Louis W. Porras is a highly respected and influential herpetologist recognized internationally for his extensive contributions to reptile and amphibian research, conservation, and herpetoculture. Born in Costa Rica, Louis holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from the University of Miami and has devoted over five decades to studying the taxonomy, distribution, and ecology of reptiles and amphibians, particularly in Mesoamerica and the American Southwest.

Louis’s early career was marked by significant involvement in herpetoculture. He co-founded the renowned reptile businesses The Shed in Miami, Florida (1973–1981), and Zooherp, Inc., in Sandy, Utah, both of which played pivotal roles in advancing reptile husbandry and captive breeding practices. His zoological expertise extended further through his professional roles at two prominent institutions: Houston Zoological Gardens and Utah’s Hogle Zoo, where he provided specialized care for a wide range of reptilian and amphibian species.

In leadership, Louis served as Vice-President and subsequently President of the International Herpetological Symposium (IHS). During his tenure, he was instrumental in launching the esteemed scientific journal Herpetological Natural History and supported the publication of Advances in Herpetoculture, which has profoundly influenced modern herpetological practices. In recognition of his extraordinary lifetime achievements, the IHS established the prestigious “Louie Porras Award” in 2015. This award is presented annually to a speaker whose work represents exceptional accomplishments that benefit herpetological conservation. The inaugural award was presented to a team from Brazil whose work in Amazonian biodiversity and field research represented the spirit of the honor.

Louis’s exceptional impact on the scientific community is also commemorated through the naming of a species of hognose pitviper, Porthidium porrasi, in his honor—a rare and enduring distinction in the field of taxonomy.

Today, Louis W. Porras continues to contribute to herpetology as the Managing Editor of Mesoamerican Herpetology, a peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the herpetofauna of the Mesoamerican region. He resides in Eagle Mountain, Utah, and remains actively engaged in scientific publishing and mentoring. His body of work, leadership, and dedication to conservation have left an indelible mark on the field.

– Louis W. Porras Herpetologist & Managing Editor, Mesoamerican Herpetology Namesake, Louie Porras Award, International Herpetological Symposium Honored in species name: Porthidium porrasi