Comparative Study on the Breeding of Bufo calamita in the Present Day Compared with the 1988/1989 Breeding Seasons

Abstract

An investigation into the breeding successes of Bufo calamita in 2013 was carried out to be compared to past data in the form of a study carried out by P. H. Smith in 1988/1989 breeding season. This would determine whether the breeding was more successful in the modern day compared to 25 years ago. This was done by measuring snout-vent lengths of the Natterjacks which would give an indication into the previous breeding seasons successes with the shorter the average snout-vent length the more successful the breeding season. The investigation found that the Natterjacks had still not emerged from hibernation a month later than expected which lead to other data being sought to explain why this problem has occurred. The data showed that the temperature had not been high enough for a suitable period of time to bring the toads out. Dip-well data also showed that water table levels were not satisfactory and this could mean that the breeding ponds dry up before the season finishes which could cause a high mortality of tadpoles and toadlets. The low rainfall levels could further the problem as the breeding ponds could dry up due to the lack of rainfall which could increase the mortality rate of tadpoles and toadlets further.