Reducing the threat to environmental security through the conservation of biodiversity of territories

Abstract

Abstract The nature of the variability of the population structure of green toads (Bufo danatensis Pis.) depending on the natural and anthropogenic differentiation of landscapes is a prerequisite for solving the problems of protection and utilization of biodiversity. Today, the problem of disturbing natural ecosystems due to human activity is the most pressing one. The paper presents an analysis of the population of green toads (Bufo danatensis Pis.) living in the Pamir-Alay mountain system, southwestern regions of Tien Shan, eastern part of the Fergana Valley. This population is of value for the ecosystem of the studied territories and its natural population, which proves variability if species depending on the terrain elevation. In order to perform morphometric and phenetic analysis of Bufo danatensis populations, the series of 40-90 species of the same size group in various landscape zones were used, preserved in 4% formalin. Capture and observations were performed in the daytime and at night time, depending on the nature of diurnal activity. We have determined the body weight (M), body length (L), length of thigh (F), length of second thigh (T), length of the first (inner) finger of a hindlimb (D.p.), total length of the inner calcaneal tuber (C.int.l.), and the height of the calcaneal tuber (C.int.h.). We have calculated proportions used in Anura taxons: L/T, F/T, D.p./C.int.l., T/C.int.l., C.int.h./C.Int.l. We have determined the features of tuberosity, as well as the features of the pattern on the limbs (on the forelimbs - antibrachium, on the hindlimbs - second thigh) for a green toad. The maculation on the belly and throat, as well as features of a dorsal stripe were individually assessed. The measurements were carried out with a caliper with an accuracy of 0.1 mm; 219 specimens of a green toad were treated. The paper contains an analysis of morphometric and phenetic structures of green toads in various landscape zones of the Pamir-Alay. Following the results of research, it was found that the difference between populations of green toads in terms of body size and a dorsomedial stripe in various altitudinal belts is highly significant; in addition, a wedge-like variability has been identified.