Abstract
The influence of environmental variables on the selection of a particular
water body as breeding habitat by Alytes dickhilleni was studied in the southeastern
and most arid zone of its distribution range. From November 2002 to October 2003,
50 water bodies were monitored in the south east of the Iberian Peninsula. Environmental
data were submitted to a stepwise logistic regression analysis at macrohabitat,
water body typology and microhabitat scales in order to establish the main factors
influencing the use of a given water body as breeding habitat by this species. Statistical
analysis showed that the reproduction of Alytes dickhilleni is associated with the
macrohabitat variable topography, and the water body typology. This species breeds
mainly in permanent water bodies located in mountainous topography in the study
area. These results should be taken into account when populations of this species are
subjected to management and/or recovery programmes in arid areas.
