Comparison of Red Hills salamander (Phaeognathus hubrichti) populations between undisturbed and disturbed sites
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Published source details
Godwin J. & Apodaca J.J. (2011) Comparison of Red Hills salamander (Phaeognathus hubrichti) populations between undisturbed and disturbed sites. Unpublished report, submitted to the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Alabama Endangered Wildlife Projects No.151, 18pp.
Published source details Godwin J. & Apodaca J.J. (2011) Comparison of Red Hills salamander (Phaeognathus hubrichti) populations between undisturbed and disturbed sites. Unpublished report, submitted to the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Alabama Endangered Wildlife Projects No.151, 18pp.
Actions
This study is summarised as evidence for the following.
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Retain buffer zones around core habitat Action Link |
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Retain buffer zones around core habitat
A replicated, site comparison study in 2010–2011 of 15 sites in commercial forest in Alabama, USA (Godwin & Apodaca 2012) found that where buffers along ridge tops were retained, Red Hills salamanders Phaeognathus hubrichti had greater abundance, body condition and genetic diversity compared to unbuffered sites. Burrow density was significantly higher in buffered habitat (0.7 vs 0.4/m2) and individuals maintained a better body condition (mass/length: 0.09 vs 0.08) with no difference between sexes. In terms of genetic diversity, allelic richness was significantly higher in buffered compared to unbuffered woodland (82 vs 70 alleles). However, heterozygosity and inbreeding coefficients did not differ between sites. Burrows were more clumped in buffered habitat. Seven sites with ridge top buffers and eight unbuffered sites were selected. Transects were walked to estimate burrow density and distribution. Salamanders were caught, measured and tissue samples taken from 110 animals from ten sites for genetic analysis.
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