Amphibia & Reptilia Aquatic Ecology

Overview <100 species of Amphibians in N.America –Divided into frogs, toads, salamanders & Newts. 23 species of crocodilians worldwide (all aquatic) 5000 species of frogs & toads 500 species of salamanders (many are aquatic) A few hundred aquatic snakes Approx. 300 turtle species (most are aquatic) Only a few lizards living close to fresh water.

External Structure, Appearance, & Anatomy Most have 4 legs (adult forms), except for snakes

Habitat Amphibians are major group of tetrapods that spend majority of life in fresh water. Most juvenile amphibians live a fish-like existence & leave water as adults. FW snakes & turtles also live underwater, but need to surface for respiration. Aquatic tetrapods use burrows –Aestivation = burrow part of the day to survive hot weather –Hibernation = survive cold weather or take care of young

Swimming & Escape Behavior Large Body Size = Fast powerful movements

Feeding Preferences & Behavior Most tend to be at top of food chain b/c of size. Most are carnivorous, however some can be omnivorous

Life Cycle Most species have separate sexes, eggs are fertilized, & zygote develops into a larval (embryonic) form, then juvenile, & then adult. Eggs of amphibians are laid in water = jelly masses Reptiles lay leathery- shelled eggs in moist vegetation or sand near water.

Ecological Importance They are extremely important because they help control pest animals (rodent and insects) and they in turn serve as food for many other wild animals (mink, raccoons, skunks, owls, hawks, herons, and many fish species). Threatened due to habitat loss/destruction.

Eastern Box Turtle

Anthropogenic Threats

Local Species