Ecological and Biological Adaptations of Triturus vittatus vittatus (Urodela) to an Unstable Habitat

Authors: Degani G*

DOI: 10.23880/izab-16000306

Volume 4, Issue 3

Abstract

We present ecological, biological and behavioral aspects of the newt Triturus vittatus vittatus in an unstable, semidry habitat at the southern border of its distribution. In the first rains of November–December (2020), adult male and female newts migrate into ponds that have not yet filled with water and find hiding places under the stones for about 1 month under tartaric conditions. About 2 weeks after the pond has filled with water, the newts transition to their aquatic phase, and sexual behavior and mating occur. No differences in body measurements were found between the terrestrial and aquatic phases. At the same time, there is intense growth of the common water-crowfoot (Ranunculus peltatus) in the pond. Newt eggs appeared on these plants 1 month after the pool had filled with water. Between February 15th and March 14th (2021), eggs and embryos were found on the common water-crowfoot. In the first 2 weeks of March, freshly hatched newt larvae appeared. On March 21st, only small tadpoles, immediately after hatch, were found. A summary and qualitative model of various reproductive stages of T. v. vittatus in a semiarid habitat on the southern border of its distribution are presented.

Keywords: Ecology; Triturus vittatus; Transition; Aquatic Phase; Eggs; Larvae; Embryos

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