Environmental key factors for the reproduction of the natterjack toad in the drylands of Mas de Melons

Authors

Keywords:

Epidalea calamita, Reproduction, semiarid zones, climatic variables.

Abstract

The present study analyses the reproductive behaviour of the natterjack toad (Epidalea calamita) in the drylands of Mas de Melons. A total of six different breeding ponds e.g. characterized by hydroperiod or subtract type- were monitored from 2012 to 2020. The results indicate that the reproductive behaviour of the natterjack toad in Mas de Melons is influenced by temperature and precipitation. The main factor determining the start of reproduction season seems to be the rainfall pattern, which provides sufficient moisture in the soil for the activity of the toads and ensures the availability of water points for the reproduction. However, there is a notable variation in the duration of the reproductive activity - at the start and at the end of reproduction- between ponds within the same year. This fact could be due to the variability of habitats and also to the initial call effect of the first males which start singing when they find a place to reproduce. The call effect could also explain the variability in the number of total individuals caught in the different years at the same breeding site. In addition, the natterjack toad in the Mas de Melons area presents a type of behaviour in which reproduction occurs in several episodes within the same reproductive period.

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Published

2025-05-07

Issue

Vol. 88 (1-4) : 2024

Section

Gea, Flora et Fauna

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