Population ecology and microhabitat occupation of the frog Hyloxalus subpunctatus (Anura: Dendrobatidae) in a Paramo of the Colombian Andes
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15517/c58f8p61Keywords:
High Andes, population size, population structure, hierarchical models, POPAN modelsAbstract
Introduction: Frogs in the genus Hyloxalus are common in the Colombian Andes. However, there are knowledge gaps on their ecology and population dynamics, particularly in high mountain ecosystems such as the paramo. This lack of information hinders their conservation and understanding of their biogeography. Objective: To estimate population size and structure, as well as microhabitat occupation and use by Hyloxalus subpunctatus within a páramo ecosystem in the Colombian Andes of Colombia. Methods: Five sampling surveys were performed between September 2022 and March 2023 in Paramo de Ocetá, Boyacá, including visual censuses and capture-mark-recapture techniques. Forty individuals were captured, and 7 were recaptured. Population size and structure were analyzed using POPAN models, and microhabitat occupation was assessed with hierarchical models. Results: The estimated population size was 298, with a 2:1 sex ratio skewed towards males, and 15 % of juveniles. The species exhibited a marked preference for moss-dominated microhabitats, both on the surface and within vegetation. The presence of shallow ponds increased the probability of occupation, whereas detectability was influenced by sex and time of the day. Conclusions: In Paramo de Ocetá, H. subpunctatus exhibits a structured population and specialized ecological habitats, contributing to its elusive nature. These results provide baseline data to guide conservation strategies and suggest the need for a taxonomical review of this population.
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