Using soil temperature, soil moisture, precipitation and date to predict red-backed salamander vertical movement from refugia to the surface

Danielle D Bear

Red-backed salamanders are a lungless terrestrial species that rely on abiotic factors to complete needed biological processes such as cutaneous respiration. In order to remain in optimal conditions, these salamanders exert some control over their environmental conditions through vertical movement from the surface to refugia below. Changes in these factors could alter their movement timing. We seek to find relationships between these factors in order to discover which conditions motivate their movement to the surface.

Major: 
Wildlife and Fisheries Science
Exhibition Category: 
Health and Life Sciences
Exhibition Format: 
Poster Presentation
Campus: 
University Park
Faculty Sponsor: 
Dr. David Miller
Poster Number: 
465