Influence of Habitat Characteristics on Amphibian Stress and Reproductive Success in North Dakota

Abstract

As amphibians continue to decline, conservation efforts are a necessity in management plans. It is essential to determine the correlation between water characteristics, stress, and habitat alteration with anuran losses. Large portions of diverse wetlands across the state of North Dakota are being lost to agriculture at unprecedented rates and as a result, habitat for anurans is declining. Larval and visual encounter surveys were conducted to distinguish the essential habitat characteristics that are crucial during each stage of amphibian reproduction. In addition to collection of amphibian data, macro-and micro-habitat data were recorded at each site. Captured individuals had their blood drawn and water-borne corticosterone samples collected to assess this environmental stress. This study found that surrounding developed area impacts larval suitability of a habitat and stress levels. It provides an updated suitability model and baseline levels of corticosterone and white cell profiles for a native anuran species.