Project Title: PROTEUS – Olm Conservation Project (Proteus anguinus)

Partners: Croatian Herpetological Society HYLA, Croatian Society for Biological Research HDBI, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb

Project Start Year: 2013
Status: Active
Species: Olm (Proteus anguinus)
IUCN Red List Status: Vulnerable (VU)
Species Status in Croatia (Red List): Vulnerable (VU)

The Olm Conservation Project, initiated in 2012, aims to safeguard this sensitive species. The olm, Europe’s only subterranean amphibian, faces threats from habitat changes, particularly floods occurring every spring. These floods can displace many olms from their natural habitats near Trilj, close to Sinj.

The project focuses on protecting this area by building a fence to prevent further loss of individuals. Displaced animals are counted and collected for care at the Zagreb Zoo, where further research on their biology and health is conducted. Given the limited knowledge about the species, this research component is crucial for gathering data on the olms’ behavior, feeding habits, and living conditions.

The veterinary aspect of the project concentrates on identifying pathogens carried by olms and assessing their risks to health. The research includes studying microorganisms that could negatively impact olms under adverse conditions, such as displacement from underground habitats. Particular attention is given to pathogens like Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) and Ranavirus, known to cause mass amphibian mortality.

The project also aims to raise public awareness about the significance of the olm, its habitat, and the need for conservation. Furthermore, the project encompasses developing a species management plan and an action plan.

This initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Croatian Herpetological Society (HYLA), the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in Zagreb, and the Biological Research Association (BIOM). It is supported by the MAVA Foundation, which has provided funding for the facilities needed to care for the olms in the zoo. This project represents a vital step towards preserving Croatia’s unique biological diversity.

For more information about this unique subterranean amphibian species, please see the brochure: LINK

Summary:
The Olm Protection Project (Proteus anguinus) began in 2012 to investigate the species’ biology, breeding, and health while also protecting its habitat. Through collaboration among various institutions, the project includes rescuing individuals from flooded areas, establishing protective measures in habitats, and raising public awareness about the conservation of this unique species. These efforts are expected to contribute to an effective management and protection plan for the olm in Croatia.