RIS ID
78711
Abstract
Micrometeorological factors can strongly influence calling activity in frogs, but relatively little empirical evidence has examined possible relationships in Australian species. Such information is important when using surveys to detect species for management and research. We recorded the calling activity of frogs breeding at 93 ponds through coastal northern New South Wales and used linear mixed effects models to compare the number of calling males with temperature, humidity and cumulative rainfall at 24 hours and 72 hours prior to calling surveys. We obtained sufficient data to analyze the relationships for nine species, obtaining a positive response to 72-hour rainfall in eight of the nine species. Twenty-four hour rainfall provided a positive response for six species and a negative response for two species. Similarly, temperature and humidity provided positive responses for three and five species and negative effects for three and three species respectively. Calling of all species was related to multiple micrometeorological factors and these varied between species.
Publication Details
Lemckert, F., Penman, T. & Mahony, M. J. (2013). Relationship of calling intensity to micrometeorology in pond breeding frogs from central eastern New South Wales. Proceedings of the International Academy of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, 3 (2), 170-180.