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Capture-mark-recapture data on the strictly protected Speleomantes italicus
Enrico Lunghi1,2,3,4,5, Claudia Corti2, Marta Biaggini2
1Key Laboratory of the Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
Ecology
|January 23, 2022
Summary
This study tracked Italian cave salamanders (Speleomantes italicus) using capture-mark-recapture and diet analysis. The data provides insights into population size, body condition, and trophic ecology for conservation efforts.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Zoology
- Conservation Biology
Background:
- The Italian cave salamander (Speleomantes italicus) is a strictly protected European plethodontid species endemic to Italy.
- Understanding population dynamics and ecological niche is crucial for the conservation of endemic species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a comprehensive dataset on Speleomantes italicus, integrating capture-mark-recapture data with dietary information.
- To provide fundamental parameters for assessing the conservation status of Speleomantes italicus populations.
- To enable detailed studies on individual consistency in food preference over time.
Main Methods:
- Capture-mark-recapture techniques were employed across seven populations (six subterranean, one epigean).
- Individual identification utilized visual implant elastomers (VIE) and photographic recognition.
- Stomach flushing was used to analyze prey items, identifying 7077 prey items from 37 categories.
Main Results:
- The dataset includes information on 1283 captured salamanders, 783 individuals, and 500 recapture events.
- Biometric data allows for assessment of body condition variation and growth rates.
- Dietary analysis reveals prey categories consumed, enabling studies on trophic specialization and population-specific diets.
Conclusions:
- This integrated dataset offers a unique resource for studying the population ecology and trophic niche of Speleomantes italicus.
- The findings support conservation assessments and future research on this endemic amphibian.
- The data is publicly available to promote further scientific inquiry and collaboration.
