SEH grants 2025

Meta Valenčič, Blaž Kekec, Ester Premate, Žiga Fišer, Hans Recknagel

University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Biology, Slovenia

Monitoring endemic and highly endangered olm (Proteus anguinus) lineages in their natural spring habitats via infrared cameras (IR) and citizen science

The olm (Proteus anguinus), one of Europe’s rarest amphibians and a Dinaric Karst endemic, is listed as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List. Recent research revealed it is a species complex with nine phylogenetic lineages that diverged millions of years ago. Some of these inhabit minute geographical areas, making them endangered than even more previously thought. Eight of the nine lineages display typical subterranean traits, including eye loss, depigmentation, elongated limbs and snout. However, one lineage, known as the “black olm”, retains functional eyes and dark pigmentation. Found exclusively in a small region of south-eastern Slovenia, the black olm, despite its surface-like appearance, inhabits groundwater and occasionally emerges at springs during the night. Similarly, one of the lineages exhibiting the typical subterranean traits is known only from a few springs in central Slovenia, where it emerges at night. Both olm lineages are largely understudied, and much of their biology and conservation status remains unknown due to their elusive nature. To study these rare olms, we recently began monitoring them using infrared cameras at springs and have already gathered hundreds of thousands of images. Preliminary analyses suggest that olms predominantly use springs at night, but many questions remain: Do they follow daily, lunar, and seasonal activity patterns? Do their numbers fluctuate with food availability or predator presence? Is poaching a threat? A major challenge to address these questions is managing the vast amount of footage collected. To overcome this, we aim to develop an online platform that will engage citizen scientists in analysing recorded images. Through this collaboration, we hope to uncover vital insights that will bring us closer to conserving some of Europe’s most unique and charismatic amphibians.

Giacomo Rosa, Sebastiano Salvidio, Andrea Costa, Elena Grasselli

University of Genova

Assessing populations’ status and distribution of the Endemic Ambrosi’s Cave Salamander

The Ambrosi’s Cave Salamander (Speleomantes ambrosii), a Critically Endangered species endemic to northwestern Italy, faces significant potential threats from habitat restriction and the emerging pathogen Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal). This project aims to assess the population status, distribution, and health of S. ambrosii across its limited range in La Spezia and Massa Carrara provinces. Using a double observer (DO) method within a hierarchical framework, we will estimate population abundance and density in both surface and subterranean environments. Additionally, we will expand the known distributional range by identifying new sites of presence through field surveys and habitat suitability models. To address the potential threat of Bsal, we will implement strict biosecurity measures and conduct pathogen screening via swab sampling, with analyses performed at the University of Genova. The project’s outcomes will enhance our understanding of S. ambrosii’s ecology, support conservation planning, and provide guidelines applicable to other European cave salamanders. Results will be disseminated through scientific publications and public engagement initiatives in collaboration with Regional and National Parks, fostering greater awareness of amphibian conservation.

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