The Secret Lives of Japanese Temple Frogs
Shrines and temples are urban amphibian hot spots The post The Secret Lives of Japanese Temple Frogs appeared first on Nautilus .
Japanese shrines and temples serve as surprising havens for a diverse array of amphibians, according to a recent study in Urban Ecosystems. These culturally significant landmarks, found in cities like Kyoto, provide crucial water features that attract several frog species. A team of environmental scientists from Kyoto University surveyed 31 temples and shrines in Kyoto's Higashiyama region, discovering at least seven frog species, including both native and invasive ones.
Notably, some of these species, such as the Japanese common toad (Bufo japonicus) and Zhangixalus arboreus, are regionally threatened or require attention. Factors like overhanging trees and water management features seem to influence which species are drawn to these sites. This revelation highlights the unintended ecological impact of urban planning on wildlife, emphasizing the importance of considering the broader effects of our choices on local ecosystems.
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