy information that generates correct perceptions to preserve these reptiles.