Some Aspects of the Ecology of the Hellbender, Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis, in a Pennsylvania Stream
1971; The Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles; Volume: 5; Issue: 3/4 Linguagem: Inglês
10.2307/1562734
ISSN1937-2418
AutoresRobert E. Hillis, Edward D. Bellis,
Tópico(s)Marine and fisheries research
ResumoEcology of hellbenders (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis) was studied in French Creek of northwestern Pennsylvania. The 220 m x 70 m study area formed a grid with markers at 10 m intervals. Hellbenders were individually marked; 152 individuals were captured and 81 recaptured at least once. Hellbenders were most abundant in relatively shallow rapids areas and utilized large rocks for cover. The mean distance between successive captures was small, 54.8 per cent showing inter-capture distances of 10 m or less; maximum distance was 160 m. Males did not differ significantly from females in the median distance between successive captures. The average mean activity radius was 10.5 m and most home ranges were small. Hellbenders showed a tendency to home upstream or downstream after displacement. They defended the area under a cover rock. The sex ratio was 1.58 males to one female. Most captured were sexually mature. * * *
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