Individual diet variation in Salamandra salamandra larvae in a mediterranean stream (Amphibia: Caudata)

Understanding the diet of amphibian larvae is crucial for assessing their ecological roles and trophic interactions. This study investigates individual diet variation in the larvae of the fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra gigliolii) inhabiting a fish-free Mediterranean stream. Using stomach content analysis and environmental prey sampling, we assessed prey selection, population foraging strategy, and individual specialization. The larvae exhibited a generalist foraging strategy but displayed significant individual diet specialization, with some individuals selecting specific prey categories such as Diptera and Coleoptera larvae. Statistical analyses revealed that diet similarity among individuals was correlated with body size, suggesting resource partitioning within the population. These findings highlight the complexity of larval amphibian trophic ecology and emphasize the importance of considering individual variation in ecological studies.