Amphibian larvae partitioning in response to abiotic gradients

Abstract

Scientists have a coarse understanding of how adult amphibians are distributed across regional, state, and local landscapes, yet little is known about the finer details of their larval life stage: distribution of species, species overlap, and habitat partitioning. This study seeks to understand how sympatric amphibian larvae are using and sharing their aquatic habitat in response to the abiotic factors that shape their stream environment. The future of Northern California is predicted to be hotter and drier, coupled with unpredictable flood events. Mountain streams are the most susceptible to these climactic shifts. If scientists and land manager want to know how best to support amphibian communities and riparian corridors in these sensitive regions, a baseline understanding of current distributions and potential abiotic and interspecific interactions are essential.

Results

Key Terms: water, drought, abiotic, egg deposition, larvae, elevation, mesohabitat, ArcGIS, smartphone, leaf litter, snorkel, red-bellied newt, California newt, rough-skinned newt, foothill yellow-legged frog