Sierra Nevada Aquatic Research Laboratory

22 Aug, 02 AM - 01 Oct, 10 AM

The purpose of this research is to investigate nonnative trout introductions as one possible cause of decline in Yosemite toad (Bufo canorus) populations in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. It is not known if introduced brook (Salvelinus ontinalis) trout are contributing toward Yosemite toad decline as a result of sampling aquatic larval stages of Yosemite toads. The Yosemite toad has evolved in the absence of fish predators and it is not known whether traits for toxicity present in other tadpoles within the genus Bufo have been maintained in Yosemite toad tadpoles. Lack of such chemical defense mechanisms in tadpoles could lead to increased predation risk by trout. Through a series of laboratory controlled experiments I will test the extent to which Yosemite toad tadpoles and metamorphs are susceptible to predation and mortality through trout sampling as well as the behavioral response of Yosemite toad tadpoles to trout chemical cues. The ability of Yosemite toads to respond to predator chemical cues may be an important component in reducing predation risk.

Visit #6534 @Sierra Nevada Aquatic Research Laboratory

Approved

Under Project # 4926 | Research

ANTIPREDATOR RESPONSE AND PALATABILITY OF YOSEMITE TOAD LARVAE TO NONNATIVE BROOK TROUT IN THE SIERRA NEVADA

professional - US Forest Service

Reservation Members(s)

Robert Grasso Aug 22 - Oct 1, 2005 (41 days)

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