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1
Villard, Marc-André, Marc J. Mazerolle, and Samuel Haché. "L’impact des routes, au-delà des collisions : le cas des oiseaux forestiers et des amphibiens." Le Naturaliste canadien 136, no. 2 (May 11, 2012): 61–65. http://dx.doi.org/10.7202/1009108ar.
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Bien que plus difficiles à quantifier, les effets indirects des routes sur la faune devraient être considérés au même titre que la mortalité routière, car certaines espèces évitent les abords des routes au moins durant une partie de l’année, ce qui peut mener à une fragmentation plus ou moins permanente de leurs populations. D’autre part, on observe chez plusieurs espèces un effet de bordure suivant lequel les abords des routes constituent un habitat de qualité marginale en raison du bruit, des substances et particules projetées par le passage des véhicules, des substances utilisées pour l’entretien routier (p. ex. sels de déglaçage) ou d’autres facteurs. Les oiseaux forestiers étudiés s’avèrent sensibles à la présence de routes à circulation intense, probablement en raison de la pollution sonore, alors qu’une espèce étudiée s’est avérée relativement tolérante à la construction d’une route de gravier. Quant aux amphibiens, les juvéniles en dispersion de 3 des 5 espèces étudiées semblaient éviter la traversée de routes pavées. Les gestionnaires de l’environnement devraient planifier l’aménagement des réseaux routiers dans la perspective du paysage afin d’éviter de dégrader ou de fragmenter les habitats critiques et de créer des barrières pour les mouvements saisonniers des espèces sensibles.
2
Leclair Jr., Raymond, Chantale Lamontagne, and Antoine Aubin. "Allométrie de la masse du squelette chez des amphibiens anoures." Canadian Journal of Zoology 71, no. 2 (February 1, 1993): 352–57. http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/z93-049.
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To verify the functional hypotheses that link, in vertebrates, the skeletal mass (Ms) to the total body mass (Mt), the skeletons of 75 adult specimens of anuran amphibians (Mt = 5–400 g) belonging to 7 species, aquatic, semiaquatic, or terrestrial (5 Rana, Bufo americanus, and Xenopus laevis), have been extracted by enzymatic maceration, and air-dried. Covariance analyses show significant differences in position, but not in slope, between the anuran species in the specific allometric relationships [Formula: see text]. A Spearman rank test indicated a highly significant relationship between the regression-line position and the level of species infeodation to the aquatic habitat. The relationship is more evident for the Ranids. The relative mass of the skeleton in terrestrial species (e.g., R. sylvatica: 4.4%) can be twice that of aquatic species (e.g., R. septentrionalis: 2.3%). For the 75 anuran specimens, the calculated allometric equation, [Formula: see text], is very close to the one already established for teleost fish. When R. septentrionalis is excluded, the allometric coefficient becomes significantly inferior to unity (b = 0.928). It is concluded that the relative mass of the skeleton is linked with individual and species body size but that the life mode has a preponderant influence. A model that takes into account intra- and inter-specific variations in body mass is developed to predict the skeletal mass of an anuran.
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Kusrini, M. D., L. R. Khairunnisa, A. Nusantara, A. P. Kartono, L. B. Prasetyo, N. T. Ayuningrum, and F. H. Faz. "Diversity of Amphibians and Reptiles in Various Anthropogenic Disturbance Habitats in Nantu Forest, Sulawesi, Indonesia." Jurnal Manajemen Hutan Tropika (Journal of Tropical Forest Management) 26, no. 3 (December 12, 2020): 291–302. http://dx.doi.org/10.7226/jtfm.26.3.291.
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The Nantu Forest in Gorontalo Province, Sulawesi, Indonesia holds one of the few remaining pristine habitats in the island. The reserve is surrounded by human habituation which provide opportunity to study the impact of forest lost on biodversity. In addition, data on Nantu mostly focused on big mammals, as there is no previous herpetofauna survey at the area. Sampling of amphibian and reptile was conducted in June 2013 and in May–June 2014 using Visual Encounter Survey method, glue traps and transect sampling in seven different sites at the eastern part of Nantu. We categorized four habitat types based on human disturbances: high disturbed habitat (HDH), moderate disturbed habitat (MDH), low disturbed habitat (LDH) and pristine habitat (PH). A total of 680 individual amphibians (4 families; 17 species) and 119 individual reptiles (9 families; 29 species) were recorded. Species richness and species composition for amphibians and reptiles differs according to the level of human disturbances. Low level disturbances habitat demonstrated the highest diversity of amphibians and reptiles, whereas as expected, high distubed habitat showed the lowest diversity. Anthropogenic pressures in forest will decrease species richness of amphibian and reptiles. Although most amphibian and reptiles will be able to persist in low disturbances habitat, forest-dependent species will be lost when pristine forests are disturbed.
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Manenti, Raoul, and Roberta Pennati. "Environmental factors associated with amphibian breeding in streams and springs: effects of habitat and fish occurrence." Amphibia-Reptilia 37, no. 2 (2016): 237–42. http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/15685381-00003040.
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Streams are among the most threatened aquatic habitats for amphibians. Amphibians often demonstrate a complex community structure and investigations are mainly performed on pond-dwelling species, whereas data regarding stream-dwelling species is still scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relevance of stream features and the effects of the occurrence of predatory fish on the community structure of amphibians. To assess the occurrence of breeding among amphibians (in Northern Apennine streams), sampling was performed on 57 stream and spring sites between early March and late May 2014. The research process recorded the presence of four breeding species (Salamandra salamandra, Salamandrina perspicillata, Bufo bufo, and Rana italica) and discovered that the community structures of amphibians were significantly connected to different habitat features. The investigation showed that fish presence is the primary habitat feature that affects the communities of amphibians: B. bufo was the only amphibian species not affected by fish presence, while the other species avoided sites with fish. Sun exposure, depth of water and slope inclination played important roles in affecting amphibian breeding. Our study confirms that fish presence in small streams can be detrimental for different amphibian species.
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Krishnamurthy, S. V. "Amphibian assemblages in undisturbed and disturbed areas of Kudremukh National Park, central Western Ghats, India." Environmental Conservation 30, no. 3 (September 2003): 274–82. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0376892903000274.
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Human activities have fragmented amphibian habitats and affected amphibian diversity and distribution, but the ecology is poorly known. A four-year study assessed the diversity and distribution of amphibians in undisturbed and disturbed sites of the Kudremukh National Park (KNP), India. Iron-ore mining and associated activities in the KNP have induced habitat fragmentation. The disturbed sites had ranges of habitat variables clearly distinguishable from undisturbed sites. Thirty-six species of anurans and six species of caecilians have been recorded in the KNP and the total amphibian species richness represents 20% of the whole Indian amphibian fauna. Among these, 20 species were distributed in both disturbed and undisturbed sites, while 22 were found only in undisturbed sites indicating they may be threatened by further habitat fragmentation. Species diversity and richness formed two distinct groups clearly associated with disturbed and undisturbed habitats, respectively.
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Terblanche, Naas, and John Measey. "The conservation value of freshwater habitats for frog communities of lowland fynbos." PeerJ 11 (June 5, 2023): e15516. http://dx.doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15516.
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Amphibians are more threatened than any other vertebrate class, yet evidence for many threats is missing. The Cape lowland fynbos (endemic scrub biome) is threatened by habitat loss, and natural temporary freshwater habitats are removed in favour of permanent impoundments. In this study, we determine amphibian assemblages across different freshwater habitat types with special attention to the presence of invasive fish. We find that anuran communities differ primarily by habitat type, with permanent water habitats having more widespread taxa, while temporary water bodies have more range restricted taxa. Invasive fish are found to have a significant impact on frogs with toads most tolerant of their presence. Temporary freshwater habitats are a conservation priority in the area, and their amphibian assemblages represent endemic taxa that are intolerant of invasive fish. Conservation of a biodiverse amphibian assemblage in lowland fynbos areas will rely on the creation of temporary freshwater habitats, rather than a northern hemisphere pond based solution.
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Kim, Hyun Woo, Pradeep Adhikari, Min Ho Chang, and Changwan Seo. "Potential Distribution of Amphibians with Different Habitat Characteristics in Response to Climate Change in South Korea." Animals 11, no. 8 (July 23, 2021): 2185. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani11082185.
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Amphibian species are highly vulnerable to climate change with significant species decline and extinction predicted worldwide. However, there are very limited studies on amphibians in South Korea. Here, we assessed the potential impacts of climate change on different habitat groups (wetland amphibians, Group 1; migrating amphibians, Group 2; and forest-dwelling amphibians, Group 3) under future climate change and land cover change in South Korea using a maximum entropy modelling approach. Our study revealed that all amphibians would suffer substantial loss of suitable habitats in the future, except Lithobates catesbeianus, Kaloula borealis, and Karsenia koreana. Similarly, species richness for Groups 2 and 3 will decline by 2030, 2050, and 2080. Currently, amphibian species are widely distributed across the country; however, in future, suitable habitats for amphibians would be concentrated along the Baekdudaegan Mountain Range and the southeastern region. Among the three groups, Group 3 amphibians are predicted to be the most vulnerable to climate change; therefore, immediate conservation action is needed to protect them. We expect this study could provide crucial baseline information required for the government to design climate change mitigation strategies for indigenous amphibians.
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Dalbeck, Lutz. "A review of the influence of beaver Castor fiber on amphibian assemblages in the floodplains of European temperate streams and rivers." Herpetological Journal, Volume 30, Number 3 (July 1, 2020): 135–46. http://dx.doi.org/10.33256/hj30.3.135146.
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Once widespread throughout Eurasia and hunted nearly to extinction, the Eurasian beaver Castor fiber has returned to large parts of its former range, largely through active conservation measures. Beavers can substantially alter small, low order streams and their floodplains through dam construction, burrowing activities and tree felling. Therefore, it is presumed they can significantly influence amphibian distributions, species richness and numbers. We undertook a literature review to compare the available data addressing the effects of beaver dams on amphibians in streams of central temperate and boreal Europe. All 19 amphibian species occurring in the study region were found in beaver ponds, despite their distinctly different habitat requirements. Amphibian species acting as pioneers / early colonisers were under-represented in beaver ponds compared to typical forest species. Open country and ubiquitous species showed intermediate patterns. Beaver ponds in headwater streams often supported the entire spectrum of species occurring in the surrounding landscape, and species numbers in beaver modified headwater streams were comparable to those in floodplains of larger natural rivers. In small headwater streams, beavers tended to be the primary providers of essential habitat for amphibians. In contrast, beaver ponds in the floodplains of larger rivers appeared to have less effect and supported lower average species numbers compared to beaver ponds in headwater streams. We propose that beavers and their habitat creating activities are pivotal determinants of amphibian species richness in the headwater streams, which account for 60–80 % of the water bodies in catchment areas in temperate Europe. By creating habitat for endangered amphibian species, beavers and their ability to modify habitats offer extensive opportunities to implement many aspects of the European Water Framework Directive across the continent and to restore amphibian habitats, contributing to their long-term conservation.
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Siffert, Océane, Jérôme Pellet, Petra Ramseier, Ursina Tobler, Ariel Bergamini, and Benedikt R. Schmidt. "Where Land and Water Meet: Making Amphibian Breeding Sites Attractive for Amphibians." Diversity 14, no. 10 (October 4, 2022): 834. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/d14100834.
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The protection of wetlands is a cornerstone in the conservation of pond-breeding amphibians. Because protected wetlands are rarely natural areas, but are often man-made, at least in Europe, it is important that they are well managed to fulfill their intended function. Appropriate management requires knowledge of the ecology of the species, particularly habitat requirements. Here, we combine species monitoring data and habitat mapping data in an analysis where our goal was to describe the factors that determine the occupancy of amphibian species in federally protected amphibian breeding sites. As expected, every species had its own habitat requirements, often a combination of both a terrestrial and aquatic habitat (i.e., landscape complementation). In most species, occupancy was strongly positively affected with the amount of aquatic habitat, but predicted occupancy probabilities were low because the amount of aquatic habitat was low in most sites. The area or proportion of ruderal vegetation also had positive effects on multiple species, while other types of terrestrial habitat (e.g., meadows) led to low occupancy probabilities. The total area of the protected breeding sites was never included in a final model and connectivity was important only for one species (Triturus cristatus). The latter finding implies that the quality of the landscape between breeding sizes is more important than distance per se, while the former implies that the area of some specific habitats within breeding sites is crucial for high occupancies. Thus, increasing the amount of aquatic habitats and likewise terrestrial habitats within protected areas would make them more likely to achieve their conservation objectives. Our study is an example of how the joint analysis of monitoring data and habitat data (based on mapping in the field) can lead to evidence-based suggestions on how to improve conservation practice.
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Brown, Donald J., Garrett M. Street, Robert W. Nairn, and Michael R. J. Forstner. "A Place to Call Home: Amphibian Use of Created and Restored Wetlands." International Journal of Ecology 2012 (2012): 1–11. http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2012/989872.
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Loss and degradation of wetland habitats are major contributing factors to the global decline of amphibians. Creation and restoration of wetlands could be a valuable tool for increasing local amphibian species richness and abundance. We synthesized the peer-reviewed literature addressing amphibian use of created and restored wetlands, focusing on aquatic habitat, upland habitat, and wetland connectivity and configuration. Amphibian species richness or abundance at created and restored wetlands was either similar to or greater than reference wetlands in 89% of studies. Use of created and restored wetlands by individual species was driven by aquatic and terrestrial habitat preferences, as well as ability to disperse from source wetlands. We conclude that creating and restoring wetlands can be valuable tools for amphibian conservation. However, the ecological needs and preferences of target species must be considered to maximize the potential for successful colonization and long-term persistence.
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Yulistio, Aditya, Zulkifli Dahlan, and Zazili Hanafiah. "AMPHIBIAN DISTRIBUTION ON DEGRADATED HABITAT IN PASIR BINTANG AND MANDURIANG DISTRICT GUNUNG RAYA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY AREA OF SOUTH SUMATRA PROVINCE." BIOVALENTIA: Biological Research Journal 8, no. 1 (December 1, 2021): 1–5. http://dx.doi.org/10.24233/biov.8.1.2022.218.
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Amphibian distribution on degradated habitat in Pasir Bintang and Manduriang districts of the Gunung Raya Wildlife Reserve, South Sumatra Province is caused by human activities, namely illegal logging and coffee plantations. Amphibians are one of the components that make up ecosystems that are very sensitive to environmental changes. This study aims to know the pattern of the amphibian species distribution on degradated habitat as a first step in conserving them. The method used is a line transect combination method with an encounter survey or Visual Encounter Survey (VES) with a time search of 3 hours in both aquatic and terrestrial habitats and the coordinates of the encounter are recorded. Trap by using a drift fence and pitfall traps at the affected location and also by using the interview method with the surrounding community and forest police. Determination of the distribution of amphibians is done by mapping the coordinates of the encounters that have been recorded using GPS with the help of the location of the coordinates on Google Earth into the amphibian distribution map. The results obtained are in the form of mapping the coordinates of amphibian encounters in the affected area. The conclusion of this study is the distribution of amphibian species in degradated habitat that have been encroached by illegal logging and coffee plantations are very few types and limited distribution due to habitat destruction and the small amount of food available.
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Lüscher, Beatrice, Lutz Dalbeck, and Dagmar Ohlhoff. "Beaver ponds as habitat of amphibian communities in a central European highland." Amphibia-Reptilia 28, no. 4 (2007): 493–501. http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/156853807782152561.
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Abstract The Eurasian beaver Castor fiber, formerly occurred across the Palaearctic, but was nearly eradicated in the 19th century. Due to reintroductions in the 20th century, beaver populations are increasing and now extend into highland areas. Natural still waters are scarce in highlands of Central Europe. Therefore the question arises, “Are beaver ponds essential habitats for amphibians?”, especially since fishes, predators of amphibian larval stages, also inhabit beaver ponds. We investigated the amphibian fauna of one typical valley in the Eifel, that was colonized by beavers in 1981, and compared areas with and without beaver ponds. All anuran species of the region occupied beaver ponds, including species that were absent (Alytes obstetricans, Bufo bufo and Rana kl. esculenta) or rare (Rana temporaria) in natural waters. Alytes obstetricans obviously benefited from pond construction and the removal of trees by beavers which leads to sunny plots along the slopes of the valley, crucial habitat for this species. The urodelans Salamandra salamandra, Triturus alpestris and Triturus helveticus were widely distributed in beaver ponds. Our results show clearly, that beaver altered landscapes offer high quality habitats for amphibians in our study area. Due to a considerable increase of habitat heterogeneity in impounded streams, the predator Salmo trutta was not able to extirpate the amphibian fauna. We conclude that the historic effects of beavers need to be considered for a proper understanding of patterns of amphibian distribution and habitat requirements in Central European Highlands. Furthermore, beaver-created landscapes will be of future relevance for conservation of endangered species, like Alytes obstetricans.
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Mardinata, Roly, Gunardi Djoko Winarno, and Nuning Nurcahyani. "The Diversity Amphibian (Order Anura) on Diefferent Habitat Types in Balik Bukit Resort Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park." Jurnal Sylva Lestari 6, no. 1 (February 12, 2018): 58. http://dx.doi.org/10.23960/jsl1659-66.
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Balik Bukit Resort Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park (BBSNP) is a protected area where various amphibians habitat. The conditions and quality of habitat, of course determines the diversity of amphibians. This study aimed to analyze the diversity to detect that the amphibians (order Anura), comparing the diversity of amphibians (order Anura) based on different types of habitat and identifying amphibian habitat conditions (order Anura) in Resort Balik Bukit of Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park. This study uses three replications in each habitat type (primary forest, bush and swamp) and using Visual Encounter Surveys in amphibian biodiversity data retrieval. The data have been analyzed using the Shannon Wiener index, and community similarity index by calculating the evenness. Research shows that the value of diversity is still classified as being on the three types of habitat with the highest diversity found in primary forest habitat that habitat conditions in Resort Behind the hill is still ensure the growth and proliferation of amphibians order Anura.Keywords: Anura, Amphibians, Environmental Indicators, Resort Balik Bukit TNBBS
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Nania, Dario, Maria Lumbierres, Gentile Francesco Ficetola, Mattia Falaschi, Michela Pacifici, and Carlo Rondinini. "Maps of area of habitat for Italian amphibians and reptiles." Nature Conservation 49 (July 15, 2022): 117–29. http://dx.doi.org/10.3897/natureconservation.49.82931.
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Planning conservation actions requires detailed information on species’ geographic distribution. Species distribution data are most needed in areas hosting unique or endangered biodiversity. Italy is one of the European countries with the highest levels of herpetological diversity and endemism and is home to several threatened species of amphibians and reptiles. Information on the distribution of species’ habitats can help identify sites where the species is most likely to thrive, as viable populations depend on it. Area of Habitat (AOH) maps reveal the distribution of the habitat available to the species within their geographic range. We produced high resolution, freely accessible global area of habitat maps for 60 species of reptiles and amphibians distributed in Italy, which represent 60% of all Italian amphibian and reptile species. We validated a total of 44 AOH maps through a presence-only based evaluation method, with 86% of these maps showing a performance better than expected by chance. AOH maps can be used as a reference for conservation planning, as well as to investigate macroecological patterns of Italian herpetofauna. Furthermore, AOH maps can help monitoring habitat loss, which is known to be a major threat to many reptile and amphibian species in Europe.
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Nessi, Alessandro, Sara Cioccarelli, Paolo Tremolada, Pasquale Gariano, Maria Grandinetti, Alessandro Balestrieri, and Raoul Manenti. "Environmental Factors Affecting Amphibian Communities in River Basins of the Southern Apennines." Diversity 15, no. 5 (May 4, 2023): 625. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/d15050625.
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The study of the environmental features affecting amphibian communities is a priority task for addressing effective conservation initiatives. In the southern edge of the Apennines (Sila Massif, Calabria Region, Italy), we surveyed the distribution of amphibians in lotic freshwater habitats (eight rivers, 17 sampling stations, 87 transects) and recorded nine environmental variables, including the occurrence of potential predators (fish and Eurasian otter Lutra lutra), potentially affecting the distribution and breeding success of amphibian species. A total of seven amphibian species was recorded (75.9% of transects). Fish occurred in all rivers while the otter was found in four rivers (Amato, Lese, Neto, and Savuto). Illuminance and bank heterogeneity were the main factors affecting amphibian reproduction, while neither otter nor fish presence showed significant effects on the amphibian community. Overall, habitat complexity and coevolution history seemed to shape the distribution of amphibians and their breeding sites, while the ongoing recolonization of the study area by the otter is expected to have a negligible impact on the richness of the amphibian community.
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Plăiaşu, Rodica, Raluca Băncilă, Ciprian Samoilă, and Dan Cogălniceanu. "Factors influencing the breeding habitat use by amphibians in the alpine area of the Retezat National Park (Romania)." Travaux du Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle "Grigore Antipa" 53, no. 1 (December 1, 2010): 469–78. http://dx.doi.org/10.2478/v10191-010-0032-5.
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Factors influencing the breeding habitat use by amphibians in the alpine area of the Retezat National Park (Romania) We analyzed the distribution of amphibians according to the characteristics of breeding ponds in the alpine areas of the Retezat National Park. We inventoried 50 aquatic habitats between 1920 and 2260 m a.s.l. Three amphibian species are present at high altitudes: Rana temporaria, Bufo bufo and Mesotriton alpestris. They were found in 70% of the aquatic habitats, but only 48% were used as spawning sites. Human impacts and predators were the most influential variables explaining the occurrence of R. temporaria, whereas location and pond adjacent terrain were important for M. alpestris. Moderate grazing had a positive effect by maintaining low vegetation or providing nutrients input in the oligotrophic aquatic habitats.
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Castanet, Jacques, and Maria Helena Caetano. "Influence du mode de vie sur les caractéristiques pondérales et structurales du squelette chez les amphibiens anoures." Canadian Journal of Zoology 73, no. 2 (February 1, 1995): 234–42. http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/z95-027.
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To specify the influence of a permanent aquatic life on skeletal mass and bone structure in anuran amphibians, the general and regional masses of the skeleton, as well as several histomorphometric indices of the bones (porosity, corticodiaphyseal index, density) were compared in four ranid species, two predominantly aquatic (Rana perezi and R. esculenta) and two more terrestrial (R. temporaria and R. dalmatina). The relative mass of the skeleton (as a percentage of the total body mass) is significantly lower in aquatic forms. This difference is not a phenomenon of intra- or inter-specific allometry between skeletal mass and body mass (size effect). Rather, it reflects a selective reduction of skeletal volume (low corticodiaphyseal index values and higher porosity), in particular in the autopodia, pectoral girdle, front limbs, and vertebral column of aquatic forms. These results reinforce the idea that habitat and mode of life are selective factors producing a more or less developed skeleton in anurans. Whether a lighter skeleton is a permanent adaptative feature or a reversible response in predominantly aquatic anurans remains to be tested.
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Gautam, Bivek, Mukesh Kumar Chalise, Kul Bahadur Thapa, and Santosh Bhattarai. "Distributional patterns of amphibians and reptiles in Ghandruk, Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal." Reptiles & Amphibians 27, no. 1 (December 16, 2020): 18–28. http://dx.doi.org/10.17161/randa.v27i1.14440.
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In May and October 2017, we assessed the distribution and diversity of herpetofauna in the Ghandruk region of the Annapurna Conservation Area. Using the Visual Encounter Survey (VES) protocol on 11 randomly selected transects, we recorded 662 individuals of 25 herpetofaunal species (12 amphibians and 13 reptiles). Species richness and abundance declined with increases in elevation but only the correlation between elevation and abundance was significant. Neither amphibians nor reptiles were uniformly distributed among different habitats, and species richness of both amphibians and reptiles varied significantly among habitat types. The greatest amphibian species richness was in wetlands, whereas that of reptiles was highest in forests.
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Sztatecsny, M., and R. Schabetsberger. "Into thin air: vertical migration, body condition, and quality of terrestrial habitats of alpine common toads, Bufo bufo." Canadian Journal of Zoology 83, no. 6 (June 1, 2005): 788–96. http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/z05-071.
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Since the end of the 1980s there has been increasing evidence of worldwide amphibian declines in high-altitude regions. Moreover, amphibian conservation has so far mostly neglected the terrestrial habitat, which is essential for effective protection measures. We determined the location and quality of terrestrial habitats of common toads (Bufo bufo L., 1758) in a naturally fragmented alpine environment (Schlumsee, 1105 m a.s.l., Northern Calcareous Alps, Austria) characterized by a high diversity of available microhabitats. By radio-tracking 18 individuals during their post-spawning migration, we located terrestrial habitats 1301000 m horizontally away from and 85390 m above the breeding site. This is the first study to show vertical migration over several hundred metres in adult amphibians. Both adult and juvenile toads completed the migration within 27 weeks and, on their way to the summer habitat, climbed 45° scree slopes and ascended cliffs with slopes of up to 65°. Body condition indices were highest for individuals originating from the terrestrial summer habitat at the highest elevation, which is characterized by the highest vegetation diversity, a high abundance of food, and the highest insolation, probably allowing the toads to extend their activity period for food intake. Our study suggests that under demanding climatic conditions it can pay off for toads to undertake costly migrations to reach high-quality habitats. For amphibian conservation, high-value habitat patches need to be located and investigated to increase the effectiveness of protection measures.
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Savić, Biljana, Alevtina Evgrafova, Cenk Donmez, Filip Vasić, Michael Glemnitz, and Carsten Paul. "Assessing the Role of Kettle Holes for Providing and Connecting Amphibian Habitats in Agricultural Landscapes." Land 10, no. 7 (June 30, 2021): 692. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/land10070692.
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The intensification of agriculture over the last few decades has caused habitat loss, which poses a significant threat to the survival of populations and species. Where habitats are connected, populations may escape the destruction of their habitat by migrating to another one. Consequently, the functional connectivity of landscapes has become an important focus for species conservation. Kettle holes are hotspots of biodiversity that provide suitable conditions for wildlife species (i.e., amphibians, insects, aquatic plants) and contribute to landscape heterogeneity. They are also considered to function as stepping stone habitats that contribute to habitat connectivity. This study assesses the contribution of kettle holes for (i) habitat provision and (ii) the functional connectivity of three amphibian species with different movement ranges, and (iii) the study identifies areas where the creation of stepping stone biotopes could improve functional connectivity. The contribution of kettle holes was assessed using GIS-based clustering within three research areas in Germany. It was found that the importance of kettle holes for providing amphibian habitats in the three studied areas was equal to or higher than that of other wetland habitats. The state of functional connectivity and the contribution of kettle holes differed strongly depending on the species’ range. For the short-range species, landscapes were highly fragmented, and the contribution of kettle holes was much smaller than that of corridor habitats. For the long-range species, all habitats suited for amphibian reproduction were connected, and the contribution of kettle holes was similar to that of corridor habitats. However, the contribution of both was mostly redundant. Overall, the results showed that kettle holes play a crucial role in habitat provision and function as important stepping stone biotopes in agricultural landscapes. The clustering method applied in this study provides a simple tool for landscape planning and environmental protection agencies, which can be easily adapted to analyze functional connectivity and habitat interactions for different species or landscapes.
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Vági, Balázs, Tibor Kovács, Raluca Băncilă, Tibor Hartel, and Brandon P. Anthony. "A landscape-level study on the breeding site characteristics of ten amphibian species in Central Europe." Amphibia-Reptilia 34, no. 1 (2013): 63–73. http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/15685381-00002869.
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Temporary ponds are characterized as being in natural or close to natural states in Central and Eastern Europe, especially those located in forested landscapes. As these ponds function as breeding sites for many amphibians, they represent an ideal target to explore the terrestrial and aquatic habitat preferences of different species. We surveyed 133 small ponds in a forested, hilly region of North-Central Hungary. The occurrence of ten amphibian species and amphibian species richness were compared to six pond-related habitat variables and the extent of four terrestrial habitat types in the area surrounding the ponds. Our results suggest that most species’ occurrence and species richness are chiefly related to pond characteristics, although terrestrial habitat variables could also be a determining factor in particular species. Whereas the majority of amphibian species prefer larger, hence more permanent water bodies with abundant aquatic vegetation, the common frog (Rana temporaria) chooses small, shallow wallow pits for breeding and has special requirements concerning terrestrial habitat composition. This could explain its restricted distribution in the area. Our results suggest that maintaining a diverse set of ponds and forestry management which facilitates habitats’ structural heterogeneity are both important factors for the preservation of the rich amphibian fauna in Central Europe.
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Zheng, Jinghan. "Impact of transportation infrastructure on amphibians." Theoretical and Natural Science 6, no. 1 (August 3, 2023): 426–30. http://dx.doi.org/10.54254/2753-8818/6/20230313.
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In recent decades, the alarming rate of amphibian disappearance has become a pressing environmental issue. The primary cause of this decline and extinction is habitat destruction, posing a significant threat to global biological diversity. This destruction is often the result of habitat fragmentation, wherein contiguous habitats are split into smaller, increasingly isolated patches. Transportation infrastructure, particularly roads, is a significant contributor to the fragmentation. Roads have a huge impact on economic development and ecology, connecting urban areas, rural areas and countries while promoting global economic development. However, at the same time, the accelerated road construction creates barriers, leading to increased wildlife death, habitat degradation and act as a contributor of species extinction. Amphibians are notably liable to road impact because of their unique behavior traits. The relationship between habitat fragmentation, accessible habitat, and populations is complex and multifaceted, with different species responding differently. Therefore, it is crucial to continue the exploration to counteract the problems of habitat fragmentation, the decline in amphibian abundance and biodiversity caused by the development of transportation infrastructure.
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Pérez-Rojas, Diego A., Diego Escamilla-Quitián, María Fernanda Estupiñan-Tibaduiza, and Juan E. Carvajal‑Cogollo. "Annotated checklist of the amphibians and reptiles of the Santander highland, Colombia." Check List 16, no. 3 (May 22, 2020): 611–20. http://dx.doi.org/10.15560/16.3.611.
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We characterize the amphibian and reptile fauna from four habitats of the Andean region of the department of Santan­der, Colombia. Eight species were recorded, including four amphibians and four reptiles. The family Hylidae was represented by two species and had the greatest abundance of individuals at 241. Among reptiles, the family with the greatest diversity was the Colubridae, with two species, but the Dactyloidae had the greatest abundance, with seven individuals. The grassland habitat exhibited the greatest diversity, with five species found, and it was the habitat with the greatest abundance of individuals, with 242 individuals obtained. The habitat with the least diversity and abundance was cropland, which had no species recorded.
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Luymes, Nick, and Patricia Chow-Fraser. "Community structure, species–habitat relationships, and conservation of amphibians in forested vernal pools in the Georgian Bay region of Ontario." FACETS 7 (January 1, 2022): 215–35. http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/facets-2021-0097.
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Forested vernal pools serve an integral role in the recruitment of amphibians in glaciated northeastern North America. In south-central Ontario, vernal pools exist in relatively unimpacted forest networks, but the amphibian communities face uncertain challenges from anthropogenic-induced climate change. We surveyed amphibian larvae and collected measurements of habitat characteristics from vernal pools to collect baseline information on amphibian community structure and species–habitat relationships. Amphibian communities were influenced by hydroperiod length and canopy openness, and the relative abundances of early breeding amphibians were affected by changes in the structure of vegetation communities within pools. Our study suggests that, even across moderate ranges of breeding habitat characteristics, the structure of amphibian communities is dynamic. With anthropogenic-induced climate change leading to more drought-prone summers, the conservation of intact forests that support diverse wetland assemblages will be a necessary component of future legislation.
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Maltchik, L., CD Peixoto, C. Stenert, LFB Moreira, and IF Machado. "Dynamics of the terrestrial amphibian assemblage in a flooded riparian forest fragment in a Neotropical region in the south of Brazil." Brazilian Journal of Biology 68, no. 4 (November 2008): 763–69. http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/s1519-69842008000400010.
Full textAbstract:
The aim of this study was to analyze the richness, abundance and composition of the terrestrial amphibian assemblage in a flooded riparian forest fragment in a Neotropical region in the south of Brazil over a year (2002-2003). A total of 1,265 terrestrial amphibians were captured, representing 12 species and six families. Leiuperidae represented 41.7 and 56.3% of the total number of species and individuals captured, respectively. The amphibian richness and abundance were higher in the Spring-Summer than in the Autumn-Winter period, and these attributes did not change after the flood events. However, the floods homogeneously distributed the amphibian species over the fragment. Our study documented the terrestrial amphibian's use in a riparian forest fragment associated to a floodplain system in the south of Brazil, showing the importance of these habitats as possible dispersal corridors among nearby wetlands.
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Burghelea, Carmen, Dragos Zaharescu, and Antonio Palanca. "Phenotypic indicators of developmental instability in an endemic amphibian from an altered landscape (Monegros, NE Spain)." Amphibia-Reptilia 34, no. 4 (2013): 505–16. http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/15685381-00002908.
Full textAbstract:
The great sensitivity of amphibians to land disturbance is one of the main causes that contributed to their worldwide decline. One fundamental approach in assessing amphibian ability to reflect habitat degradation is to measure their phenotypic changes in contrasting environments. We examined the extent to which several morphological traits of the endemic anuran Pelophylax perezi responded to agricultural conversion in Monegros, an arid region in NE Spain. Specifically, we determined how body size, body mass, body condition (BC) and fluctuating asymmetry (FA) of different frog classes varied among habitats with different degree of management, i.e. rice fields vs. control ponds (i.e. small reservoirs). Pelophylax perezi juveniles showed a decrease in size and mass in rice fields, revealing that early life stages are generally more susceptible to habitat alteration. Adult body condition, on the other hand, increased significantly in cultivated habitats, which apparently indicates a good fitness in this size class. Nonetheless, skeletal asymmetry of both, juveniles and adults was significantly higher in rice fields. Moreover, during postmetamorphic development FA increased significantly towards adult stage indicating that the development controlling mechanisms were not able to buffer the stress induced by land use change. Among traits, humerus, radio-ulna and metatarsal were highly sensitive in terms of expressing significant FA differences between habitats, contrary to tibio-fibula, whose precise symmetry is essential for animal locomotion. The former bones have therefore the potential to be used as sensitive indicators of stress in amphibians. FA showed no relationship with body condition. This, together with the previous results demonstrates that FA is able to capture habitat stress more reliably than the morphological estimates such as body size, mass and BC. Therefore, FA is a useful morphological tool, highly recommended to monitor stress levels in amphibian populations.
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Anđelković, Marko, and Neda Bogdanović. "Amphibian and Reptile Road Mortality in Special Nature Reserve Obedska Bara, Serbia." Animals 12, no. 5 (February 23, 2022): 561. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani12050561.
Full textAbstract:
Amphibians and reptiles are the most threatened vertebrates by traffic, especially near ponds and wetlands. The main aim of this study was to examine seasonal and spatial patterns of amphibian and reptile road mortality in Special Nature Reserve “Obedska bara” (Serbia). We chose a road section of 4.2 km near the largest wetland in Serbia, with two different habitat types (forest-pond and agricultural area-pond). During 2018 (32 fieldwork days) and 2019–2020 (three control fieldwork days), we found 20,457 and 2231 road-killed animals, respectively. We recorded nine amphibian and eight reptile species. Amphibians (93%) were more vulnerable to traffic than reptiles (7%). The number of killed amphibians and reptiles varied between the seasons. Generally, amphibian roadkill was most frequent during the summer, whereas reptile roadkill was most frequent in spring and at the end of the summer. Furthermore, different roadkill patterns were observed during the examined months. In addition, we found that habitat type significantly affects the vulnerability of animals towards the roads. For both amphibians and reptiles, there were significant aggregations of roadkill, and most hotspots were located at the forest pond habitat type where mitigation measures must be applied (construction of tunnels and fences).
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Sheridan, Chris D., and Deanna H. Olson. "Amphibian assemblages in zero-order basins in the Oregon Coast Range." Canadian Journal of Forest Research 33, no. 8 (August 1, 2003): 1452–77. http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/x03-038.
Full textAbstract:
Zero-order basins, extending from ridgelines to the initiation of first-order streams, were sampled in the Coast Range of Oregon to (i) characterize spatial distribution patterns of amphibian species and assemblages along longitudinal and lateral gradients, and relative to three geomorphic surfaces (valleys, headmost areas, and slopes); and (ii) develop empirical specieshabitat models. Unmanaged zero-order basins were hotspots for amphibian diversity, with significant differences across geomorphic gradients. Captures of riparian-associated amphibians were higher in valley areas, usually within 2 m of basin center. Upland-associated amphibians were captured two times farther from basin centers than riparian-associated species, but highest densities occurred only 25 m from basin center. The most useful empirical models related captures of individual amphibian species to geomorphic, disturbance, moisture, and overstory variables. Ordination and indicator species analysis characterized geomorphic and other environmental gradients in amphibian assemblages and suggested spatial compression of fluvial habitats and riparian-associated species in zero-order basins, in comparison with downstream areas. Our findings have implications for headwater areas managed to hedge risk to and uncertainty in amphibian persistence, namely in the delineation of zones with species management priority, and in the maintenance of natural fluvial and hillslope disturbance regimes, along with the microhabitat features created by these regimes.
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Pankaj, Nalinaksh, and Bhrigu Nath. "Amphibian diversity in different habitat of Agro ecosystem in Aurangabad district (Bihar)." International Journal of Zoology and Applied Biosciences 7, no. 2 (April 1, 2022): 10–15. http://dx.doi.org/10.55126/ijzab.2022.v07.i02.003.
Full textAbstract:
Amphibians are one of the key components of various ecosystems viz. freshwater, grassland as well as forest ecosystem. Present study for assessment of amphibian diversity was conducted in different agro ecosystem habitat types of Aurangabad district of Bihar province. Different habitat types selected for assessment of amphibian diversity of this area as: - (1) agricultural and non-agricultural land (2) pond (3) grassland. The data was collected by visual encounter survey and call count survey using line transect method. Species identification was confirmed with pictorial guide and various identification keys available. Collected data was analysed descriptively as well as statistically to find out different diversity indices. A total of 13 species of amphibians belonging to 4 families and 9genera were recorded. This study reveals that the Aurangabad district of Bihar province is rich in amphibian fauna. The district lies between 24°45’ and 24°75’ North Longitude and 84°22’ and 84°37’ East latitude. Further studies may explore the population structure, microhabitat, habitat, and use by amphibians for better understanding and also impose of several conservation strategies in Bihar state.
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Chiari, Ylenia, Arie van der Meijden, Mauro Mucedda, Norman Wagner, and Michael Veith. "No detection of the pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in Sardinian cave salamanders, genus Hydromantes." Amphibia-Reptilia 34, no. 1 (2013): 136–41. http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/15685381-00002876.
Full textAbstract:
Amphibian declines have been documented worldwide. Chytridiomycosis, a disease caused by the aquatic fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), is one of the causes associated with these declines. Occurrence, rate of infection and mortality due to chytridiomycosis in amphibians depend on multiple factors including habitat and life-style (aquatic/terrestrial). Bd infection is lower in terrestrial than in aquatic species, but a fully terrestrial life-style alone may not explain the absence of Bd in some species. Low individual dispersal, decreasing the occurrence of contact with infected organisms, could also favour lower Bd infection. To survey the occurrence of Bd infection in fully terrestrial salamanders with low dispersal, we sampled the Sardinian Hydromantes species to measure their level of infection. Bd was not detected and likely absent in Sardinian Hydromantes. This phenomenon could be explained by a combination of terrestrial habitat, low dispersal, and occurrence mostly in habitats where other amphibians do not occur.
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Dandekar, Nikhil, Varun Kherr, Chaitanya Risbud, Mayuresh Kulkarni, Makarand Ketkar, Srushti Bhave, Pushkar Pansalkar, Shauri Sulakhe, Sunil Limaye, and Anand Padhye. "Evaluation of the Amphibian Fauna of the Semi-arid and Arid Grassland Habitats in and around the Mayureshwar, Rehekuri, and Karmala Wildlife Sanctuaries in Maharashtra, India." Reptiles & Amphibians 27, no. 2 (July 16, 2020): 129–36. http://dx.doi.org/10.17161/randa.v27i2.14023.
Full textAbstract:
Few studies document amphibian species composition from arid and semiarid environments. Scatteredbodies of water in the semi-arid and arid landscape around Pune, Maharashtra, India, could be viable amphibian habitats; however; information on amphibians using these bodies of water is not available. In a preliminary study, we assessed the amphibian diversity and population status in three wildlife sanctuaries and surrounding areas near Pune. We also compared the use of artificial and natural ponds by amphibians and surveyed the amphibians for the presence of the chytrid fungus.
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Moser, Camila F., Renata K. Farina, Márcio Borges-Martins, Iberê F. Machado, Patrick Colombo, and Alexandro M. Tozetti. "Amphibians of the Sinos River Basin, southern Brazil." Neotropical Biology and Conservation 16, no. 3 (August 18, 2021): 435–49. http://dx.doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.16.e65843.
Full textAbstract:
The Sinos River encompasses a wide area of natural habitats and, at the same time, supports one of the highest population densities of southern Brazil. Consequently, natural habitats along the Basin present a high degree of habitat disturbance. Despite of the existence of threatened species, information about diversity of amphibians in that area is scarce. Thus, we aimed to catalogue the amphibian species of the Sinos River Basin from records in scientific collections and compilation of published articles. We recorded 52 species, all with geographic coordinates validated at the collection point, indicating that the Sinos River Basin harbours about 50% of the amphibian species of the State of Rio Grande do Sul. Three anuran species were classified as having some degree of threat: Melanophryniscus cambaraensis, Melanophryniscus dorsalis and Thoropa saxatilis. We also expected other 18 species with a high probability of occurrence in the Basin. This work shows that, despite the intense human impact, the Sinos River Basin has a relevant role for the maintenance of a considerable fraction of the amphibian biodiversity in southern Brazil.
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Fernández-Loras, Andrés, Luz Boyero, and Jaime Bosch. "In-situ severe breeding habitat intervention only achieves temporary success in reducing Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis infection." Amphibia-Reptilia 41, no. 2 (June 12, 2020): 261–67. http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/15685381-20191270.
Full textAbstract:
Abstract Chytridiomycosis, an emerging infectious disease caused by the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), is causing sharp declines in amphibian populations around the globe. A substantial research effort has been made to study the disease, including treatments against Bd, but most treatments have been applied to captive amphibians only. We report a study aimed at clearing wild populations of the Common Midwife toad Alytes obstetricans. We removed all larvae from natural breeding sites (cattle troughs) and conducted two types of severe breeding habitat manipulation (complete drying and fencing for the whole breeding season). While larval removal followed by drying was a successful method of Bd elimination, the effect was only temporary. Since terrestrial habits of adult A. obstetricans prevent them from infection, our findings suggest that, even in simple breeding habitats where all aquatic amphibian stages can be handled and extreme habitat intervention is possible, Bd cannot be eliminated without controlling other potential Bd reservoirs in the surroundings of breeding sites.
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Hamann, M. I., A. I. Kehr, and C. E. González. "Biodiversity of trematodes associated with amphibians from a variety of habitats in Corrientes Province, Argentina." Journal of Helminthology 87, no. 3 (July 4, 2012): 286–300. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0022149x12000302.
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AbstractThe main goals of this study were to compare the richness of parasitic trematodes in amphibians with diverse habits (terrestrial, fossorial, semi-aquatic and arboreal), and to evaluate whether the composition of the trematode community is determined by ecological relationships. Specimens were collected between April 2001 and December 2006 from a common area (30 ha) in Corrientes Province, Argentina. Trematodes of amphibians in this area comprised a total of 19 species, and were dominated by common species. Larval trematodes presented highest species richness, with the metacercaria ofBursotrema tetracotyloidesbeing dominant in the majority (7/9, 78%) of the parasite communities. Adults of the trematodeCatadiscus inopinatuswere dominant in the majority (6/9, 67%) of amphibians. The amphibiansLeptodactylus latinasus,Leptodactylus bufoniusandScinax nasicuspresented a high diversity of trematodes, whereasLeptodactylus chaquensishad the lowest diversity even though it presented with the highest species richness. The patterns of similarity among amphibian species showed groups linking with their habitats. Leptodactilid amphibians, with a generalist diet and an active foraging strategy showed highest infection rates with adult trematodes. The mean richness of trematode species related to host's habitat preferences was higher in semi-aquatic amphibians. Results suggest that semi-aquatic amphibians, present in both aquatic and terrestrial environments, present a greater diversity of parasites as they have a higher rate of exposure to a wider range of prey species and, hence, to diverse infective states. The trematode composition is related to the diets and mobility of the host, and habitat.
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Rosidah, Siti, Indria Wahyuni, Usman, Mahrawi, Dwi Ratnasari, and Ika Rifqiawati. "Inventory of Amphibian Species (Order Anura) in Ujung Kulon National Park." Berkala Ilmiah Biologi 13, no. 3 (December 15, 2022): 1–8. http://dx.doi.org/10.22146/bib.v13i3.4819.
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Abstract: This research was conducted to provide an amphibian (order Anura) species list in the Ujung Kulon National Park, Banten, Indonesia. The study was conducted in June-July 2021. The location of the study was determined using a purposive sampling method, namely based on the type of amphibian habitat located in four areas of Ujung Kulon National Park, namely Handeulum Island, Cigenter, Peucang Island, and Cidaon. Sampling was carried out in the morning at 07:00-11:00 WIB and in the evening at 19:00-22:00 WIB using the VES (Visual Encounter Survey) method combined with line transects. The observation station has an average temperature of 25-30˚C, soil moisture 62-69%, air humidity 80-89%, light intensity 832-1443 lux, and soil pH 6.5-6.7. The amphibians obtained were 10 species from 5 families. The Family Dicroglossidae is the most found. The most common species found were at station 3 on Peucang Island and station 4 Cidaon. Differences in the composition of amphibians are caused by different habitats at each station and environmental factors.
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Walston, Leroy J., and Stephen J. Mullin. "Variation in amount of surrounding forest habitat influences the initial orientation of juvenile amphibians emigrating from breeding ponds." Canadian Journal of Zoology 86, no. 2 (February 2008): 141–46. http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/z07-117.
Full textAbstract:
Juvenile dispersal is important for the persistence of amphibian populations. Previous studies have observed nonrandom orientation in juvenile amphibians emigrating from breeding ponds; however, the environmental cues associated with these movements are not well understood. We examined the emigration behavior of recently metamorphosed juveniles of three pond-breeding amphibian species from three woodland ponds. We found that juvenile small-mouthed salamanders ( Ambystoma texanum (Matthes, 1855)), American toads ( Bufo americanus Holbrook, 1836), and wood frogs ( Rana sylvatica LeConte, 1825) exhibited nonrandom orientation upon exiting the breeding ponds. Furthermore, we found a positive relationship between captures of juvenile small-mouthed salamanders and wood frogs and width of the surrounding forest habitat, indicating that these species are selecting areas with broader forested habitat upon exiting the breeding ponds. Our results indicate that migrating juvenile amphibians may rely on direct environmental cues because the orientation of small-mouthed salamanders and wood frogs was influenced by width of the surrounding forested habitat. These observations support previous studies suggesting that maintaining forest habitat, along at least a portion of breeding ponds, is important for the persistence of amphibian populations.
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Koirala, Bal Krishna, Karma Cheda, and Tshering Penjor. "Species diversity and spatial distribution of amphibian fauna along the altitudinal gradients in Jigme Dorji National Park, western Bhutan." Journal of Threatened Taxa 11, no. 10 (August 26, 2019): 14249–58. http://dx.doi.org/10.11609/jott.4944.11.10.14249-14258.
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This paper presents the results of a study conducted on the diversity and spatial distribution of amphibian fauna in two different habitat types along the elevation gradients of Mochu River valley in Jigme Dorji National Park, Bhutan. The survey was conducted from November 2017 to February 2019. The study aimed to assess the diversity and distribution of amphibians using an opportunistic visual encounter survey technique. A total of 16 species of amphibians belonging to nine genera distributed among seven families were documented during the study period. The Shannon diversity index was relatively higher in the primary forest habitat than in the agro-ecosystem, however, there was no statistically significant difference of species abundance. The decreasing trend of diversity and abundance of amphibian fauna was noticed towards higher altitudinal zones. About 56% of species were recorded in the lower sampling sites (1200–1600m) indicating more favourable climatic conditions and habitat types for amphibian assemblages at lower elevations.
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Bylak, Aneta. "The effects of brown trout (Salmo trutta morpha fario) on habitat selection by larval Fire Salamanders (Salamandra salamandra): a predator-avoidance strategy." Canadian Journal of Zoology 96, no. 3 (March 2018): 213–19. http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/cjz-2017-0064.
Full textAbstract:
Predatory fish can have a major impact on aquatic amphibian assemblages. Knowledge regarding the influence of habitat heterogeneity on predator–prey dynamics is extensive, but not much is published on how the habitat structure influences the co-occurrence of brown trout (Salmo trutta Linnaeus, 1758 morpha fario) and Fire Salamander (Salamandra salamandra (Linnaeus, 1758)). I examined the microhabitat distribution of larval salamanders relative to the presence of brown trout and stream morphology, hypothesizing that larval salamanders will increase their habitat use in the presence of trout to avoid predation. Fish and salamanders were sampled with an electroshocker in 62 instream habitat patches. In the stream zone populated by brown trout, larval salamanders avoided high-quality habitats such as pools, whereas they strongly preferred them in the fishless zone (their densities were ∼10 times lower in pools than in riffles). Brown trout mainly occupied deeper pools. The co-occurrence of larval Fire Salamanders with trout suggests the presence of an effective predator-avoidance strategy. The predator-avoidance response and habitat-use pattern decreased interspecific overlap, leading to the use of different instream spaces. Heterogeneous habitats enable habitat partitioning between larval salamanders and brown trout, which means that the natural characteristics of streams promote coexistence between fish and amphibians.
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Halliday, T. R. "Declining amphibians in Europe, with particular emphasis on the situation in Britain." Environmental Reviews 1, no. 1 (January 1, 1993): 21–25. http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/a93-003.
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Published information concerning the current status of Europe's amphibians is reviewed. A large proportion of species are categorized as endangered or vulnerable. For those species that have been the subject of intensive study, declines are attributed to a diversity of factors, all arising from human destruction or alteration of the habitat. Current evidence does not support the suggestion that amphibians are universally affected by a single common cause.Key words: amphibian, Europe, decline, habitat loss.
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Hasan, Md Kamrul, and Mohammed Mostafa Feeroz. "Species diversity and habitat preferences of amphibian fauna in six protected areas of Bangladesh." Bangladesh Journal of Zoology 42, no. 1 (May 13, 2015): 105–16. http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjz.v42i1.23341.
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Study on amphibian species diversity and habitat preferences was conducted in six protected areas of Bangladesh between March 2011 and July 2012. A total of 32 species of amphibians were recorded under six families. Family Dicroglossidae comprised the highest number of species (12) where Bufonidae the lowest (1 species). Among these species 34% were uncommon, 31% common, 19% rare and 16% very common. Alpha diversity was the highest in Dudpukuria- Dhopachari Wildlife Sanctuary (28) and the lowest in Sitakunda Eco-park (13). Beta diversity was the highest (11) between Inani Protected Forest and Sitakunda Eco-park and the lowest (3) between Dudpukuria-Dhopachari Wildlife Sanctuary and Teknaf Wildlife Sanctuary. Jaccard index of similarity among the amphibian communities was the highest (J=0.90) between Dudpukuria-Dhopachari Wildlife Sanctuary and Teknaf Wildlife Sanctuary and the lowest (J=0.54) between Inani Protected Forest and Sitakunda Eco-park. Fifty percent of the species were found to use more than two habitats, while only 16% species were restricted to a single habitat. Significant number of the species (20 species) were found to use forest edges, aquatic environment (19 species), forest floor (15 species), agricultural land (13 species), bushes (7 species) and tree habitats (3 species).Bangladesh J. Zool. 42(1): 105-116, 2014
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deMaynadier, Phillip G., and Malcolm L. Hunter Jr. "The relationship between forest management and amphibian ecology: a review of the North American literature." Environmental Reviews 3, no. 3-4 (July 1, 1995): 230–61. http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/a95-012.
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Questions about the compatibility of forest harvesting practices and conservation of biological diversity are largely driven by concerns that habitat quality for many species may be degraded in intensively managed forest landscapes. We review the literature on relationships between common forest harvesting practices and the distribution and abundance of amphibians, a group that has attracted considerable attention in recent years because of their potential ecological importance in forest ecosystems and because of reports of widespread population declines. Clear-cut harvesting generally has negative short-term impacts on local amphibian populations, especially salamanders. An analysis of the results of 18 studies that examined the effects of clear-cutting on amphibians yielded a 3.5-fold median difference in abundance of amphibians on controls over clear-cuts. However, research on the influence of forest age suggests that the long-term effects of forest harvesting on amphibians are variable, and for many species these effects can be mitigated if regeneration practices leave adequate microhabitat structure intact. In contrast, long-term effects can be significant in forest plantations, which are often associated with intensive site preparations and stand management practices that modify levels of coarse woody debris and other microhabitats. Other forest practices reviewed for their effect on amphibians include prescribed fire, logging roads, and streamside harvesting. We discuss problems commonly encountered in the experimental design and measurement of forest amphibian populations, including a notable lack of pretreatment data, and outline several aspects of amphibian–forestry relationships in need of further research. Management recommendations relevant to conserving upland and riparian zone amphibian habitat during forest harvesting are offered.Key words: amphibians, clear-cutting, coarse woody debris, forest management, logging roads, plantations, prescribed fire, riparian, succession.
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Bird, R. J., E. Paterson, J. R. Downie, and B. K. Mable. "Linking water quality with amphibian breeding and development: a case study comparing natural ponds and Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) in East Kilbride, Scotland." Glasgow Naturalist 27, Supplement (2018): 49–66. http://dx.doi.org/10.37208/tgn27s09.
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Amphibians have declined due to habitat loss and alteration. Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) provide potential habitat for amphibians in urban landscapes. However, the contaminants they accumulate may cause increased pollutant exposure, and limited research has addressed whether differences in water quality between SuDS and natural ponds might restrict their use by amphibians. This study aimed to explore the effects of water quality on amphibian breeding and development in SuDS and natural ponds in East Kilbride, Scotland. A generalised linear modelling approach was employed to determine sources of variation in common frog (Rana temporaria) breeding and development in relation to pond size, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), chlorophyll and heavy metal concentrations. Key findings included that EC indicative of salt pollution was higher in SuDS than natural ponds, amphibians bred in both site types, but frog spawn clump densities were lower in SuDS, and tadpole development rates were higher in SuDS sites but decreased when aluminium concentrations exceeded concentrations those of surface water standards. However, pond desiccation was a significant element in the 2018 study year. It was concluded that natural ponds and SuDS varied in water quality but were important in supporting amphibian populations. However, water quality might influence amphibian development more than breeding attempts; implications and management recommendations are highlighted based on these observations.
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KLOSKOWSKI, JANUSZ. "Fish farms as amphibian habitats: factors affecting amphibian species richness and community structure at carp ponds in Poland." Environmental Conservation 37, no. 2 (June 2010): 187–94. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0376892910000494.
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SUMMARYOpen fish ponds are a potential consideration in the conservation of biodiversity, yet information on their suitability for breeding amphibians remains lacking. This study examined amphibian responses to attributes of pond habitats at common carp Cyprinus carpio farms in eastern Poland, focusing on features typical of traditional European cyprinid culture. Canonical correspondence analysis identified age of fish stocks, density of predatory Anisoptera and pond hydroperiod as the factors most strongly influencing amphibian community composition expressed in terms of larval abundance. Separation of fish age-cohorts into different growing ponds was decisive for differential occurrence patterns of individual amphibian taxa. The amphibian assemblage was significantly nested: ponds stocked with young-of-the-year fish supported relatively high numbers of amphibian taxa, including endangered species known to be vulnerable to fish, while ponds containing one- and two-year-old carp harboured only more common taxa. These results suggest that traditional carp pond culture characterized by a spatially discrete distribution of inter-annual cohorts includes habitats compatible with amphibian conservation. However, a flexible conservational approach is needed: ponds stocked with young fish produce secondary breeding habitats for amphibians, but presence of large-sized carp is associated with severe species loss.
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Patla, Debra, and Charles Peterson. "The Effects of Habitat Modification on a Spotted Frog Population in Yellowstone National Park." UW National Parks Service Research Station Annual Reports 18 (January 1, 1994): 135–44. http://dx.doi.org/10.13001/uwnpsrc.1994.3215.
Full textAbstract:
Declines and extinctions of many populations of amphibians have been noted worldwide in recent years (Corn and Fogelman 1984, Beiswenger 1986, McAllister and Leonard 1990, Wake and Morowitz 1990, Wake 1991, Adler 1992). Habitat modifications due to human activities may contribute to many of these declines. Habitat may be destroyed overtly, or it may be fragmented. Fragmentation results in reduced area, a differential loss of important habitat components, and increased isolation of populations (Wyman 1990). The persistence of amphibians in areas where modifications short of total habitat destruction depends on the preservation of essential habitat components and landscape connectivity that allows individual animals access to breeding, foraging, and wintering sites (Sinsch 1989). Long-term persistence also may rely on the immigration of individuals from other populations (Pechmann et al. 1991, Sjogren 1991). Although our efforts to conserve amphibian species depend on our understanding of habitat fragmentation and knowledge of the behavioral and population responses to different types of habitat modifications (Gibbons 1988, Groom and Schumaker 1993), few studies have addressed these types of questions for amphibians. Notable exceptions include some studies on the effects of logging (Corn and Bury 1989) and acidification (Wyman and Hawksley-Lescault 1988, Harte and Hoffman 1989, Corn and Vertucci 1992). In Europe, researchers and wildlife conservationists are investigating the impacts of roads on amphibians and attempting to find solutions to fragmentation and mortality effects (Langton 1989), but this concern has not yet received noticeable attention in North America. We lack studies evaluating the relative importance and integration of foraging areas, hibernacula, breeding sites, areas occupied pre- and post-breeding, and dispersal routes connecting these areas. With these kinds of information, researchers and land managers will be better able to analyze, predict, and mitigate the effects of habitat modifications that are sources of amphibian population declines.
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Faizulin, A. I. "ECOLOGICAL AND FAUNISTIC CHARACTERISTICS OF AMPHIBIANS (AMPHIBIA) OF THE CHUVASH REPUBLIC." Izvestiya of Samara Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences 24, no. 5 (2022): 5–9. http://dx.doi.org/10.37313/1990-5378-2022-24-5-5-9.
Full textAbstract:
Data on the history of studying the fauna and ecology of amphibians in the Chuvash Republic are given. Currently, the taxonomic composition of amphibians in the region includes 11 species. The habitat of a species of hybridogenic origin - an edible frog and two cryptic forms - the "western" and "eastern" lake frogs, has been confirmed. Further research is needed on the geographic distribution of amphibians, parasite fauna, and amphibian food links in the region.
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Hernández-Gómez, Obed, Allison Q. Byrne, Alex R. Gunderson, Thomas S. Jenkinson, Clay F. Noss, Andrew P. Rothstein, Molly C. Womack, and Erica B. Rosenblum. "Invasive vegetation affects amphibian skin microbiota and body condition." PeerJ 8 (February 19, 2020): e8549. http://dx.doi.org/10.7717/peerj.8549.
Full textAbstract:
Invasive plants are major drivers of habitat modification and the scale of their impact is increasing globally as anthropogenic activities facilitate their spread. In California, an invasive plant genus of great concern is Eucalyptus. Eucalyptus leaves can alter soil chemistry and negatively affect underground macro- and microbial communities. Amphibians serve as excellent models to evaluate the effect of Eucalyptus invasion on ground-dwelling species as they predate on soil arthropods and incorporate soil microbes into their microbiotas. The skin microbiota is particularly important to amphibian health, suggesting that invasive plant species could ultimately affect amphibian populations. To investigate the potential for invasive vegetation to induce changes in microbial communities, we sampled microbial communities in the soil and on the skin of local amphibians. Specifically, we compared Batrachoseps attenuatus skin microbiomes in both Eucalyptus globulus (Myrtaceae) and native Quercusagrifolia (Fagaceae) dominated forests in the San Francisco Bay Area. We determined whether changes in microbial diversity and composition in both soil and Batrachoseps attenuatus skin were associated with dominant vegetation type. To evaluate animal health across vegetation types, we compared Batrachoseps attenuatus body condition and the presence/absence of the amphibian skin pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis. We found that Eucalyptus invasion had no measurable effect on soil microbial community diversity and a relatively small effect (compared to the effect of site identity) on community structure in the microhabitats sampled. In contrast, our results show that Batrachoseps attenuatus skin microbiota diversity was greater in Quercus dominated habitats. One amplicon sequence variant identified in the family Chlamydiaceae was observed in higher relative abundance among salamanders sampled in Eucalyptus dominated habitats. We also observed that Batrachoseps attenuatus body condition was higher in Quercus dominated habitats. Incidence of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis across all individuals was very low (only one Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis positive individual). The effect on body condition demonstrates that although Eucalyptus may not always decrease amphibian abundance or diversity, it can potentially have cryptic negative effects. Our findings prompt further work to determine the mechanisms that lead to changes in the health and microbiome of native species post-plant invasion.
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Hill, I. D. C., C. A. Rossi, S. O. Petrovan, M. Hartup, F. Clark, and J. R. Downie. "Mitigating the effects of a road on amphibian migrations: a Scottish case study of road tunnels." Glasgow Naturalist 27, Supplement (2018): 25–36. http://dx.doi.org/10.37208/tgn27s06.
Full textAbstract:
The ever-growing pace of road construction worldwide has become a serious concern for wildlife and natural habitats, resulting in habitat fragmentation and increasing wildlife road fatalities. For amphibians, which are undergoing population declines worldwide, mitigation measures such as road under-passages linked to amphibian-proof fencing may be an effective conservation tool, aiming to reconnect natural habitats and reduce wildlife fatalities. This study assessed the efficacy of road tunnels in a recently developed area by Frankfield Loch, Stepps, North Lanarkshire. Three amphibian tunnels, plus fencing, were put in place during 2010 following the construction of a road in 2006 which separated the loch from a substantial area of marshland, including ponds. In 2015 and 2016, we used custom-made time-lapse cameras within the tunnels to automatically monitor amphibian movements and conducted frog spawn surveys. Numbers of common frogs (Rana temporaria), common toads (Bufo bufo) and newts (Lissotriton spp.) using the tunnels were substantial in both years, though the number of toads decreased significantly between years. We found many frog spawn clumps in the marsh ponds, but rather fewer in the loch. A period of road repair in 2015 was linked with both road mortalities and a change in the pattern of tunnel usage. Additionally, amphibians showed a daily cycle of activity, with nocturnal movements most common. These results indicate important connectivity and usage of both the marsh and the loch, and suggest that this can be effectively sustained through the proper maintenance of tunnels and fencing, which also minimises road mortalities. It remains unknown, however, what proportion of the population crosses the road via the tunnels and how that compares with movements prior to road construction.
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OGOANAH, O. S., and A. I. OKUNDAYE. "ANURAN SPECIES DIVERSITY IN OGBA COMMUNITY, BENIN CITY, NIGERIA." Nigerian Journal of Life Sciences (ISSN: 2276-7029) 2, no. 1 (March 1, 2012): 43–48. http://dx.doi.org/10.52417/njls.v2i1.66.
Full textAbstract:
Anuran diversity and abundance in Ogba community, Benin City, Nigeria was studied in five different sites between April and September 2011. Specimens were collected using the Visual Encounter and Acoustic survey methods. A total of 232 individuals belonging to four families, eight genera and twelve species were recorded. Species encountered included Afrixalus dorsalis, Amnirana albolabris, Arthroleptis poecilonatus, Bufo maculatus, Hoplobatrachus occipitalis, Hyperolius concolor, Leptopelis hyloides, Ptychadena bibroni, P. longirostris, P. mascareniensis, P. oxyrhynchus and P. pumilio. The most dominant species was Bufo maculatus (49.6 %) while Hyperolius concolor and Ptychadena longirostris were represented by one specimen each (0.43 %). Diversity was highest in the site with closed canopy (H=1.98) and least in the site with habitat alteration (H= 0.22) showing a positive correlation between amphibian diversity and forest cover. Conservation of our forests and amphibian habitats would help in conserving these little known amphibians which are on the verge of decline
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Stevenson, Dirk J., and Jill Stackhouse. "The amphibians and reptiles of the Altamaha River, Georgia." Reptiles & Amphibians 19, no. 3 (September 1, 2012): 170–86. http://dx.doi.org/10.17161/randa.v19i3.13900.
Full textAbstract:
Field surveys of 59 sites conducted in 1999–2012 and a review of existing museum specimens documented 29 species of amphibians (13 salamanders, 16 anurans) and 36 species of reptiles (1 crocodilian, 5 lizards, 19 snakes, 11 turtles) from the Altamaha River, Georgia and lowland habitats within its associated floodplain. Field sampling methods including visual encounter surveys, dipnetting, frog call surveys, and binocular/canoe/swim surveys for turtles. All were conducted in several distinct habitat types: The river mainstem, the river floodplain (which includes bottom-land hardwood forest, alluvial swamps, and oxbow lakes), and perennial seepages associated with north-facing bluffs. Biogeographically, the Altamaha River is a notable influence on the distributions of many amphibians and reptiles. Pitvipers are mostly absent in floodplain habitats along the river; the absence of what is generally perceived as a common semi-aquatic viper (Cotttonmouth, Agkistrodon piscivorus) from floodplain wetlands along much of the Altamaha River is intriguing and merits further study. Continued investigations and regular monitoring of reptilian and amphibian populations along the Altamaha River, a remarkable Coastal Plain stream and a wilderness waterway par excellence, are warranted.
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Rowley, Jodi, Rafe Brown, Raoul Bain, Mirza Kusrini, Robert Inger, Bryan Stuart, Guin Wogan, et al. "Impending conservation crisis for Southeast Asian amphibians." Biology Letters 6, no. 3 (December 9, 2009): 336–38. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsbl.2009.0793.
Full textAbstract:
With an understudied amphibian fauna, the highest deforestation rate on the planet and high harvesting pressures, Southeast Asian amphibians are facing a conservation crisis. Owing to the overriding threat of habitat loss, the most critical conservation action required is the identification and strict protection of habitat assessed as having high amphibian species diversity and/or representing distinctive regional amphibian faunas. Long-term population monitoring, enhanced survey efforts, collection of basic biological and ecological information, continued taxonomic research and evaluation of the impact of commercial trade for food, medicine and pets are also needed. Strong involvement of regional stakeholders, students and professionals is essential to accomplish these actions.