Assessment of habitat suitability in riverine wetland using genetical and physiological analysis of anurans (Pelophylax nigromaculatus)

Habitat suitability assessments are crucial for effective ecosystem management. We conducted genetic and physiological analyses of frog populations to assess the suitability of habitats in riverine wetlands, and compared populations in riverside areas between water channels and river levees, and protected lowlands between river levees and human living spaces. Our results showed unexpected genetic diversity in the riverside population but revealed differences in genetic structure between the two groups. Most physiological indicators were not significantly different, although some blood biochemical indicators revealed hepatic stress in frogs from the protected lowlands. The study suggests that frogs from riverside areas are not necessarily worse in terms of population size or health but may be genetically isolated due to levees. To address this issue, enhancing habitat connectivity is recommended. This study demonstrated the utility of genetic and physiological information for understanding complex habitats and population conditions in the context of ecosystem management.

Automated summary

Habitat suitability assessments are important for ecosystem management. This study analyzed the genetic and physiological characteristics of frog populations in riverine wetlands. The results showed unexpected genetic diversity and differences in genetic structure between populations in different areas. Most physiological indicators were not significantly different, but some blood biochemical indicators indicated hepatic stress in frogs from protected lowlands. Enhancing habitat connectivity is recommended to address the issue of genetic isolation.