Groundwater decline has negatively affected the well-preserved amphibian community of Doñana National Park (SW Spain)

Groundwater decline has significantly reduced the amphibian diversity within Doñana National Park, SW Spain. A comparative survey between 2003-2004 and 2021-2022 revealed a decline in the occurrence of all 11 amphibian species present, with only two species (Pelophylax perezi and Hyla meridionalis) still found across more than half of the sampling area. The mean number of species per grid cell dropped from 4.3 to 3.1, indicating a substantial loss in biodiversity. This decline is attributed to groundwater overexploitation outside the park, which has led to shorter hydroperiods and pond desiccation, exacerbated by recent drought conditions. Restoration efforts focusing on reducing groundwater exploitation are critical to preserving Doñana's amphibian community.

Díaz-Paniagua, C., Florencio, M., de Felipe, M., Ramírez-Soto, M., Román, I., & Arribas, R. (2024). Groundwater decline has negatively affected the well-preserved amphibian community of Doñana National Park (SW Spain). Amphibia-Reptilia, 45(2), 205–217. https://doi.org/10.1163/15685381-bja10179