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Behavioral preference for microclimate conditions across elevation in Plethodon montanus.

Trevor L Chapman1, Joseph R Bidwell1

  • 1Department of Biological Sciences, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee, USA.

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Northern Gray-cheeked salamanders behaviorally regulate temperature based on recent conditions, but consistently seek high humidity. This microclimate selection is key for their survival in changing montane environments.

Keywords:
Plethodonbehavioral preferencemicrohabitat

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Area of Science:

  • Ecology
  • Animal Behavior
  • Climate Change Biology

Background:

  • Behavioral thermoregulation is crucial for ectotherm survival, especially for montane species like the Northern Gray-cheeked salamander (Plethodon montanus) facing climate change.
  • Understanding microhabitat selection is vital as P. montanus populations thrive at higher elevations, potentially due to physiological limitations at lower altitudes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the microhabitat preferences, specifically temperature and relative humidity (RH), of P. montanus.
  • To determine how elevation and seasonal variations influence behavioral thermoregulation and moisture-seeking in this species.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized continuous position-sensing gradient chambers to assess behavioral responses to thermal and RH gradients.
  • Examined seasonal variations in temperature and RH preferences of P. montanus collected from different elevations.

Main Results:

  • Thermal preference was influenced by recent environmental temperatures in high-elevation salamanders, but not in low-elevation ones.
  • All P. montanus individuals consistently preferred the highest available relative humidity (RH) conditions, irrespective of elevation or environmental history.
  • Salamanders exhibited less exploration time when exposed to RH gradients compared to thermal gradients, suggesting a less flexible moisture preference.

Conclusions:

  • Behavioral thermoregulation in P. montanus is influenced by acclimation, with recent temperatures playing a role.
  • Preference for high humidity is a consistent and less flexible trait across elevations and conditions for this species.
  • Microclimate selection, particularly for moisture, is a critical behavioral adaptation for P. montanus survival in changing environments.