HERP-ER Biodiversity

Herpetofaunal Diversity and Conservation in Emilia-Romagna

Doctoral research dedicated to monitoring amphibians and reptiles, with a particular emphasis on threatened or locally rare species. The study aims to enhance understanding of species distribution and conservation status, addressing critical threats such as habitat degradation and the introduction of invasive species like the North American turtle, Trachemys scripta. A key aspect of the research is its integration with and support for other initiatives, including LIFE URCA PROEMYS and “Fishing 4 Biodiversity.”

A partnership uniting Foreste per Sempre OdV, UNIMORE, and the Parks and Biodiversity Management Authority of Central Emilia

Project Title

HERP-ER

Herpetofaunal Diversity and Conservation in Emilia-Romagna

1. Introduction

Amphibians and reptiles are vital to biodiversity, serving key roles in both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Despite their importance, these groups face significant threats worldwide and locally. Factors such as habitat destruction, fragmentation, invasive species, and the rise of emerging pathogens continue to endanger their survival.

In the Emilia-Romagna Region (RER), existing knowledge on species distribution and conservation status has become outdated. Over recent decades, threats to biodiversity have both increased and intensified, leading to a significant transformation of the environmental landscape. This is especially evident in wetlands, which serve as critical habitats for much of the herpetofauna targeted by the project.

Central Emilia, encompassing the provinces of Modena and Reggio Emilia, boasts numerous valuable natural areas, yet remains largely overlooked in studies of this underappreciated segment of vertebrate fauna. This lack of research not only impedes deeper scientific understanding but also poses significant challenges to the development of effective and actionable conservation strategies.

This initiative arises from the partnership between the Foreste per Sempre OdV association, the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (UNIMORE), and the Management Body for Parks and Biodiversity “Central Emilia” (EPBEC). Its primary goal is to advance the study, monitoring, and preservation of amphibians and reptiles, with a special focus on the Modena and Reggio Emilia regions.

2. Objectives

The project aims to:

Gather up-to-date information on the distribution of reptiles and amphibians in the Emilia-Romagna Region through specialized surveys and the integration of Citizen Science platforms utilizing tailored projects.
Track the presence, distribution, and conservation status of amphibian and reptile populations across the provinces of Modena and Reggio Emilia, with a specific focus on threatened, endemic, and understudied species.

Track the presence, distribution, and conservation status of amphibian and reptile populations across the provinces of Modena and Reggio Emilia, with a specific focus on threatened, endemic, and understudied species.
Help minimize or eliminate the invasive alien species T. scripta from multiple water bodies across the RER as part of the LIFE URCA PROEMYS initiative.

To explore the distribution and conduct a genetic analysis of the Apennine frog (Rana italica) in the hilly regions of Central Emilia
Exploring the Role of Ponds and Small Wetlands in Supporting Batrachofauna in the Modena Apennines
Analyze the factors and key challenges influencing the coexistence of the three newt species—Triturus carnifex, Lissotriton vulgaris, and Ichthyosaura alpestris—within the specified aquatic habitats.

Encourage a holistic approach to conservation by fostering collaboration among management organizations, scientific institutions, dedicated volunteers, and engaged citizens.
Formulate strategic guidelines and implement management proposals aimed at safeguarding species and habitats within the protected areas managed by the Emilia Central Parks Authority (EPBEC). Focus on preserving biodiversity, promoting ecological balance, and ensuring sustainable practices.

3. Area of intervention

The project is carried out in the Emilia-Romagna Region, focusing specifically on the “Emilia Centrale macroarea” and the protected areas overseen by the Management Body for Parks and Biodiversity Emilia Centrale.

Priority areas include:

Sassoguidano Oriented Nature Reserve
Secchia River Expansion Basin Oriented Nature Reserve
Regional Park of the Sassi of Roccamalatina
Regional Park of the High Modena Apennines
Protected Natural and Semi-Natural Landscape of the Reggio Emilia Hills and related sites of the Natura 2000 Network
Residual wetlands and watercourses of high ecological value

4. Collaborations

The project relies on a well-organized partnership among three entities, each bringing unique and complementary expertise:

Forests Forever OdV

General coordination of activities
Coordination of volunteers and awareness-raising activities
Data collection, storage and management

University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (UNIMORE)

Scientific and methodological support
Genetic analysis
Field research activities and validation of results

Management Body for Parks and Biodiversity – Central Emilia

Data integration in the management framework of protected areas
Logistics and authorization collaboration for access to protected areas
Support in disseminating results and involving local entities

The project may also avail itself of the collaboration of local associations, environmental volunteer groups and the like, in particular for Citizen Science activities and broad-spectrum data collection.

5. Disclosure and communication

Sharing project outcomes is a key focus. To achieve this, the following steps are planned:

Preparation of the Final Public Report: Technical Insights and Informative Summary
Stay Updated with the Latest News on the FPS Association Website and Social Media Channels
Workshops and Public Forums, often in partnership with other organizations
Active Citizenship through Citizen Science Projects and Collaborative Monitoring
Collaboration in Publishing Scientific Articles and Technical Reports between FPS, UNIMORE, and EPBEC

6. Final considerations

Amid a growing environmental crisis marked by climate change, urbanization, and accelerating biodiversity loss, the need to intensify efforts in studying, monitoring, and safeguarding the most fragile elements of ecosystems has never been more critical.

Amphibians and reptiles, though frequently overshadowed by other wildlife groups, serve as vital indicators of the health of natural and semi-natural ecosystems. Their decline signals broader patterns of environmental degradation, acting as an early warning system for ecological imbalance.

This project represents a tangible and effective partnership between a third-sector organization, academia, and public environmental management. It brings together scientific expertise, in-depth knowledge of the territory, and a shared commitment to action. The dual goal is clear: to generate valuable, up-to-date data for conservation efforts while fostering a deeper connection between the community and nature. By promoting a culture of awareness, participation, and responsibility, it aims to nurture a more engaged and mindful approach to biodiversity.

Knowledge, collaboration, and decisive action are essential for creating effective, sustainable protection strategies. This project aims to take a meaningful step toward that goal.