Investigation of the Environment Suited for Habitation of Abe salamanders (Hynobius abei), Rated IA (CR) in the Red Databook, in Still Waterside of the Wakasa Area

摘要

Abe salamanders (Hynobius abei), which are facing extinction, still inhabit the coast of Hyogo, Kyoto and Fukui. There are a small number of habitats and inhabiting individuals. In Fukui Prefecture, the habitats are found in such northern areas as Takefu and Awara but not in such southern areas as Wakasa. In 2004, we investigated the habitats of the salamander in 44 spots of the Wakasa area. The environment of 11 spots among them was suited for habitation of the salamander. However, the habitation was not confirmed in the Wakasa area. Fortunately, habitation of 16 species of rare wild animals and plants was confirmed. Such information of biological geography indicates the possibility that the salamander still inhabits the Wakasa area. Though the salamanders were not found commonly and broadly, we hope that they survive somewhere in Wakasa.