Javier Rodriguez-Robles
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520238183
- eISBN:
- 9780520930001
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520238183.001.0001
- Subject:
- History, History of Science, Technology, and Medicine
The Museum of Vertebrate Zoology (MVZ), located on the campus of the University of California, Berkeley, is a leading center of herpetological research in the United States. This book offers a brief ...
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The Museum of Vertebrate Zoology (MVZ), located on the campus of the University of California, Berkeley, is a leading center of herpetological research in the United States. This book offers a brief account of the principal figures associated with the collection and of the most important events in the history of herpetology in the MVZ during its first 93 years, and lists all type specimens of recent amphibians and nonavian reptiles in the collection. Although the MVZ has existed since 1908, until 1945 there was no formal curator for the collection of amphibians and nonavian reptiles. Since that time Robert C. Stebbins, David B. Wake, Harry W. Greene, Javier A. Rodrìguez-Robles (in an interim capacity), and Craig Moritz have served in that position. The herpetological collection of the MVZ was begun on March 13, 1909, with a collection of approximately 430 specimens from southern California and, as of December 31, 2001, contained 232,254 specimens. Taxonomically, the collection is strongest in salamanders, accounting for 99,176 specimens, followed by “lizards” (squamate reptiles other than snakes and amphisbaenians, 63,439), frogs (40,563), snakes (24,937), turtles (2,643), caecilians (979), amphisbaenians (451), crocodilians (63), and tuataras (3). Whereas the collection's emphasis historically has been on the western United States, and on California in particular, representatives of taxa from many other parts of the world are present. The 1,765 type specimens in the MVZ comprise 120 holotypes, three neotypes, three syntypes, and 1,639 paratopotypes and paratypes; 83 of the holotypes were originally described as full species. Of the 196 amphibian and nonavian reptilian taxa represented by type material, most were collected in México (63) and California, USA (54).Less
The Museum of Vertebrate Zoology (MVZ), located on the campus of the University of California, Berkeley, is a leading center of herpetological research in the United States. This book offers a brief account of the principal figures associated with the collection and of the most important events in the history of herpetology in the MVZ during its first 93 years, and lists all type specimens of recent amphibians and nonavian reptiles in the collection. Although the MVZ has existed since 1908, until 1945 there was no formal curator for the collection of amphibians and nonavian reptiles. Since that time Robert C. Stebbins, David B. Wake, Harry W. Greene, Javier A. Rodrìguez-Robles (in an interim capacity), and Craig Moritz have served in that position. The herpetological collection of the MVZ was begun on March 13, 1909, with a collection of approximately 430 specimens from southern California and, as of December 31, 2001, contained 232,254 specimens. Taxonomically, the collection is strongest in salamanders, accounting for 99,176 specimens, followed by “lizards” (squamate reptiles other than snakes and amphisbaenians, 63,439), frogs (40,563), snakes (24,937), turtles (2,643), caecilians (979), amphisbaenians (451), crocodilians (63), and tuataras (3). Whereas the collection's emphasis historically has been on the western United States, and on California in particular, representatives of taxa from many other parts of the world are present. The 1,765 type specimens in the MVZ comprise 120 holotypes, three neotypes, three syntypes, and 1,639 paratopotypes and paratypes; 83 of the holotypes were originally described as full species. Of the 196 amphibian and nonavian reptilian taxa represented by type material, most were collected in México (63) and California, USA (54).
Ian P. Howard and Brian J. Rogers
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195367607
- eISBN:
- 9780199867264
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195367607.003.0014
- Subject:
- Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience, Cognitive Psychology
This chapter discusses depth vision in animals other than cats and primates. These include invertebrates, fish, amphibian, reptiles, birds, and mammals.
This chapter discusses depth vision in animals other than cats and primates. These include invertebrates, fish, amphibian, reptiles, birds, and mammals.
Eric Post
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691148472
- eISBN:
- 9781400846139
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691148472.003.0003
- Subject:
- Biology, Ecology
This chapter looks at examples illustrating patterns in phenological responses to observed and experimental climate change. The most commonly observed phenological response to recent climate change ...
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This chapter looks at examples illustrating patterns in phenological responses to observed and experimental climate change. The most commonly observed phenological response to recent climate change is an advance in the timing of early life history events such as migration, plant emergence or flowering, amphibian breeding, or egg-laying dates in birds. Patterns in satellite-derived images of primary productivity suggest a lengthening of the plant-growing season in recent decades, whereas data on plant phenological dynamics from studies conducted at plot and sublandscape scales indicate shortened phenophases, or phenological events, in response to warming. This contrast may be resolved by recognizing the difference between phenology in the context of individual life history strategies of disparate species and landscape-scale patterns of phenology, and by recognizing the difference between local, species-specific phenological dynamics and those occurring at the landscape scale.Less
This chapter looks at examples illustrating patterns in phenological responses to observed and experimental climate change. The most commonly observed phenological response to recent climate change is an advance in the timing of early life history events such as migration, plant emergence or flowering, amphibian breeding, or egg-laying dates in birds. Patterns in satellite-derived images of primary productivity suggest a lengthening of the plant-growing season in recent decades, whereas data on plant phenological dynamics from studies conducted at plot and sublandscape scales indicate shortened phenophases, or phenological events, in response to warming. This contrast may be resolved by recognizing the difference between phenology in the context of individual life history strategies of disparate species and landscape-scale patterns of phenology, and by recognizing the difference between local, species-specific phenological dynamics and those occurring at the landscape scale.
Pat Willmer
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691128610
- eISBN:
- 9781400838943
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691128610.003.0017
- Subject:
- Biology, Ecology
This chapter considers pollination by nonflying vertebrates and other oddities. It begins with a discussion of ectotherm vertebrates visiting flowers; these include fish, amphibians, and reptiles. ...
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This chapter considers pollination by nonflying vertebrates and other oddities. It begins with a discussion of ectotherm vertebrates visiting flowers; these include fish, amphibians, and reptiles. Fish are not recorded as flower visitors, but they are at least occasionally facilitators of the pollination process for shoreline pond plants, where they prey on animals that compete with or reduce pollinator populations. The chapter proceeds with an analysis of pollination by nonflying mammals such as marsupials, rodents, monkeys, and lemurs as well as flowers that they regularly visit, including ground-level (geoflorous) flowers and arboreal flowers. Finally, it examines pollination by unusual invertebrates ranging from snails and woodlice to land crabs and millipedes.Less
This chapter considers pollination by nonflying vertebrates and other oddities. It begins with a discussion of ectotherm vertebrates visiting flowers; these include fish, amphibians, and reptiles. Fish are not recorded as flower visitors, but they are at least occasionally facilitators of the pollination process for shoreline pond plants, where they prey on animals that compete with or reduce pollinator populations. The chapter proceeds with an analysis of pollination by nonflying mammals such as marsupials, rodents, monkeys, and lemurs as well as flowers that they regularly visit, including ground-level (geoflorous) flowers and arboreal flowers. Finally, it examines pollination by unusual invertebrates ranging from snails and woodlice to land crabs and millipedes.
Mauricio Lima and Fabian M. Jaksic
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780198507499
- eISBN:
- 9780191709845
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198507499.003.0016
- Subject:
- Biology, Aquatic Biology
This chapter aims to cast new light upon the preceding chapters, drawing upon the authors' experience along the western fringe of South America, especially on data gained from Chilean ecosystems. The ...
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This chapter aims to cast new light upon the preceding chapters, drawing upon the authors' experience along the western fringe of South America, especially on data gained from Chilean ecosystems. The eastern side of the tropical Pacific — where El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) plays a highly significant role — is linked closely to the NAO impacts in the North Atlantic sector. Specifically, the impacts on plants, invertebrates, amphibians, birds, and mammals are considered.Less
This chapter aims to cast new light upon the preceding chapters, drawing upon the authors' experience along the western fringe of South America, especially on data gained from Chilean ecosystems. The eastern side of the tropical Pacific — where El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) plays a highly significant role — is linked closely to the NAO impacts in the North Atlantic sector. Specifically, the impacts on plants, invertebrates, amphibians, birds, and mammals are considered.
D. Dudley Williams
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780198528128
- eISBN:
- 9780191713538
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198528128.003.0004
- Subject:
- Biology, Aquatic Biology
This chapter presents summaries of each taxonomic group inhabiting temporary waters, providing examples of habitat-specific requirements and adaptations throughout. Insects and crustaceans are the ...
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This chapter presents summaries of each taxonomic group inhabiting temporary waters, providing examples of habitat-specific requirements and adaptations throughout. Insects and crustaceans are the dominant community members and, consequently, the best studied groups. However, information is also provided on lesser known groups, such as the prokaryotes, fungi, nematodes, tardigrades, and rotifers. Higher plants, fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals are discussed. Detailed case histories are given of the biotas from common habitat types. Global and regional comparisons of temporary water communities are made and commonality is demonstrated.Less
This chapter presents summaries of each taxonomic group inhabiting temporary waters, providing examples of habitat-specific requirements and adaptations throughout. Insects and crustaceans are the dominant community members and, consequently, the best studied groups. However, information is also provided on lesser known groups, such as the prokaryotes, fungi, nematodes, tardigrades, and rotifers. Higher plants, fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals are discussed. Detailed case histories are given of the biotas from common habitat types. Global and regional comparisons of temporary water communities are made and commonality is demonstrated.
Zachary M. Weil and David Crews
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195335903
- eISBN:
- 9780199775446
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195335903.003.0016
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Biology
This chapter provides a broad overview of photoperiodic regulation of reproductive and nonreproductive responses in amphibians and reptiles. It focuses mostly on laboratory investigations of ...
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This chapter provides a broad overview of photoperiodic regulation of reproductive and nonreproductive responses in amphibians and reptiles. It focuses mostly on laboratory investigations of photoperiodic and seasonal phenomena where environmental factors can be precisely controlled, and the respective contributions of day length and environmental temperature elucidated.Less
This chapter provides a broad overview of photoperiodic regulation of reproductive and nonreproductive responses in amphibians and reptiles. It focuses mostly on laboratory investigations of photoperiodic and seasonal phenomena where environmental factors can be precisely controlled, and the respective contributions of day length and environmental temperature elucidated.
Ian P. Howard and Brian J. Rogers
- Published in print:
- 1996
- Published Online:
- January 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195084764
- eISBN:
- 9780199871049
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195084764.003.0016
- Subject:
- Psychology, Cognitive Psychology
Stereoscopic vision is particularly well developed in mammals with foveas, frontal vision, hemidecussatting visual pathways, and vergence eye movements, such as felines and primates. This chapter ...
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Stereoscopic vision is particularly well developed in mammals with foveas, frontal vision, hemidecussatting visual pathways, and vergence eye movements, such as felines and primates. This chapter discusses stereoscopic vision in other animals. These include insects and spiders, crustacea, fish, amphibia, reptiles, and birds.Less
Stereoscopic vision is particularly well developed in mammals with foveas, frontal vision, hemidecussatting visual pathways, and vergence eye movements, such as felines and primates. This chapter discusses stereoscopic vision in other animals. These include insects and spiders, crustacea, fish, amphibia, reptiles, and birds.
Andrew T. Snider and Elizabeth Arbaugh
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520235922
- eISBN:
- 9780520929432
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520235922.003.0050
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Biology
The history of amphibians at the Detroit Zoo dates back to 1960, when The Holden Museum of Living Reptiles opened to the public. Amphibian breeding efforts first occurred in 1970, when production and ...
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The history of amphibians at the Detroit Zoo dates back to 1960, when The Holden Museum of Living Reptiles opened to the public. Amphibian breeding efforts first occurred in 1970, when production and rearing of clutches of axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum) commenced. In 1990, to acknowledge that amphibians were also included in the building, the facility's name was officially changed to The Holden Museum of Living Reptiles and Amphibians. Since 1994, the Detroit Zoological Institute has intensified its commitment to amphibian husbandry and conservation. In light of the global decline in amphibian populations, the need for a national conservation center for amphibians became more urgent and an idea was born: The National Amphibian Conservation Center (NACC). The NACC is the first major conservation facility dedicated entirely to conserving and exhibiting amphibians. It holds exhibits that define and describe amphibians, metamorphosis, amphibian evolution and diversity, aspects of amphibian ecology, and conservation biology. The Orientation Theater, a circular room with multimedia capabilities, is open to the public, school groups, and other organizations.Less
The history of amphibians at the Detroit Zoo dates back to 1960, when The Holden Museum of Living Reptiles opened to the public. Amphibian breeding efforts first occurred in 1970, when production and rearing of clutches of axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum) commenced. In 1990, to acknowledge that amphibians were also included in the building, the facility's name was officially changed to The Holden Museum of Living Reptiles and Amphibians. Since 1994, the Detroit Zoological Institute has intensified its commitment to amphibian husbandry and conservation. In light of the global decline in amphibian populations, the need for a national conservation center for amphibians became more urgent and an idea was born: The National Amphibian Conservation Center (NACC). The NACC is the first major conservation facility dedicated entirely to conserving and exhibiting amphibians. It holds exhibits that define and describe amphibians, metamorphosis, amphibian evolution and diversity, aspects of amphibian ecology, and conservation biology. The Orientation Theater, a circular room with multimedia capabilities, is open to the public, school groups, and other organizations.
WERNER VOGEL and JÜRGEN R. SCHWARZ
- Published in print:
- 1995
- Published Online:
- May 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195082937
- eISBN:
- 9780199865802
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195082937.003.0013
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Disorders of the Nervous System
This chapter describes macroscopic membrane currents measured in amphibian and mammalian nodes of Ranvier with the voltage-clamp method. These results are compared with those of single-channel ...
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This chapter describes macroscopic membrane currents measured in amphibian and mammalian nodes of Ranvier with the voltage-clamp method. These results are compared with those of single-channel recordings, which provide important data on channel characteristics in myelinated axons. The results obtained from the calculation of the action potentials with voltage-clamp data obtained from frog, rat, and human nerve fibers are also reviewed. It is shown that the properties of the various new ionic channel types detected with the patch-clamp technique help explain previously unsolved problems concerning the ionic basis of accommodation, resting potential, and various pathophysiological phenomena.Less
This chapter describes macroscopic membrane currents measured in amphibian and mammalian nodes of Ranvier with the voltage-clamp method. These results are compared with those of single-channel recordings, which provide important data on channel characteristics in myelinated axons. The results obtained from the calculation of the action potentials with voltage-clamp data obtained from frog, rat, and human nerve fibers are also reviewed. It is shown that the properties of the various new ionic channel types detected with the patch-clamp technique help explain previously unsolved problems concerning the ionic basis of accommodation, resting potential, and various pathophysiological phenomena.
Andrew R. Blaustein and Lisa K. Belden
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520235922
- eISBN:
- 9780520929432
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520235922.003.0014
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Biology
Global climate changes, including changes in atmospheric conditions, may be contributing to amphibian population declines. Studies of amphibians and ultraviolet radiation have concentrated on ...
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Global climate changes, including changes in atmospheric conditions, may be contributing to amphibian population declines. Studies of amphibians and ultraviolet radiation have concentrated on ultraviolet B (UV-B), the portion of the spectrum of most biological concern at the earth's surface. Higher wavelengths are less efficiently absorbed by critical biomolecules; lower wavelengths are absorbed by stratospheric ozone. UV-B radiation is known to induce the formation of photoproducts that can cause cell death or genetic mutations. Seasonal increases in UV-B irradiance linked to stratospheric ozone depletion are well documented at the poles, and there is evidence that UV-B radiation has increased in temperate latitudes. Laboratory studies show detrimental effects of UV-B radiation on amphibian growth, development, and behavior. Field studies demonstrate that ambient UV-B radiation adversely affects the developing embryos of some, but not all, species. Moreover, some recent studies have shown that ambient UV-B radiation may cause malformities. This chapter summarizes the methods, evidence, and implications of the effects of UV-B radiation on amphibians based on the results of field experiments.Less
Global climate changes, including changes in atmospheric conditions, may be contributing to amphibian population declines. Studies of amphibians and ultraviolet radiation have concentrated on ultraviolet B (UV-B), the portion of the spectrum of most biological concern at the earth's surface. Higher wavelengths are less efficiently absorbed by critical biomolecules; lower wavelengths are absorbed by stratospheric ozone. UV-B radiation is known to induce the formation of photoproducts that can cause cell death or genetic mutations. Seasonal increases in UV-B irradiance linked to stratospheric ozone depletion are well documented at the poles, and there is evidence that UV-B radiation has increased in temperate latitudes. Laboratory studies show detrimental effects of UV-B radiation on amphibian growth, development, and behavior. Field studies demonstrate that ambient UV-B radiation adversely affects the developing embryos of some, but not all, species. Moreover, some recent studies have shown that ambient UV-B radiation may cause malformities. This chapter summarizes the methods, evidence, and implications of the effects of UV-B radiation on amphibians based on the results of field experiments.
Debra Patla
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520235922
- eISBN:
- 9780520929432
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520235922.003.0039
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Biology
Park and wildlife managers are facing an ironic dilemma as they work to restore and protect aquatic ecosystems — must amphibians be sacrificed if native fish are to return? Over the past century ...
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Park and wildlife managers are facing an ironic dilemma as they work to restore and protect aquatic ecosystems — must amphibians be sacrificed if native fish are to return? Over the past century throughout the United States, resource managers sought to enhance the recreational value of lakes and streams by stocking non-native (exotic) game fish. The “success” of this effort is now recognized as a serious impediment to conserving natural aquatic biodiversity. Introduced fish endanger and replace native fish species through predation, competition, hybridization, and disease transmission. In many cases, bringing back the natives is doomed unless the introduced fish are eradicated. In Yellowstone National Park, four species of non-native trout were introduced, have become established, and threaten the survival of indigenous fish. A program to remove non-native trout has begun, but techniques used to remove these fish also threaten amphibians. Recommendations are made to eliminate or reduce the threat to amphibians, including making managers aware of the presence of amphibians, and offering strategies for reducing amphibian vulnerability to fish removal techniques.Less
Park and wildlife managers are facing an ironic dilemma as they work to restore and protect aquatic ecosystems — must amphibians be sacrificed if native fish are to return? Over the past century throughout the United States, resource managers sought to enhance the recreational value of lakes and streams by stocking non-native (exotic) game fish. The “success” of this effort is now recognized as a serious impediment to conserving natural aquatic biodiversity. Introduced fish endanger and replace native fish species through predation, competition, hybridization, and disease transmission. In many cases, bringing back the natives is doomed unless the introduced fish are eradicated. In Yellowstone National Park, four species of non-native trout were introduced, have become established, and threaten the survival of indigenous fish. A program to remove non-native trout has begun, but techniques used to remove these fish also threaten amphibians. Recommendations are made to eliminate or reduce the threat to amphibians, including making managers aware of the presence of amphibians, and offering strategies for reducing amphibian vulnerability to fish removal techniques.
Rochelle B. Renken
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520235922
- eISBN:
- 9780520929432
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520235922.003.0048
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Biology
Researchers with the Missouri Department of Conservation, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the U.S. Forest Service, and cooperating universities (University of Missouri-Columbia, ...
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Researchers with the Missouri Department of Conservation, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the U.S. Forest Service, and cooperating universities (University of Missouri-Columbia, University of Missouri-St. Louis, Michigan Technological University, and University of Tennessee-Chattanooga) are conducting a bold experiment to examine the long-term, large-scale impacts of forest management practices on the biotic and abiotic components of the oak-hickory forests of southern Missouri. The Missouri Ozark Forest Ecosystem Project (MOFEP) aims to conduct a controlled experiment to document the effects of typical forest management practices on the numbers and types of forest plants and animals, including amphibians. Drift fence arrays are chosen as the MOFEP technique for trapping amphibians. In this experiment, the impact of the forest management practices of clearcutting (technically called even-aged management) and select tree cutting (called uneven-aged management) is examined. MOFEP is unique both in its duration and its scale — data will be collected for the next 100+ years and on the landscape scale of 1,000-acre forests.Less
Researchers with the Missouri Department of Conservation, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the U.S. Forest Service, and cooperating universities (University of Missouri-Columbia, University of Missouri-St. Louis, Michigan Technological University, and University of Tennessee-Chattanooga) are conducting a bold experiment to examine the long-term, large-scale impacts of forest management practices on the biotic and abiotic components of the oak-hickory forests of southern Missouri. The Missouri Ozark Forest Ecosystem Project (MOFEP) aims to conduct a controlled experiment to document the effects of typical forest management practices on the numbers and types of forest plants and animals, including amphibians. Drift fence arrays are chosen as the MOFEP technique for trapping amphibians. In this experiment, the impact of the forest management practices of clearcutting (technically called even-aged management) and select tree cutting (called uneven-aged management) is examined. MOFEP is unique both in its duration and its scale — data will be collected for the next 100+ years and on the landscape scale of 1,000-acre forests.
Tony P. Murphy
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520235922
- eISBN:
- 9780520929432
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520235922.003.0051
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Biology
In 1995, large numbers of malformed frogs were discovered in Minnesota. Images of frogs with gross abnormalities were broadcast on national news programs and printed in newspapers across the country. ...
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In 1995, large numbers of malformed frogs were discovered in Minnesota. Images of frogs with gross abnormalities were broadcast on national news programs and printed in newspapers across the country. In the wake of this discovery, A Thousand Friends of Frogs was born. In 1995, the Minnesota State Legislature provided funding to begin the initiative. A monitoring program known as Minnesota Frog Watch was established to coordinate with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). The staff has trained more than 100 volunteers for a statewide anuran call survey that will eventually become a part of the wildlife monitoring programs administered by the MDNR. The mission of A Thousand Friends of Frogs is twofold: to educate citizens about the environment through the issues facing amphibians, and in particular frogs; and to involve the public in local environment issues, including ones that affect amphibians. It seeks to create, disseminate, and then encourage teachers to use an education program that is based on amphibian conservation but also teaches about broader environmental issues.Less
In 1995, large numbers of malformed frogs were discovered in Minnesota. Images of frogs with gross abnormalities were broadcast on national news programs and printed in newspapers across the country. In the wake of this discovery, A Thousand Friends of Frogs was born. In 1995, the Minnesota State Legislature provided funding to begin the initiative. A monitoring program known as Minnesota Frog Watch was established to coordinate with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). The staff has trained more than 100 volunteers for a statewide anuran call survey that will eventually become a part of the wildlife monitoring programs administered by the MDNR. The mission of A Thousand Friends of Frogs is twofold: to educate citizens about the environment through the issues facing amphibians, and in particular frogs; and to involve the public in local environment issues, including ones that affect amphibians. It seeks to create, disseminate, and then encourage teachers to use an education program that is based on amphibian conservation but also teaches about broader environmental issues.
Michael Lannoo, Alisa L. Gallant, Priya Nanjappa, Laura Blackburn, and Russell Hendricks
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520235922
- eISBN:
- 9780520929432
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520235922.003.0057
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Biology
This book has presented what is known about the extent and causes of amphibian population declines in the United States and what can be done about them. It has also examined life history and natural ...
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This book has presented what is known about the extent and causes of amphibian population declines in the United States and what can be done about them. It has also examined life history and natural history features needed to manage for amphibians, with a current assessment of their distribution. In assembling the literature for this project, and with a quick look at the species accounts, what is immediately noticeable is that a few species are well known and have a large literature, some species are better known and have a modest literature, and many species are almost unknown. An existing scientific literature creates a future scientific literature and results in a species bias. Workers are strongly encouraged to explore species that are not well known and to seek questions from field observations. Scientists must also explore creative new techniques for observing and monitoring inconvenient animals.Less
This book has presented what is known about the extent and causes of amphibian population declines in the United States and what can be done about them. It has also examined life history and natural history features needed to manage for amphibians, with a current assessment of their distribution. In assembling the literature for this project, and with a quick look at the species accounts, what is immediately noticeable is that a few species are well known and have a large literature, some species are better known and have a modest literature, and many species are almost unknown. An existing scientific literature creates a future scientific literature and results in a species bias. Workers are strongly encouraged to explore species that are not well known and to seek questions from field observations. Scientists must also explore creative new techniques for observing and monitoring inconvenient animals.
Whit Gibbons
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520235922
- eISBN:
- 9780520929432
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520235922.003.0004
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Biology
Disease, pollution, invasive species, overcollecting, global changes, and other causes have been documented or proposed to be responsible for particular or widespread amphibian population declines. ...
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Disease, pollution, invasive species, overcollecting, global changes, and other causes have been documented or proposed to be responsible for particular or widespread amphibian population declines. Yet, finding solutions for any of these causes will not matter for most species in the long term if the basic components of their natural habitats are degraded or eliminated by human use of natural resources. Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (PARC) is an initiative designed to find solutions to the loss of habitat and other problems faced by herpetofauna. Groups or individuals with an agenda involving beleaguered amphibians (frogs, salamanders, and caecilians) are encouraged to become involved with PARC. PARC differs from many other conservation groups. PARC recognizes that reptiles are more globally threatened than are amphibians, and, hence, these two major classes of vertebrates are coupled in conservation efforts. PARC has been organized to involve not only the person or group with a concern for amphibians and their habitats, but also any person or group whose actions and attitudes are perceived by some as detrimental to the well-being of amphibians.Less
Disease, pollution, invasive species, overcollecting, global changes, and other causes have been documented or proposed to be responsible for particular or widespread amphibian population declines. Yet, finding solutions for any of these causes will not matter for most species in the long term if the basic components of their natural habitats are degraded or eliminated by human use of natural resources. Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (PARC) is an initiative designed to find solutions to the loss of habitat and other problems faced by herpetofauna. Groups or individuals with an agenda involving beleaguered amphibians (frogs, salamanders, and caecilians) are encouraged to become involved with PARC. PARC differs from many other conservation groups. PARC recognizes that reptiles are more globally threatened than are amphibians, and, hence, these two major classes of vertebrates are coupled in conservation efforts. PARC has been organized to involve not only the person or group with a concern for amphibians and their habitats, but also any person or group whose actions and attitudes are perceived by some as detrimental to the well-being of amphibians.
Terry Pinkard
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- May 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780199860791
- eISBN:
- 9780199932986
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199860791.003.0008
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Moral Philosophy, General
Philosophy shows both how we are committed to certain things, such as modern rights and morality, and how these bring certain tensions with them. The only reconciliation philosophy offers is a ...
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Philosophy shows both how we are committed to certain things, such as modern rights and morality, and how these bring certain tensions with them. The only reconciliation philosophy offers is a reconciliation to the necessity of these commitments and their tensions, not a reconciliation of the tensions themselves. It is also hopeless to think that any state can overcome any of these tensions. The modern agent must therefore become an “amphibian” who lives within all those tensions. To be a successful amphibian also means to exercise something like Aristotle's conceptions of the virtues. Wholeness can be partially achieved in art and religion, and philosophy can achieve a theoretical but not practical wholeness. Hegel is thus not a philosopher of totality, and his dialectical approach is, in an important sense, open‐ended.Less
Philosophy shows both how we are committed to certain things, such as modern rights and morality, and how these bring certain tensions with them. The only reconciliation philosophy offers is a reconciliation to the necessity of these commitments and their tensions, not a reconciliation of the tensions themselves. It is also hopeless to think that any state can overcome any of these tensions. The modern agent must therefore become an “amphibian” who lives within all those tensions. To be a successful amphibian also means to exercise something like Aristotle's conceptions of the virtues. Wholeness can be partially achieved in art and religion, and philosophy can achieve a theoretical but not practical wholeness. Hegel is thus not a philosopher of totality, and his dialectical approach is, in an important sense, open‐ended.
Stanley S. Hillman, Philip C. Withers, Robert C. Drewes, and Stanley D. Hillyard
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780198570325
- eISBN:
- 9780191728259
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198570325.001.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Biology, Aquatic Biology
Amphibians are the descendants of the first vertebrate class to successfully colonize terrestrial environments. They rely on water more than any other terrestrial group and occupy a unique position ...
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Amphibians are the descendants of the first vertebrate class to successfully colonize terrestrial environments. They rely on water more than any other terrestrial group and occupy a unique position between fishes and reptiles. This book provides a synthesis of current research on the ecological and environmental physiology of amphibians, with a particular emphasis on metabolic and water balance strategies associated with the range of habitats, aquatic to terrestrial, that are occupied by extant amphibian species. The topics include the suite of morphological, physiological, and behavioral adaptations associated with specific habitats, and the use of systematics in elucidating patterns of evolutionary change. The book includes over one thousand references on basic physiological principles, ecology, phylogeny, and development.Less
Amphibians are the descendants of the first vertebrate class to successfully colonize terrestrial environments. They rely on water more than any other terrestrial group and occupy a unique position between fishes and reptiles. This book provides a synthesis of current research on the ecological and environmental physiology of amphibians, with a particular emphasis on metabolic and water balance strategies associated with the range of habitats, aquatic to terrestrial, that are occupied by extant amphibian species. The topics include the suite of morphological, physiological, and behavioral adaptations associated with specific habitats, and the use of systematics in elucidating patterns of evolutionary change. The book includes over one thousand references on basic physiological principles, ecology, phylogeny, and development.
J. Alan Holman
- Published in print:
- 1998
- Published Online:
- November 2020
- ISBN:
- 9780195112320
- eISBN:
- 9780197561096
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/oso/9780195112320.003.0010
- Subject:
- Earth Sciences and Geography, Palaeontology: Earth Sciences
In Chapter 5 we have seen that Pleistocene herpetofaunas are often used to suggest paleoenvironmental conditions. The present chapter discusses the ...
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In Chapter 5 we have seen that Pleistocene herpetofaunas are often used to suggest paleoenvironmental conditions. The present chapter discusses the validity of this use. With the exception of behavioral responses (and a few quasi-physiological adaptations in reptiles), herpetological species are poorly adapted to resist temperature changes. Or, to put it another way, amphibians and reptiles lack the complex internal physiological mechanisms that interact to regulate temperature in endotherms. This has led to the assumption by many that herpetological species, because of their supposed greater sensitivity to temperature changes, arc much better indicators of local thermal conditions than are birds and mammals. Moreover, most Quaternary amphibians and reptiles represent extant species whose ecological tolerances and habitat preferences are well known, whereas many Pleistocene endotherms, especially large mammals, are extinct species whose ecological traits and specific habitat requirements are not totally understood. This suggests that Pleistocene herpetofaunas should give more refined information about specific habitats than endothermic faunas. Also, it can be argued that most amphibian and reptile species are more spatially confined than endothermic ones (especially birds and large mammals) and that Pleistocene herpetological species indicate paleoenvironmental conditions of more restricted areas. Bailón and Rage (1992) address this subject in the light of their European experience: "They (amphibians and reptiles] arc unable to compensate for large climatic variations as endotherms (birds and mammals) can; therefore each amphibian and reptile species can live only in a definite climate." (p. 95). Moreover,… Amphibians and reptiles present another advantage: whereas endotherm vertebrates are represented in Quaternary fossiliferous localities by a not negligible percentage of extinct species, practically all fossil amphibians and reptiles of that age belong to extant species. If a species is extinct its ecological requirements cannot be known with certainty and arc open to speculation whereas living species present in fossiliferous assemblages afford accurate information, (p. 95)… They also state that the size of reptile home ranges is small, and that as these species are not the preferred prey of predaccous birds, they are probably not an admixture of species that live in a wide area around the locality. Let us examine these assumptions.
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In Chapter 5 we have seen that Pleistocene herpetofaunas are often used to suggest paleoenvironmental conditions. The present chapter discusses the validity of this use. With the exception of behavioral responses (and a few quasi-physiological adaptations in reptiles), herpetological species are poorly adapted to resist temperature changes. Or, to put it another way, amphibians and reptiles lack the complex internal physiological mechanisms that interact to regulate temperature in endotherms. This has led to the assumption by many that herpetological species, because of their supposed greater sensitivity to temperature changes, arc much better indicators of local thermal conditions than are birds and mammals. Moreover, most Quaternary amphibians and reptiles represent extant species whose ecological tolerances and habitat preferences are well known, whereas many Pleistocene endotherms, especially large mammals, are extinct species whose ecological traits and specific habitat requirements are not totally understood. This suggests that Pleistocene herpetofaunas should give more refined information about specific habitats than endothermic faunas. Also, it can be argued that most amphibian and reptile species are more spatially confined than endothermic ones (especially birds and large mammals) and that Pleistocene herpetological species indicate paleoenvironmental conditions of more restricted areas. Bailón and Rage (1992) address this subject in the light of their European experience: "They (amphibians and reptiles] arc unable to compensate for large climatic variations as endotherms (birds and mammals) can; therefore each amphibian and reptile species can live only in a definite climate." (p. 95). Moreover,… Amphibians and reptiles present another advantage: whereas endotherm vertebrates are represented in Quaternary fossiliferous localities by a not negligible percentage of extinct species, practically all fossil amphibians and reptiles of that age belong to extant species. If a species is extinct its ecological requirements cannot be known with certainty and arc open to speculation whereas living species present in fossiliferous assemblages afford accurate information, (p. 95)… They also state that the size of reptile home ranges is small, and that as these species are not the preferred prey of predaccous birds, they are probably not an admixture of species that live in a wide area around the locality. Let us examine these assumptions.
J. Alan Holman
- Published in print:
- 1998
- Published Online:
- November 2020
- ISBN:
- 9780195112320
- eISBN:
- 9780197561096
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/oso/9780195112320.003.0012
- Subject:
- Earth Sciences and Geography, Palaeontology: Earth Sciences
As we have seen in Chapter 4, many invalid European Pleistocene amphibian and reptile species were named on the basis of insufficient and inadequately ...
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As we have seen in Chapter 4, many invalid European Pleistocene amphibian and reptile species were named on the basis of insufficient and inadequately described fossils (e.g., Estes, 1981, 1983; Rage, 1984c; Sanchiz, in press). Some of these forms have been synonymized with modern species, but others are in taxonomic limbo because of the international rules of zoological nomenclature. We now turn to a consideration of the few European Pleistocene fossil herpetological species that have been recognized as valid in recent years. These taxa fit into three catagories: (1) an extinct Pliocene anuran taxon that extended into the Pleistocene, (2) large Lacerta species that lived on oceanic islands, and (3) Pleistocene species that are probably morphological variants of living forms. All of the following taxa are addressed in Chapter 4. No extinct species of Pleistocene salamanders are currently recognized in Britain or Europe. The genus * Pliobatrachus from the Pliocene of eastern Europe extended into the Lower Pleistocene of Poland and the Middle Pleistocene of Germany in the form of * Pliobatrachus cf. Pliobatrachus langhae. The *Palaeobatrachidae, the only family in the history of the Anura that became totally extinct (Roček, 1995), represents the only extinct herpetological family known in the Pleistocene of Britain and Europe, and *Pliobalrachus represents the only extinct herpetologcal genus known in the Pleistocene of the region. Rocck (1995) suggested that the *Palaeobatrachidae did not survive the Pleistocene cooling because of their prevailingly aquatic mode of life, unlike, for instance, the Ranidac and Bufonidae that were able to withdraw from iceobliterated areas and return when climatic conditions improved. *Lacerta goliath is a Pleistocene or Holocene species that is known only from two localities in the Canary islands (see Chapters 4 and 5). It is twice the size of Lacerta lepida, the largest modern European Lacerta. *Lacerta maxima is another very large Pleistocene or Holocene Lacerta that is endemic to the Canary Islands. This species is known from a single fossil locality (see Chapters 4 and 5) and is differentiated from * Lacerta goliath on the basis of several trenchant osteological characters.
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As we have seen in Chapter 4, many invalid European Pleistocene amphibian and reptile species were named on the basis of insufficient and inadequately described fossils (e.g., Estes, 1981, 1983; Rage, 1984c; Sanchiz, in press). Some of these forms have been synonymized with modern species, but others are in taxonomic limbo because of the international rules of zoological nomenclature. We now turn to a consideration of the few European Pleistocene fossil herpetological species that have been recognized as valid in recent years. These taxa fit into three catagories: (1) an extinct Pliocene anuran taxon that extended into the Pleistocene, (2) large Lacerta species that lived on oceanic islands, and (3) Pleistocene species that are probably morphological variants of living forms. All of the following taxa are addressed in Chapter 4. No extinct species of Pleistocene salamanders are currently recognized in Britain or Europe. The genus * Pliobatrachus from the Pliocene of eastern Europe extended into the Lower Pleistocene of Poland and the Middle Pleistocene of Germany in the form of * Pliobatrachus cf. Pliobatrachus langhae. The *Palaeobatrachidae, the only family in the history of the Anura that became totally extinct (Roček, 1995), represents the only extinct herpetological family known in the Pleistocene of Britain and Europe, and *Pliobalrachus represents the only extinct herpetologcal genus known in the Pleistocene of the region. Rocck (1995) suggested that the *Palaeobatrachidae did not survive the Pleistocene cooling because of their prevailingly aquatic mode of life, unlike, for instance, the Ranidac and Bufonidae that were able to withdraw from iceobliterated areas and return when climatic conditions improved. *Lacerta goliath is a Pleistocene or Holocene species that is known only from two localities in the Canary islands (see Chapters 4 and 5). It is twice the size of Lacerta lepida, the largest modern European Lacerta. *Lacerta maxima is another very large Pleistocene or Holocene Lacerta that is endemic to the Canary Islands. This species is known from a single fossil locality (see Chapters 4 and 5) and is differentiated from * Lacerta goliath on the basis of several trenchant osteological characters.