Microhabitat associations and seasonal dynamics of amphibians in the lateritic rocky outcrops along the western coast of Goa, India

Authors

  • Dipak Yashawant Bowalkar Department of Zoology, DPM’s Shree Mallikarjun and Shri Chetan Manju Desai College, Delem, Canacona, Goa 403702, India & School of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Zoology, Goa University, Taleigao Plateau, Taleigao, Goa 403206, India. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6175-4525
  • Nitin Savlo Sawant School of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Zoology, Goa University, Taleigao Plateau, Taleigao, Goa 403206, India.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.10009.18.8.29470-29482

Keywords:

Anuran, ecotone vegetation, ephemeral pool, ephemeral vegetation, habitat heterogeneity, hill numbers, hydroperiod, indicator species value, plateau ecosystem, seasonal breeding

Abstract

A total of 12 lateritic rocky outcrops in Goa were studied throughout the wet season (May to November) to understand amphibian occurrence and their microhabitat associations. Microhabitat association and seasonal trend were analysed using indicator species value (IndVal) and Hill number analysis. The findings show microhabitats such as ephemeral vegetation, ephemeral pool, and peripheral ecotone vegetation are critical components of outcrops and harbour high IndVal Scores, although seasonal changes significantly influence species distribution and abundance. The findings conclude strong habitat and seasonal association of anurans.  This research contributes to conservation strategies for this unique ecosystem of Goa.

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26-08-2026

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Vol. 18 No. 8 (2026)

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