Intraspecific Variation in Morphology of Larval Amphibians and the Influence of Morphology on Predator-Prey Interactions, Poster 30

Morphology has an important influence on behavior, which in turn shapes the roles that individuals play in ecological communities. Consequently, variation in individual morphology can scale up to affect species interactions.... [ view full abstract ]

Morphology has an important influence on behavior, which in turn shapes the roles that individuals play in ecological communities. Consequently, variation in individual morphology can scale up to affect species interactions. In this study, I examined the intraspecific variation in morphology of spotted salamander (Ambystoma maculatum) larvae and gray tree frog (Hyla versicolor) tadpoles between ponds and mesocosms in east, central Missouri and the influence this variation has on predator-prey interactions between A. maculatum (predator) and H. versicolor (prey). Linear and geometric methods of morphology analysis were used to assess the intraspecific variation and influence on predator and prey behavior. Both methods revealed intraspecific variation in shape and size between the ponds/mesocosms; however, neither revealed a significant morphological influence on predator-prey interactions. Ponds, mesocosms, and larval density were the most influential variables on predator success for A. maculatum and prey survival for H. versicolor.