Date of Award:
5-1-2003
Document Type:
Thesis
Degree Name:
Master of Science (MS)
Department:
Biology
Committee Chair(s)
James A. MacMahon
Committee
James A. MacMahon
Committee
Joseph R. Mendelson III
Committee
Todd A. Crowl
Abstract
Conservation plans benefit from basic ecological information about factors that limit the distribution of focal species. This study illustrates two observational approaches used to investigate the ecology of the Columbia spotted frog (Rana luteiventris), a rare species in Utah. First, hypothesized frog-habitat associations were evaluated by comparing occupied and apparently unoccupied ponds. Data were analyzed using Akaike's Information Criterion to quantify evidence for hypotheses and to select predictive models. Although variable, results suggest frogs are more likely to be found in ponds that do not shrink in size seasonally, maintain a relatively constant seasonal water temperature, and have high littoral vegetation cover. Second, overwintering habitat was investigated using radio telemetry. Only 2 of 15 frogs retained their transmitters through the winter. The single overwintering site was characterized by shallow, open water, extensive woody debris, and a cobble substrate.
Recommended Citation
Welch, Nathan E., "Habitat Associations of Rare Species: A Case Study Using Columbia Spotted Frogs (Rana luteiventris) in Utah" (2003). Biology. 692.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/etd_biology/692
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