|
Importance
Monitoring amphibian populations was among the 10 highest priority Vital Signs for the Great Lakes Network because of their:
- Sensitivity – Amphibians generally are sensitive to changes in the environment, including temperature, precipitation, humidity, hydrology, land cover, nutrients, toxics, and exotic species;
- Role as integrators – During different life stages, amphibians live in both terrestrial and aquatic habitats;
- Ease of study – Various amphibian life stages are typically accessible for study;
- Conservation concern – Rapid and ubiquitous declines in amphibians worldwide make them one of the Earth’s most imperiled taxa.
- Regional relevance – Other federal and state agencies in the Great Lakes region currently monitor amphibian populations. Our combined efforts provide a broad context for evaluating data we collect in the Great Lakes Network parks.
|
