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Spatio-temporal Bias in the Perceived Distribution of the European Pond Turtle, Emys orbicularis (Linnaeus, 1758), in Romania

Abstract:

The present study comprises an updated distribution of Emys orbicularis in Romania that emphasizes the spatio-temporal sampling. We have compiled a distribution database consisting of 866 E. orbicularis occurrence records in Romania, based on published data (76.4%), museum collections (2.8%) and personal field data (20.8%). Emys orbicularis holds an occupancy area of only 6% of Romania’s territory aggregated in 603 5×5 km UTM cells. Out of these cells, 74% have only one record and 26% have two or more records. The altitudinal range is between 0–903 m a.s.l. There are temporal inconsistencies in terms of sampling effort with 50% of the data recorded from 1926 to 1996, and 50% recorded after 1996. We analyzed the spatial bias in the species distribution patterns using the Getis-Ord Gi* statistic on the number of records per UTM cell. The results revealed over-sampled (e.g., protected areas from Dobrogea Region) and possibly under-sampled regions (e.g., Danube floodplain) suggesting that the present distribution data are not reflecting the real distribution range. Understanding these distribution patterns has useful implications in future conservation policies and spatial planning.