PUB - Publikationen an der Universität Bielefeld

EAZA Best Practice Guidelines (Striped) fire salamander, Salamandra salamandra (terrestris) is the first version of the EAZA Best Practice Guidelines for this species. This guideline has evolved out of the growing concern for extinction of local fire salamander populations due to the introduction of the invasive chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal) into Europe. Multiple populations of Salamandra salamandra terrestris have collapsed in north-western Europe. Upon the discovery of Bsal, and associated mass mortalities, a captive assurance colony was established in the Netherlands at GAIA Zoo and later also in Rotterdam Zoo. A studbook is managed in ZIMS by GAIA Zoo. In the face of continuous spreading of Bsal into new areas within Belgium and Germany, both countries aim to develop similar ex-situ programs. To ensure collaboration, shared goals and to effectively share knowledge and resources, the multidisciplinary ’Ex-situ Salamandra Group’ (ESG) was initiated by scientists, NGOs and zoos from the three bordering Bsal affected countries. Close collaboration and mutual commitment between all partners involved is the strength of this group. For this ex-situ program, it is necessary to collect available scientific knowledge on genetics, ecology and behaviour, and translate them into practical ways to keep and possibly in a later stage also breed the species. The development of a scientifically based and EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquaria) approved husbandry protocol for S. s. terrestris, as lies in front of you, is a first product. The complete literature list can be found at the end of this document. This document consists of two sections: • Section 1. Biology and field data: this part reflects the taxonomic information and information about the subspecies Salamandra salamandra terrestris as this subspecies has been the best studied of all subspecies and it is the focus subspecies for the ESG. It includes data on natural habitat, ecology, behaviour, diet and reproduction; • Section 2. Zoo management: this part includes suggestions about the enclosures, feeding, social structure, breeding, handling, transportation, veterinary problems of the fire salamander and recommended research to extent and improve this guideline. These Best Practice Guidelines are for current keepers who wish to expand their knowledge about this species to take care of the animals in the best possible way, but also for future keepers need for basic information. It is recommended to consult the guidelines and to contact the TAG-members for any questions or problems.