An improved microsatellite panel to assess genetic variability of the Italian smooth newt ().

Habitat loss and fragmentation are threatening amphibians by increasing population isolation. However, artificial waterbodies created for livestockmay contrast this phenomenon by providing surrogate habitats for amphibians. Here, we performed a genetic study on an amphibian species, , in a rural area in central Italy where natural wetlands are disappearing and drinking troughs for cattle watering are widespread.