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ABSTRACT Field research on the batracofauna of the basin of the river Torbido (Province of Reggio Calabria, Calabria, Italy) was carried out between April and August 2001, in order to evaluate amphibian species distribution and habitat choice.Three urodelan and six anuran species were found in fifty sites, sixty-two per cent of which were reproductive sites. Rana italica is the most widespread species, while Salamandra salamandra gigliolii and Bombina pachypus are more selective for the reproductive sites. Statistically significant simpatry was observed between Salamandra salamandra gigliolii and Rana italica in small creeks. Natural and artificial small ponds were colonized by other species such as Rana dalmatina, Bufo bufo, and Hyla intermedia. Bufo viridis inhabits mainly lowlands, while mountain creeks are colonized by Salamandrina terdigitata and Triturus italicus. Amphibian populations dwelling in rivers and creeks could be endangered by anthropic impact. |
