Crested newts (Triturus cristatus-superspecies) as indicators for the quality of pond networks in Salzburg, Austria

0374780 - ÚBO 2012 FR eng A - Abstract
Maletzky, A. - Goldschmid, A. - Kyek, M. - Mikulíček, Peter
Crested newts (Triturus cristatus-superspecies) as indicators for the quality of pond networks in Salzburg, Austria.
Conservation of pond biodiversity in a changing European landscape: abstract book. Toulouse: European Pond Conservation Network, 2006. s. 44.
[Conservation of pond biodiversity in a changing European landscape. 23.02.2006-25.02.2006, Toulouse]
Institutional research plan: CEZ:AV0Z60930519
Keywords : Amphibia * Austria * genetic variation * habitat requirements * Triturus cristatus superspecies
Subject RIV: EG - Zoology

Crested newts (Triturus cristatus- superspecies) are excellent indicator species for the functioning of pond networks. Their high requirements concerning size, depth, structure and exposition of breeding ponds lead to the fact, that these ponds contain a high diversity of amphibian species and other pond dwelling organisms. They are biodiversity reservoirs in a landscape that is underlying high anthropogenic pressure. During the years 2004 and 2005, Crested newt (Triturus cristatus, T. carnifex) populations were surveyed in the province of Salzburg. Historical and current distribution data were collected and compared and a total number of 350 ponds were visited several times. Amphibian diversity, as well as pond characteristics and the habitat settings were assessed. A large decline from 78 localities recorded between 1916 and 2003 to only 24 (18 breeding populations) in 2005 was found. Genetic variation of 144 individuals from 15 populations was analysed using 7 polymorphic microsatellite loci to obtain information about gene flow and allelic richness. The destruction or manipulation (e.g. by fish insertion) of many natural ponds, as well as the fragmentation of terrestrial habitats are the main reasons for this scenario. The increasingly isolated populations face genetic poverty and inbreeding phenomena. On the basis of these data the state of preservation of selected pond networks was evaluated. Strategies for improvement were developed, focussing on both aquatic habitats and migration corridors.
Permanent Link: http://hdl.handle.net/11104/0207615