Patterns of leaf-litter amphibian diversity in a silvicultural landscape of southeastern Brazil

Abstract

Amphibians are susceptible to environmental changes due to a combination of morphological, physiological and behavioral characteristics adapted to specific environmental conditions. Few studies focus on the patterns of amphibian diversity in disturbed habitats by human action. However, recent studies with other taxa suggest that agricultural landscapes can support considerable biodiversity. The main goal of this study was to evaluate the spatial-temporal distribution and abundance patterns of leaf-litter amphibians inhabiting a silvicultural landscape. This study was conducted at Três Lagoas and Arca farms, located in the Upper Paranapanema basin, state of São Paulo, in southeastern Brazil. The data collection was carried out from August 2007 to July 2009 in monthly sampling campaigns. A grid of sampling units (n = 30) formed by pitfall traps were distributed over Eucalyptus plantations (n = 18), native vegetation (n = 7) and abandoned pastures (n = 5). A total of 1047 leaf-litter individuals from 18 species were captured in the study area. The leaf-litter amphibian assemblage was composed predominantly by Physalaemus cuvieri (58.6%), Physalaemus nattereri (13.1%), and P. marmoratus (13.0%). There was a significant difference in species richness and abundance between environments, surprisingly with the lowest species richness and abundance in the native vegetation. However, there was no relationship between species richness and relative abundance considering the distance of water bodies or the native vegetation. The results of this study suggest that silvicultural landscapes may have some conservation value. In order to improve it, it is necessary to maintain conservation areas within the landscape, as well as to stimulate innovation in silvicultural wildlife-friendly management practices.