Differences in Ecological and Genetic Adaptations between <i>Salamandra infraimmaculata</i> and <i>Ommatotriton vittatus</i>

Abstract

Israel is home to two species of amphibians belonging to distinct genera: Salamandra and Ommatotriton. They inhabit various regions, sometimes coexisting and in other instances dwelling separately across different areas, making their segregation challenging. This study compares the biological, ecological, and genetic traits of two species, the Near Eastern fire salamander Salamandra infraimmaculata and the southern banded newt Ommatotriton vittatus, to determine why O. vittatus thrives in a wider range of semi-arid habitats in central and southern Israel, whereas S. infraimmaculata predominantly occupies the coastal Mediterranean region in the north. Salamander larvae are typically found in streams, freshwater springs, and cave pools, whereas newt larvae inhabit winter pools and ponds exclusively. The developmental phase of salamander tadpoles extends over several months, whereas newt tadpoles spend a comparatively brief period in the water, from 1 to a few months. Notably, genetic disparities in the cytochrome b sequence in Israeli populations are more pronounced among newts than salamanders.