ability to splice mRNA and other genetic material in different ways. Different splices can yield different phenotypes, and thus behaviors and characteristics. Recently, eight microsatellites were identified that can be considered important in the understanding of bimodal reproduction in autumn and spring. These markers can be used to understand how and why the frogs choose to breed and when. Conservation Climate change There used to be a larger concern for the survival of this species, but in recent years it has been determined that they are ranked at low risk for extinction. One large issue facing these frogs related to climate change is the introduction of invasive species, such as fish and crayfish. These new predators can create increased predation, decrease tadpole survival, and thus diminish Pelodytes punctatus numbers. The introduction of American crayfish Procambarus clarkii especially is an example of how invasive species can impact parsley frog behavior and life. Pelodytes punctatus tadpoles have relatively high plasticity, as mentioned above. However, they have been impacted by changing ecosystems and the introduction of new and invasive species into their habitats. Native tadpole predators can include larval Aeshnid dragonflies, or other insects or animals they share habitat with. The invasive fish species, Gumbusia holbrooki, first appeared in their habitats near the Iberian peninsula several decades ago. There is also the American red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii. These invasive predators may have negative impacts on morphological development, studying tadpole growth and increasing rates of tadpole mortality. It only took 30 years for the frogs to exhibit physical changes after cohabitation with the crayfish. Parsley frogs also experienced behavioral changes in the presence of invasive fishes. Because of the recent introduction of invasive species, there is still co-evolution occurring and some scientists determined that there needs to be a longer period of co-habituation to fully determine the effect of the invasive species on the parsley frog tadpoles. They also are occupying fewer ponds annually. From 1997 to 1999 alone, the Mediterranean ponds that typically housed their larvae decreased by nearly half. The biggest threat to their breeding pools is drying, which can be precipitated by man-made drainage of wetlands or construction work in their environments. They also face danger from fires for similar reasons of habitat or breeding ground destruction. The parsley frog has a relatively high ability to adapt and exhibit plasticity (see above breeding and early life behaviors). Because of this,