Using citizen science to protect threatened amphibian populations in
Mediterranean urban spaces
Abstract
Over 40% of amphibian species are threatened, urbanization being a
major threat to their survival. Conservation efforts to sustain viable
amphibian populations within urban spaces may play a meaningful part in
protecting amphibian species. To explore the factors that influence the
viability of urban amphibian population in Mediterranean environments,
we used a capture-recapture analysis applied to a large dataset
collected in a multi-year citizen-science program, focused on two urban
Salamandra infraimmaculata populations, and to a second dataset of two
Bufotes variabilis populations in an urban park and in a nearby nature
reserve. Individuals of both species have individually-unique patterns
of dorsal spots, allowing for noninvasive recapture identification.
Using the salamander dataset, we developed a length-based age-estimation
method and discovered a prolonged period of increased vulnerability
throughout their first years of life, even after reaching sexual
maturity, a finding with important implications for management.
Additionally, the two case studies suggest that the creation of
fish-containing artificial water bodies in Mediterranean habitats can
have highly detrimental impacts on amphibian populations. The study
uncovered population-specific information, such as unknown breeding
sites and population size estimates, of conservation importance, and
demonstrates the utility of citizen science in study and conservation of
urban ecology.