Life history exist as a set of co-adapted traits designed to solve ecological problems, and theory predicts that in unpredictable environments, these are geared towards relatively slow growth and a long reproductive lifespan with relatively few offspring per reproductive event. However, recently the response of anurans to such conditions has been controversial and little empirical data are published on the response of Australian anurans living under such conditions. Limnodynastes Tasmaniensis is a medium sized endemic frog of the family Myobatrachidae that has an extensive range that encompasses every Australian state. Limited published data indicates that intra-population variation in reproductive parameters exist in this species and therefore it is an ideal model to test life history theory under Australian conditions. A population of the species was studied within remnant woodlands of North West Sydney, Australia. Many observations were made and the results shown in some detail. The data found does not completely conform with current theory developed largely for data collected in the northern hemisphere and highlights the need for further research into life history strategies of Australian anurans. / Doctor of Philosphy (PhD)
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:ADTP/235509 |
| Date | January 2002 |
| Creators | Schell, Christopher B., University of Western Sydney, College of Science, Technology and Environment, School of Science, Food and Horticulture |
| Source Sets | Australiasian Digital Theses Program |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Source | THESIS_CSTE_SFH_Schell_C.xml |
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