Extreme weather event disrupts reproduction of an isolated western spadefoot toad population, Pelobates cultripes (Cuvier, 1829), at its southern range limit

Extreme weather event disrupts reproduction of an isolated western spadefoot toad population, Pelobates cul-tripes (Cuvier, 1829), at its southern range limit. Pelobates cultripes can be considered among those amphibians most affected by climate change in Spain. Its long larval period and predicted shorter pond hydroperiods in its temporary breeding ponds may ultimately reduce population recruitment. We conducted surveys during its breeding season 2021-2022 in order to analyse one of the last remaining urban populations in its southern limit (coastal Malaga province). We recorded a decrease in rainfall and an increase in temperature compared to previous years. Although the species shortened its larval period in comparison with that previously report-ed, no post-metamorphic juveniles were observed. This interruption in reproduction highlights the need for improved monitoring of these isolated amphibian populations as it could be an early warning sign of global changes in the Mediterranean region.

Automated summary

An extreme weather event has disrupted the reproduction of a western spadefoot toad population at its southern range limit in Spain. This species, Pelobates cultripes, is highly impacted by climate change, and the predicted shorter breeding pond hydroperiods may reduce population recruitment. Surveys conducted during the breeding season of 2021-2022 in coastal Malaga province showed a decrease in rainfall and an increase in temperature, leading to no post-metamorphic juveniles being observed. This interruption in reproduction calls for improved monitoring of isolated amphibian populations as an early warning sign of global changes in the Mediterranean region.