Effects of direct human disturbance on the endemic Iberian frog Rana iberica at individual and population levels

摘要: There is widespread concern about the global decline of amphibians, but little known whether and how direct human disturbance might affect populations. The goal this study was to assess effects recreational activities on Iberian frogs Rana iberica, an endemic vulnerable species Peninsula, through observation manipulative approaches. At population level, we found that frog abundance decreased with proximity areas. individual behavioral responses repeated events increased time resume pre-disturbance activities, did not significantly flight initiation distances. We simulated different levels visitation stream banks, 80% 100% decrease in bank use a fivefold 12-fold increase rate, respectively. Recreational are negatively affecting loss spatial temporal availability resources. To reduce level local species, recommend setting up buffer areas >2.5 m from streams or reducing visitor rates fewer than 5 visits per hour (either groups individuals). role should be considered further as potential factor amphibian declines.