Effects of ultraviolet radiation on amphibians field experiments
Publication Type: |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication: |
1998 |
Authors: |
Blaustein, A.R., Kiesecker, J.M., Chivers, D.P., Hokit, D.G., Marco, A., Belden, L.K. and A. Hatch |
Publication/Journal: |
American Zool. |
Keywords: |
amphibians, field experiements, ultraviolet radiation, uv |
Abstract:
Numerous reports suggest that populations of amphibians from a wide variety of locations are experiencing population declines and/or range reductions. In some cases, unusually high egg mortality has been reported. Field experiments have been used with increasing frequency to investigate ultraviolet radiation as one of the potential factors contributing to these declines. Results from field ex- periments illustrate that hatching success of eggs is hampered by ultraviolet ra- diation in a number of species, while other species appear to be unaffected. Con- tinued mortality in early life-history stages may ultimately contribute to a popu- lation decline. Although UV-B radiation may not contribute to the population de- clines of all species, it may play a role in the population decline of some species, especially those that lay eggs in open shallow water subjected to solar radiation and in those that have a poor ability to repair UV-induced DNA damage.