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Demography and conservation of an isolated Spur-thighed tortoise Testudo graeca population in Dobrogea (Romania)

Journal: Ecologia Balkanica (Vol.5, No. 1)

Publication Date:

Authors : ;

Page : 97-106

Keywords : Testudo graeca; estimating population size; density; Romania;

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Abstract

Spur-thighed tortoise is a vulnerable species. The local declines of populations led to an imperative need for conservation. Testudo graeca reaches its northern range limit in Dobrogea region, Romania. We studied a population from this region, which occupies an enclosed area of 32 ha within Histria Archaeological Complex. Based on a capture-mark-recapture study we estimated the population size of 221 ± 12.2 individuals. The observed density was 5.1 individuals/ha. The predicted population size suggests a relatively high density in relation to the area thus raising attention for a future conservation strategy. The population structure shows reduced sexual dimorphism and an unbiased sex ratio, implying a young population structure. We suggest correlating the future archaeological studies with conservation requirements of tortoises.

Last modified: 2018-09-11 01:20:21