Amphibians
Amphibians, a diverse class of animals encompassing frogs, toads, salamanders and newts, exhibit a unique lifestyle, transitioning from aquatic larvae to terrestrial adults. Notable for their permeable skin and ectothermic nature, these organisms are integral to both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.
Amphibians are strong indicators of environmental health due to their sensitivity to ecological changes. However, their global decline, attributed to factors like habitat loss, pollution, climate change, and diseases, underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts.
Prince Edward Island is home to 10 amphibian species.
Wood Frog (Lithobates sylvaticus)
PEI Amphibians List, Government of PEI (2023)
Spotted salamander eggs found in Cotton Park (May 2023)
The Amphibian Life Cycle
Egg Stage
Amphibians usually lay eggs in water or moist environments.
Larval Stage
The eggs hatch into aquatic larvae, often referred to as tadpoles.
Larvae breathe through gills and primarily live in water.
Metamorphosis
As the larvae grow, they undergo metamorphosis.
Limbs develop, the tail diminishes, and lungs replace the gills, marking the transition to a semi-aquatic or terrestrial lifestyle.
Adult Stage
The transformed amphibian emerges from the water and continues its life on land or in both terrestrial and aquatic habitats.
The life cycle of amphibians varies between species, and some may skip certain stages, adapting to their specific environments.
Amphibian Surveys
Common surveys used to monitor amphibians include cover board surveys and call surveys.
Cover board surveys involve the use of artificial cover objects, such as wooden boards or metal sheets, placed on the ground to attract and provide shelter for amphibians and reptiles.
Call surveys include monitoring an area of interest by listening to frog calls at peak hours of activity and distinguishing between all species that are present.
Because amphibians are so sensitive to pollution, monitoring the whereabouts of these creatures helps us to better understand the overall health of an area!
Cover board placed by SAWIG near Bobyer Creek, PE
References
Duellman, W. E., & Trueb, L. (1994). Biology of Amphibians. JHU Press.
National Wildlife Federation. Anphibians. Retrieved from https://www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Amphibians
Government of Prince Edward Island. (2015). PEI Mammals, Amphibians and Reptile List. Retrieved from https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/publication/pei-mammals-amphibians-and-reptile-list