| Unique topography, geology, and anthropogenic influences have created varied aquatic environments (ponds, caves, streams, etc,) within the Ozark National Forest, Arkansas, upon which amphibians depend. Even though the Ozark amphibian fauna is well-documented, little research has been conducted on these animals in this forested region. It is important to learn about population levels, distributions, life histories, and habitat requirements of Ozark amphibians in order to recommend proper habitat management. This influenced my decision to study the importance of microhabitats (ponds and caves) used by amphibians within a mixed hardwood forest with a scattering of open fields and pastures. Ponds supported 13 amphibian species, including 10 anurans and 3 salamander species. Species richness patterns of pond breeding amphibians showed that pond placement (woodland, edge, and pasture) within the landscape was very important. Salamanders, especially Ambystoma maculatum, were heavily influenced by amount of wooded area surrounding each pond, but higher amphibian species richness actually occurred at ponds located at the edge of forests. Pond depth also influenced amphibian species use, where some species preferred shallow ponds (Pseudacris triseriata) whereas other species selected deeper ponds (Rana catesbeiana and Rana clamitans). Furthermore, this project documented the negative influence that fish have on most amphibian species. In cave surveys, six species of salamanders were observed, where Eurycea lucifuga, Plethodon albagula , and Plethodon angusticlavius were the most common. Seasonal and spatial patterns of cave use by salamanders were primarily influenced by environmental factors (temperature and relative humidity) and the ecological requirements of the salamanders (stream distance). Salamanders inhibiting caves were more likely to be found in caves with cooler temperatures and higher relative humidity, especially during summer and autumn months. In addition, this was the first documented report of egg deposition by Plethodon angusticlavius and confirmed speculations on the reproductive habits and nesting behavior that was previously unknown for an endemic Ozark salamander. Future conservation strategies for maintaining amphibian biodiversity should incorporate the importance of ponds and caves within the landscape. With the continual decline of amphibians worldwide, ponds and caves should receive increased attention as to their role in amphibian conservation. |
