Characterization of the breeding habitat used by amphibians in northern Morocco

Abstract

Abstract Freshwater ecosystems are seriously degraded in regions like the Mediterranean Basin where water is a scarce resource. Species living in these habitats are threatened due their dependence of water for breeding and foraging. This study investigated the breeding phenology, reproductive patterns, and factors influencing habitat occupancy for the amphibian community in the northwestern Rif, North Morocco. Over three years, we monitored 98 freshwater sites across agricultural, forest and urban landscapes. Monthly data on larval abundance and adult mating, as well as physico-chemical and biotic variables were collected. Our findings indicate that the breeding period for seven out eight species was coupled with the highest precipitation rates and the lowest temperatures. The exception is Pelophylax saharicus which preferred warmer temperatures. According to the length of the reproductive period of each species, we identified two strategies: explosive and prolonged breeding. Additionally, we observed that grazing, hydroperiod, and turbidity influence the presence of amphibian species. Our results highlight the importance of preserving these diverse habitats for maintaining ecological balance. Given the number of threats affecting the amphibian community in the Rif, our results can be useful for conservation of the biota living in freshwater habitats.