Population density estimation of Lyciasalamandra flaviemembris in Paradise Island (Marmaris)

Aim: In this study, calculation of population density of Lyciasalamandra flavimembris in Paradise Island (Marmaris), identification of population threatening factors and detection of protection strategies with respect to that are aimed. Content: Individuals of Lyciasalamandra flavimembris population in Paradise Island (Marmaris) were captured at different days. Coordinates which are the capture point of individuals were flagged via Global Positioning System (GPS). Counts of individuals -that were seem for the first time and that were marked before- were used to calculate population density. Methods: Paradise Island is a peninsula that is in Marmaris borders of the city Muğla. The peninsula is 8 kilometers far from the center of the town. Natural marking were used in the existing population of Paradise Peninsula. Photographed individuals were compared with the individuals that were captured in different dates with respect to their patterns and coloring. Firstly seen and marked individuals were detected. Coordinates were recorded the capturing location. These coordinates were flagged in Google Earth and the area were measured. Data was used to calculate population density. Population density was compared with the density of similar species and population status was detected. Results: Species were seen in two different sites of Paradise Island. Density of population were detected 4,74- 12,63/ha. Decreasing population trend was appeared with respect to the population of Lyciasalamandra luschani in Meis Island which has density that is 10000/ha.