The habitat use of amphibians in Lake Izunuma-Uchinuma and adjacent areas, northern Japan

Abstract

The habitat use of amphibians was investigated in paddy fields and adjacent habitats in areas around Lake Izunuma-Uchinuma, Miyagi Pref., Japan. Field censuses were carried out in May, June and September 2006. Five species of anuran amphibians were found: Hyla japonica Günther, Rana japonica Günther, Rana porosa porosa Cope, Rhacophorus schlegelii Günther and Rana catesbeiana Shaw, an invasive alien species. Frogs other than Rana catesbeiana bred in paddy fields. After the breeding season, H. japonica inhabited paddy fields, marshy woods and open grassy areas on embankments of the lake, Rana japonica were found in paddy fields and marshy woods. Rhacophorus schlegelii were found in marshy woods. Rana porosa porosa was the most abundant frog found in the study area, and it always inhabited paddy fields. Rana catesbeiana was always found in ponds and ditches.