A revised phylogeny of Alpine newts unravels the evolutionary distinctiveness of the Bosnian alpine newt - Ichthyosaura alpestris reiseri (Werner, 1902)

The Bosnian alpine newt (Ichthyosaura alpestris reiseri) is endemic to Proko3ko Lake (Mt. Vranica, Bosnia & Herzegovina); its evolutionary history is partially clarified and its taxonomic position remains unclear. Due to severe anthropogenic pressures on Mt. Vranica (fish introduction in Proko3ko Lake, pollution), it has been assumed that this form of Alpine newt is extinct from the Lake. Nevertheless, some specimens originating from Proko3ko Lake are still maintained in captivity in two European zoos and by several private keepers. The main goals of the present study are: (1) to investigate the presence of Alpine newts in the Proko3ko Lake and the wider area of Mt. Vranica, (2) to conduct phylogenetic analysis on found specimens of Alpine newts in relation to other Balkan populations. Newts were not registered inside Proko3ko Lake but several individuals were found in water bodies surrounding the Lake. Genetic analysis shows that these individuals carry the same haplotype as Alpine newts from a captive population originating from Proko3ko Lake. All the Alpine newts originating from mt. Vranica are monophyletic on mtDNA markers, hence form an Evolutionary Significant Unit within I. alpestris that is of specific conservation importance. Results corroborate previous findings concerning the complex pattern of genetic diversity of Alpine newt populations in the Balkans that is poorly understood.

Automated summary

The study reveals that the Alpine newt population from Mt. Vranica is under severe anthropogenic pressure but still survives in water bodies surrounding Proko3ko Lake. Genetic analysis shows that these newts possess a unique evolutionary unit originating from the Lake, highlighting their importance for conservation efforts.