We found a match
Your institution may have access to this item. Find your institution then sign in to continue.
- Title
The laboratory husbandry of southern toads (Anaxyrus terrestris) and future applications.
- Authors
McCowan, Connor J.
- Abstract
The southern toad, Anaxyrus terrestris, is one of the most unique and integral Anuran species in Flo - ridian ecosystems. Historically, southern toads have fulfilled the role of a mid-level consumer, acting as a balance weight between their invertebrate prey and top-level consumers. In the past decades. southern toads have come under threat from anthropogenic pollution, habitat destruction and invasives species. To better understand the vulnerability and resilience of southern toads and by proxy other Anurans, it is advantageous to bring these animals into the laboratory. In the lab, we can examine their behaviors and ecology in more detail. To study them most accurately in the lab, we must mimic their natural habitat and unique ecology as closely as possible. We look to do this by creating habitats that will mimic the Floridian landscape. The key aspects that will be recreated in their husbandry are their burrowing nature, diverse diet, photocycles, humidity and temperature requirements, in addition to other key notes of their ecology. By keeping these animals in the laboratory, we intend to study their vulnerability to invasive parasites. primarily from cane toads. We will specifically be examining the invasion dynamics of the nematode parasite Rhabdias pseudosphaerocephala that is commonly found in the lung tissue of cane toads. Through this, we will learn if these parasites can spread naturally and how parasitic invasion affects southern toads physiologically. Therefore, by learning more about this incredible animal in the laboratory, we can be better informed about their conservation requirements to best protect the natural chorus of the Floridian night.
- Publication
Florida Scientist, 2024, Vol 87, Issue 3/4, p114
- ISSN
0098-4590
- Publication type
Article