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

Copyright

Copyright by the authors.

Included in

Biology Commons

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