The Herpetological Journal

pp.509-511

Authors: Fiorenza Accordi, Ariela Massarek, Giovani Nobili

Abstract: The annual cycle of a population of Smooth newts ( Triturus vulgaris meridionalis) was studied at a temporary pond in Central Italy. Timing of migration differs from that described in northern countries. Immigration and reproduction take place as soon as weather conditions are favourable (December). males arriving earlier than females. Emigration lasts a short period (April-May) and ends before pond desiccation (.June). Summer drought is therefore not a limiting fact or for adult activity as it is for larval survival. The aquatic period is short compared to that of northern populations and during the summer terrestrial phase probably little activitv occurs. Males exceed females in the breeding population. In particularly dry conditions not all the female population reaches the pond. The average growth rate during the aquatic phase is approximately 1mm. An hypothesis on the inn uence of environmental conditions on adult body size is suggested.