Quantifying the Movement Efficiency of Terrestrial Salamanders Across Aquatic Barriers

Elaine Langone Center, Terrace Room

Little is known about the swimming ability of terrestrial salamanders. Studies involving displacement have shown that salamanders are capable of crossing streams during long distance travel. However, the efficiency of their movement across aquatic barriers is largely unknown. This study intends to observe the ability of terrestrial salamanders to swim or otherwise cross streams. We will locate individual salamanders under natural cover objects and subject them to trials in an aquatic arena to determine their average burst speed. Possible influences on the results include the size, sex, and species of the salamander. We expect to observe differences between the species and size of the salamander versus their swimming ability.