Florida has grappled with a host of invasive species that thrive in the warm, moist climate. But one species may soon be on the way out. A team of biologists known as the “Croc Docs” have been working to eliminate the nonnative spectacled caiman (Caiman crocodilus) from the state, and a recent study published in Management of Biological Invasions suggest its populations are declining. Leer más.
In this study, we analyzed one mitochondrial marker (COI) as well as genome-wide data (ddRAD sequencing) from 28 and 41 samples, respectively, covering the entire distribution range of the genus to explore the population genomics, phylogenomic relationships and introgression patterns within the genus Cerastes. Additionally, and to provide insights into the mode of diversification of the group, we carried out niche overlap analyses considering climatic and habitat variables. Leer más.
Comprehensive knowledge on demographic parameters and early life history traits is essential for an effective amphibian management and conservation. Here, we assessed tadpole survival of Alytes dickhilleni in two contrasting small waterbodies (natural pool vs man-made drinking trough). Leer más.
The strong philopatry of juveniles contrasts with the frequently higher dispersal rate in young birds and mammals and shows the relevance of investigating dispersal in various taxonomic groups. Our results provide useful information for the conservation of European pond turtle populations. Leer más.
Most Croaking Science readers will be aware that the Global Amphibian Assessment of 2004 (GAA1: Stuart et al., 2004) found that about one third of amphibian species worldwide were in the IUCN’s ‘threatened’ categories (vulnerable, VU; endangered, EN; or critically endangered, CR), compared to only 12% of birds and 23% of mammals, making amphibians the worst off of the terrestrial vertebrates so far assessed (reptiles had not been assessed at that time). How has the situation changed in the nearly two decades since then? Leer más.
