Distribution and Habitats of the Lorestan Newt, Neurergus kaiseri (Schmidt, 1952) (Amphibia: Salamandridae) in Lorestan and Khuzestan Provinces

This research evaluates the conservation status of Lorestan newt to find new habitats and offers solutions for its protection. In this study, first by studying past researches and inquiring from local people and specialists, and then field visits and collecting information about the fauna and flora of the region and photographing, information about previous habitats as well as new habitats were obtained. Due to the dependence of Lorestan newt on rainfall, humidity, and temperature, changes in precipitation during a year and changes in temperature and humidity were studied, which could help explain the reason for the decline of Lorestan newt. Among the reasons for the decline of this species can be: a) natural threats such as floods, drought, prey, diseases, parasites, b) human threats such as financial abuse, decoration, illegal trade, unscientific research activities, tourists and mountaineers by creating noise pollution and habitat destruction, and adding detergents to water, and c) lack of applied research projects. In this study, 29 habitats were identified and surveyed. The area where the Lorestan newt is found starts from Tang Haft (Lorestan province) to Shahzade Ahmad (Khuzestan province). Habitats of Lorestan province include Tafo, Darreh Gol, Dolshali, Ab Anbar, Nargeseh or Zalazel, Kolchep Waterfall, Abkash, Choobeh, Ashk Ab, Lisaneh, Dol Nisar, Kresar, Moor Dastan, and Vejan Ab Waterfall. Habitats of Khuzestan province include Sargach, Leopard Valley, Karam Ab, Labsefid, Cheshmeh Zayd, Abshare Bozorg, Ab Zaleh, Ab Sardeh, Chenar Mengereh, Deh Sorkheh, Shahzade Ahmad, Haji Barikab, Kol Saad, and Tale Zang or Abshar Shui.  A new habitat has been identified in Haft Cheshmeh village of Poldakhtar city of Lorestan province, called Chalkel, which is located 5 km from Balmak wetland. Unlike waterfall habitats, this habitat has hot dry weather conditions.