Reproductive phenology and environmental temperatures in the Smooth Newt Lissotriton vulgaris meridionalis (Boulenger, 1882), (Amphibia, Urodela) in a Mediterranean habitat

Abstract

The present work aims to contribute to the knowledge of the influence of environmental temperatures on the reproductive dynamics of the population of the Smooth Newt Lissotriton vulgaris meridionalis (Boulenger, 1882) at “Bosco di Palo” Natural Park (north of Rome, Central Italy). The data collection took place for a long – term investigation from the breeding season of 1995 – 1996 until the breeding season 2014 – 2015 (with the exception of the seasons 2003 – 2004, 2004 – 2005 and 2005 – 2006); the breeding season is considered the beginning of the filling of temporary ponds until they are completely drained. Samples were taken every fifteen days. During the breeding seasons investigated, the greatest concentration of individuals in water occurs in the period between January and May. The maximum presence of newts in water occurs with a maximum temperature range that oscillates from 14 °C to 17 °C and a minimum temperature that oscillates from 3 °C to 7 °C. From the analysis of the data it would therefore emerge that the minimum atmospheric temperature may constitute one of the most significant environmental parameter for the reproductive phase of the Smooth Newt. This data agrees with the observations reported in the present work and suggests that the identified trend can be extended to populations of Mediterranean environments.