Analysis of the Anurian populations in the Sulzkar-Alm area (National Park Gesäuse)

Master thesis at the Karl-Franzens-University Graz The most common species in the study area was the grass frog (Rana temporaria), followed by the Earth’s toad (Bufo bufo). Of the yellow abdomen (Bombina variegata), only five individuals could be detected and, unlike the other two species, no signs of reproduction could be observed. In the course of the observations, it turned out that the Sulzkaralm could be divided into 3 areas on the basis of the existing ponds. At the spawning waters, where possible, immigration, water stay, spawning phase, embryonic and larval development, as well as the metamorphosis of Rana temporaria and Bufo bufo were studied and compared together with precipitation and temperature data. In order to obtain information about the summer habitats of each species, all individuals observed outside the water were additionally included. An evaluation of all the waters examined according to nature conservation aspects was carried out, whereby the populations were first evaluated on the basis of the individual density and the reproductive success and on the basis of the degree of hazard and the aquatic or terrestrial habitat. Finally, possible protection measures for animals and their habitats were identified and pointed out that all measures taken to protect amphibians in the future would also be important for regular checks and ongoing monitoring.