A functional analysis of streamside habitat use by southern Appalachian salamanders: Implications for riparian forest management

摘要: Abstract The appropriate management of streamside forests and use riparian strips is poorly resolved for many systems because a lack understanding the extent to which function as environmental buffers aquatic species versus core (essential) habitat semi-aquatic terrestrial species. We studied in western North Carolina eastern Tennessee, USA, help delineate their functional value plethodontid salamanders. established 30 m × 40 m plots at 17 sites (823–1716 m elevation) unmanaged with closed canopies. Plots contained portion seep or first-order stream along one edge typically extended 36–38 m into adjoining forest. examined habitats based on captures during area-constrained searches cover objects. observed 6423 salamanders belonging 7 terrestrial-breeding 12 aquatic-breeding Terrestrial-breeders (primarily Plethodon spp.) comprised 37% specimens were more abundant higher elevations. Aquatic-breeders Desmognathus increased proportionate habitat, but declined overall abundance elevation. Catches aquatic-breeders greatest within 8 m (49% total catch aquatic-breeders), particularly low elevation sites. zone provided terrestrial-breeder ( D. wrighti ) six spp., Gyrinophilus porphyriticus Eurycea wilderae that broadly distributed throughout plots, acted an buffer four highly spp.). remaining terrestrial-breeders evenly across suggesting would important source populations recolonization following timbering land. Because vulnerability effects, effective southern Appalachian may require addition protect immediately adjoins streams seeps.