2005): Use of temporary ponds by amphibians in a wood pasture

den In this paper we describe the breeding habitat use of amphibians in a wooded pasture between the years 2003 and 2005. The temporary ponds are described using a number of pond variables: area (m), maximum depth (cm), presence/absence of aquatic invertebrate predators, aquat-ic macrophyte vegetation, pH and water conductivity (µS). Three temporary pond categories were identified considering their hydroperiod: ephemeral, transient and constant ponds. Eight amphibian species were identified in the area. Three species, Triturus cristatus, Hyla aborea and Pelobates fuscus, breed in the ponds, but not all three breed each year. The number of species breeding in a specific pond is influenced mostly by the type of pond. A switch from ephemeral to transient and finally to constant character leads to an increase in species richness. Neither biotic (vegetation, predators) or abiotic factors other than pond type has a significant effect on the number of breeding amphibian species. Historical data shows that the area was marshy in the past. Maintenance of larger, more stable populations on the Breite plateau could be realized by creating and maintaining a higher diversity of aquatic habitats, regarding both their sizes and hydroperiod