Are all amphibian populations demed as metapopulations - a case study on crested newts (Triturus cristatus)
Final Report Abstract
In the course of this project we have been able to gather an outstanding dataset for crested newts with regard to mark-recapture data, habitat suitability and population genetic parameters. On the basis of these data, we show important consequences for the application of habitat suitability indices and their interpretation and application for crested newts. Moreover, many of our findings concerning dispersal and connectivity of subpopulations challenge a strict concept of metapopulation structure of a typical newt population. Finally, the unique opportunity to follow and investigate the colonization of newly created ponds in the context of a comprehensive study design will provide new and exciting insights on colonization dynamics of amphibians.
