The effects of abiotic factors upon the distribution and territory selection of red-back salamanders

Abstract

Abiotic factors soil moisture, soil pH, soil temperature, log decomposition level, log length, and leaf litter height were examined with relation to presence of the Red‐back salamander, Plethodon cinereus in Northern Michigan forests. Sampling was carried out in four ecologically different sites – the moraine, outwash plain, gorge, and grapevine point – in and around the University of Michigan Biological Station. Two abiotic variables, leaf litter height and log length, were found to be significantly correlated to salamander presence under cover objects. Four abiotic variables –soil pH, soil temperature, soil moisture, and log decomposition – were not significantly correlated with salamander presence. We discuss further possible applications of the research in regard to climate change.