Document: JAM-3-68-8

Effect of prescribed burning on amphibians in the Francis Marion National Forest, SC.

SCHURBON, J.M.*

University of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424 USA ¹

Abstract:
Fire affects the life cycles, abundance and diversity of plants, birds, mammals and reptiles, but its effect on amphibians is not well known. I determined the effect of prescribed burning on amphibians in loblolly and longleaf pine associations within the Francis Marion National Forest. I monitored amphibian assemblages at 15 ponds that represent 5 different burn histories (0, 1, 3, 5 and >8 years since burn) using drift fences with pitfalls, anuran calling censuses and PVC treefrog shelters. Total species richness did not differ among burn regimes. No direct negative effects of fire on amphibians were detected, probably due to their subterranean habits or residency in unburned areas within and near ponds. Ambystomid salamanders were more common in stands that had not been burned within the previous 3 years. These stands had greater leaf litter volumes, which provided moist microhabitats and moderated subterranean temperatures. Low intensity fires associated with the historical burn frequency of 2-4 years maintained historical vegetation characteristics and allowed leaf litter accumulations required to support amphibian populations.

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This abstract is being presented at: 11:30 AM in session:
Oral Session #38: Amphibian Ecology.