Identifying Key Microhabitats for the Conservation of the Critically Endangered Patagonia Frog ( <scp> <i>Atelognathus patagonicus</i> </scp> ) Through Occupancy Modelling

ABSTRACT The Patagonia Frog ( Atelognathus patagonicus ) is endemic to a lagoon system in northwestern Argentine Patagonia. Laguna Blanca National Park includes 10 of the 23 lagoons historically known to harbour the species. During summer, we conducted surveys within the park in nine of these lagoons that retained water, sampling a total of 176 sites across three repeated visits. To develop occupancy models, we measured four site covariates (rock cover, vegetation cover, shore distance and water depth). Shore distance was categorized into three fixed values representing sites located in the water, on the shoreline and on land. We detected individuals in 10% of the surveyed sites and in eight of the nine lagoons. Sites in the water and along the shoreline showed the highest occupancy probability values, consistent with the species' aquatic lifestyle. The best‐supported model included all four covariates, showing a positive relationship with rock and vegetation cover, and a negative relationship with depth and distance from the shoreline. Among all covariates, rock cover showed the strongest positive relationship with occupancy. Therefore, conservation actions should prioritize the protection of existing rock structures, while also addressing other key threats such as exotic fish and livestock grazing. Our findings provide key insights into habitat use and offer recommendations for strengthening habitat‐based conservation strategies that promote the long‐term persistence of the Patagonia Frog.