Informed conservation management on Bombina variegata
The yellow-bellied toad (Bombina variegata) is one of the most endangered amphibian species in Germany. Populations and ranges are declining for years due to habitat loss. Quantitatively identifying local stock situation, dynamics and their causes is essential to implement effective conservation measures on isolated populations.
Population dynamics and demography under different land use and succession, which potentially affect isolation and dynamics of local populations, are analysed in four study subareas of a former military area (Schmidtenhöhe, Koblenz): pioneer site, extensive clay pit, semi-open pasture landscape and abandonment (former pioneer site). Field data are collected during three consecutive summers (2016-2018). For the abandonment area, comparative data exist from 2005-2008.
This study focuses on:
- Estimation of migration rates between the subareas and connectivity of population
- Determination of age structure by skeletochronology
- Determination of mortality factors (predators and desiccation risk) relating to subarea
- Quantifying carry-over-effects on survival rates from larval to juvenile states
This investigation of population dynamics of B.variegata under different land use and succession will serve as a model study to improve supra-regional conservation.