Degree Name
MS (Master of Science)
Program
Biology
Date of Award
8-2001
Committee Chair or Co-Chairs
Fred J. Alsop III
Committee Members
Rebecca A. Pyles, Dan M. Johnson
Abstract
Declines in amphibian populations have prompted study of their ecology and distribution. The purpose of this study was to survey two sites located within different physiographic and one herpetofaunal region of Northeast Tennessee, comparing species composition and activity. The first, Henderson Wetland, is in the Appalachian Ridge and Valley physiographic region. The second, John's Bog, is in the Blue Ridge. Survey methods included random walks, aural surveys, and point source collections during a 16-month period (February 1999 to May 2000).
Nine caudate (Plethodontidae) and one anuran species (Ranidae) were found in John's Bog. Seven caudate (Ambystomatidae, Plethodontidae, Salamandridae) and five anuran species (Hylidae, Ranidae) were found in Henderson Wetland. Assemblages were compared using an index of community similarity.
Sites differed regarding amphibians detected. Temporal activity was not compared because of different species compositions. Instead, temporal data were compared to literature. Data will be used in future amphibian studies and site management.
Document Type
Thesis - unrestricted
Recommended Citation
Crockett, Marquette Elaine, "Survey and Comparison of Amphibian Assemblages in Two Physiographic Regions of Northeast Tennessee." (2001). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 35. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/35
Copyright
Copyright by the authors.