ARTIFICIAL WATER SITES – GOOD PRACTICE OR TRAP FOR AMPHIBIANS: A CASE STUDY FROM BANJANI AND GOLIJA (NIKŠIĆ, MONTENEGRO)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63356/asb.2026.004Keywords:
amphibians, AWS, ecological trap, karst landscape, conservation, MontenegroAbstract
Artificial water sites (AWSs) are being increasingly constructed in the karst regions of Banjani and Golija (Montenegro) to support livestock farming and alleviate water scarcity. This study assessed their importance for amphibians and evaluated potential negative effects on wildlife. Field surveys conducted between April and July 2025 covered 19 AWSs, where seven amphibian species were recorded. The most widespread species was Bufo bufo, present in 13 reservoirs. Amphibians were not recorded in the only two surveyed water bodies where fish had been introduced. Despite their value as breeding habitats, several AWSs contained dead or trapped amphibians, particularly Bufo bufo, due to steep walls and smooth waterproof linings that prevented animals from escaping. Similar problems were observed in other vertebrates, including Natrix natrix and Erinaceus roumanicus. These findings suggest that AWSs can function both as important surrogate habitats and as ecological traps. Incorporating wildlife-friendly features such as escape ramps and textured surfaces would significantly improve their conservation value. The study highlights the need to integrate biodiversity considerations into the planning and management of rural water infrastructure in Montenegro.
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