Kyoto's gardens provide habitats for local amphibians
Where they could once hop and amble freely, urbanization is diminishing amphibians' habitats. Yet small-scale water bodies managed by people—such as those found in the gardens of Japan's temples, shrines and schools—remain within urban areas, providing oases for our moist neighbors.
Amphibians in Kyoto's gardens, such as temples and shrines, offer a habitat for local species despite urbanization shrinking their natural homes. Environmental scientists from Kyoto University investigated whether these water bodies in cultural landscapes could serve as habitats for urban amphibians. They discovered seven frog species and one newt, noting that each species had different relationships with its environment.
The visual and DNA surveys were complementary, with DNA analysis detecting Rana tagoi and direct observation confirming reproduction. These findings highlight the importance of considering cultural water features as biodiversity habitats and could influence the management of gardens and ponds in schools and parks. Researchers aim to collaborate with garden owners to develop approaches that balance cultural heritage and biodiversity.
Written by urgent.news from Phys.org's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
