DUGi

Ecologia a contracorrent: lacerta bilineata a nivell del mar

http://dugi.udg.edu/item/http:@@@@hdl.handle.net@@10256@@28559

The western green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) is a reptile found in different areas of Europe. In Catalonia, there is a tendency for this species to be found in the northern region, where altitudes are predominantly medium to high, sometimes reaching up to 2,000 meters. However, a considerable population has been observed scattered throughout the Integral Nature Reserve II, also known as “de les Llaunes,” located in the Aiguamolls del Empordà Natural Park (PNAE). The population under study is found at a significantly lower altitude compared to other green lizard populations in Catalonia. In order to provide information on its conservation in this environment, sampling of the area was carried out during the months of April and May 2025. In this study, points where the presence of the species had been documented and control points were selected to obtain representative data. Subsequently, the data obtained were subjected to an analysis of variance, using a set of previously defined variables, with the aim of determining whether the green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) exhibited preferences in the selection of microhabitats. If so, the selected microhabitat was identified, and the elements present in the PNAE were evaluated. In addition, possible differences in the use of space between males, females, and juveniles were investigated. The results obtained suggest a selection of microhabitat by the subjects, which falls within the PNAE. This microhabitat is characterized by the presence of humanized environments, habitats, and substrates, complemented by natural elements such as tree and shrub cover, although with bare soil. In areas lacking slopes, with few shelters and gradual ecotonal transition zones, no significant characteristics are observed. It also addresses the question of whether shrub cover, present in numerous studies of its microhabitat, constitutes a refuge for predator avoidance. This study addresses the relevance of knowledge about microhabitat selection in the formulation of conservation strategies

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