Maximizing pond biodiversity across the landscape: a case study of larval ambystomatid salamanders

摘要: Loss or alteration of natural wetland habitats is a near ubiquitous global phenomenon. In the US, legislation mandates that all lost be replaced; manmade rarely have same structural form ecological function as wetlands. eastern these pond often serve water sources for wildlife, but many are also utilized by amphibians reproduction. Understanding features maximize species’ abundance and diversity critical to effective management. this study, we surveyed ambystomatid salamander larvae at 169 ponds in military training installation. Three species were present: Ambystoma maculatum, A. opacum regionally endemic A. annulatum. We estimated larval densities each relation landscape- pond-level covariates. Important factors relating density forest habitat surrounding pond, canopy cover over number within 300 m focal presence fish, slope basin, hydroperiod amount vegetation pond. Density estimates best predicted different combinations factors, underscoring need provide range promote on landscape. Our results indicate providing valuable reproductive resource, future construction landscape will broader amphibian community if utilized.