Mitarbeitende

This poster presents risk mitigation measures (RMM) for the terrestrial life stages of amphibians that can be recommended independently of the authorization of plant protection products (PPP). These measures should reduce the risk of PPP exposure, promote amphibians in agricultural areas and compensate for negative effects of PPP at the population level. With the help of a literature review and expert surveys, potential RMM were compiled and evaluated in terms of their effectiveness in protecting or promoting amphibians, their feasibility on a farm and their controllability. In particular, existing measures for ecological compensation and PPP risk reduction were evaluated, but changes in agricultural practice were also taken into account. A total of 30 measures would be conceivable in Switzerland. Of these, nine RMM are proposed for practical application, whereby forward-looking and constructive cooperation between agriculture and amphibian conservation SETAC Europe 34th Annual Meeting 140 is important for their implementation. Some of the measures are already being implemented or promoted, but can be adapted even more specifically for amphibians based on this work. In principle, the effect can be increased by combining measures. GIS analysis and modeling provided a scientific basis for the selection of locally adapted measures with the greatest effect on amphibian populations. Models for the dynamics of populations and metapopulations of amphibians indicated that measures for the protection of tadpoles and especially juveniles (after metamorphosis) appear to have the greatest protective effect on the population. Regionally, the creation of new breeding sites (with suitable terrestrial habitat) is the most efficient measure. At the local level, small structures in terrestrial habitats or on seasonal migration routes are considered to be effective. Furthermore, we analyzed the use of agricultural landscapes by amphibians on a national scale and show where populations potentially live on agricultural areas with pesticide use. This work provides the basic information on where and when which species and life stages can be best protected and how. RMM should be selected and implemented on a species-specific basis. For example, a field study observed how natterjack toads used arable land as terrestrial habitat, as they prefer open ground. Biodiversity promotion areas with open soils would therefore be a promising enhancement measure to promote natterjack toads.