The Effect of Habitat Quality on Genetic Diversity in a Riparian Frog Species (Rana boylii)

Jennifer A. Dever

Biology Department., University of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA

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ABSTRACT

DEVER, JENNIFER A.
Biology Department., University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, jadever@usfca.edu

The Effect of Habitat Quality on Genetic Diversity in a Riparian Frog Species (Rana boylii)

Amphibian populations are declining at an alarming rate. Therefore gathering data on existing populations is critical for their proper management. One species that is of concern is the foothill yellow-legged frog (Rana boylii), a river-dwelling amphibian whose historic range has been reduced over 66%. A population existing along the Eel River in northern California was surveyed. This river runs through an area that includes both near-pristine and impacted habitat. For this study, sampling from both regions was conducted. Using molecular markers, the level of genetic variability amongst individuals collected from 13 different tributaries branching off the Eel River was completed. Results indicate that habitat quality has an impact on genetic diversity in this species. Such information is extremely useful for conservation management purposes.