PROPOSAL OF THE MONITORING FOR THE ALPINE NEWT ICHTYOSAURA ALPESTRIS

Alpine newt Ichthyosaura alpestris belongs to the group of amphibians, which is particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of the degradation of aquatic habitats. Destruction and fragmentation of potential breeding and living sites occur due to intensive landscape transformations, construction works, or drainage treatments. In addition, climate change is affecting the availability of water resources, which may result in a reduction of breeding sites. Although the alpine newt is still considered a Least Concern species by the IUCN (2023), is given to disappear. However, in view of the risks both now and in the future, it is necessary to monitor the presence and breeding sites and their protection constantly. The article describes a proposal for research and monitoring methods for the alpine newt. Periodic inventories of complexes of potential water reservoirs should be carried out in search of adult specimens, mating in spring and early summer, and later developing larvae. Observation and scouring using a herpetological scoop to survey the bottom and vegetation of a water body for individuals and eggs. In addition, it is worth carrying out a Habitat Suitability Index (HSI), as suggested in this article.This will allow for monitoring of the local population status and the introduction of conservation measures for the species in a given area at the right time.