Guidance for Developing Amphibian Population Models for Ecological Risk Assessment

Area of Science:

• Ecotoxicology
• Amphibian Ecology
• Ecological Risk Assessment

Background:

• Population modeling is underutilized in ecological risk assessments (ERA) despite its ecological relevance.
• Developing systematic frameworks for model parameterization and uncertainty evaluation is challenging for risk assessors.
• Anuran amphibians face population declines due to anthropogenic stressors, necessitating robust risk assessment methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a situation-specific, adaptable framework for population model development in anuran Ecological Risk Assessments (ERA).
• To guide the parameterization, interpretation, and uncertainty evaluation of population models for anuran amphibians.
• To facilitate the assessment of chemical stressors, such as pesticides, on anuran populations.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized data from literature and databases on anuran traits influencing exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability.
• Linked anuran-specific concerns to relevant population modeling methods and structures.
• Focused on data types, model structure, and extrinsic stressors pertinent to anurans.

Main Results:

• Identified key traits influencing anuran exposure likelihood, sensitivity, population vulnerability, and environmental constraints.
• Linked these traits to appropriate population modeling approaches for evaluating pesticide effects.
• Proposed a standardized population modeling approach with specific guidance for anuran ERA.

Conclusions:

• A standardized, adaptable population modeling framework can enhance the routine incorporation of population models in ERA.
• Specific guidance for anuran amphibians aids in quantifying population risks from chemical stressors.
• This approach supports evaluating long-term impacts of anthropogenic stressors on amphibian populations.