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Title: The art of ecology: should we practice what we preach? a review of Don Elgin's the comedy of the fantastic.
Creator: Miller, Arin, Comparative Studies Program, Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters
Date Issued: 2008-10-24
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/FADT165242p
Subject Headings: Fantastic fiction, American -- History and criticism, Elgin, Don D., American fiction -- 20th century -- History and criticism, Ecology in literature
Format: Set of related objects

Title: Hat weaving with Jipi, Carludovica palmata (Cyclanthaceae) in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico.
Creator: Fadiman, Maria
Abstract/Description: Weaving hats with jipi, Carludovlca palmata (Cyclanthaceae) has built the local economy and cultural identity for the people of Becal, in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. They obtain most material from cultivated sources, weave in man-made caves, and market the goods to commercial centers. Because Jipi does not appear to deplete the sod, they do not need to clear more land for sustainable production. Although weaving traditionally served as the main source of income and social activity in Becal...
Show moreWeaving hats with jipi, Carludovlca palmata (Cyclanthaceae) has built the local economy and cultural identity for the people of Becal, in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. They obtain most material from cultivated sources, weave in man-made caves, and market the goods to commercial centers. Because Jipi does not appear to deplete the sod, they do not need to clear more land for sustainable production. Although weaving traditionally served as the main source of income and social activity in Becal, interest in weaving is declining as the town modernizes. Although profits gained from weaving add to family earnings, because of the many hands through which the hat passes, this income remains low compared to the final selling prices. Thus, many who have the opportunity to pursue other careers are doing so. However, for rural communities, without other earning options, weaving may provide an economically and environmentally advantageous way to use the land.
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Date Issued: 2001
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/165385
Subject Headings: Weaving--Mexico, Hat trade, Ethnobotany--Mexico--Yucatan, Indigenous peoples--Ecology--Mexico--Yucatan, Sustainable development--Mexico--Yucatan
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Effects of prescribed burning on native and exotic herpetofauna in Florida pine flatwoods in Savannas Preserve State Park.
Creator: Goethel, Carrie Ann., Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College
Abstract/Description: Florida's pine flatwoods are pyrogenic ecosystems that require frequent fires to regenerate the herbaceous layer and suppress crowding vegetation. Human development has hindered these natural fires and consequently affected the herpetofauna (amphibian and reptile) species. Anthropogenic encroachment, in addition to fire suppression, has also provided ideal habitats for invasive species within native environments. Exotic species are often found in developed areas around buildings and roads,...
Show moreFlorida's pine flatwoods are pyrogenic ecosystems that require frequent fires to regenerate the herbaceous layer and suppress crowding vegetation. Human development has hindered these natural fires and consequently affected the herpetofauna (amphibian and reptile) species. Anthropogenic encroachment, in addition to fire suppression, has also provided ideal habitats for invasive species within native environments. Exotic species are often found in developed areas around buildings and roads, and it is likely this pattern continues into the park. This eight-month coverboard survey focuses on the effects various fires may have on herpetofauna in the area and explores the level of intrusion exotic species exhibit within the communities. Minimal differences among herpetofauna composition between transects were found. However, a convincing percentage of exotic species were found only within the first ten meters of the transects while all native species were at least 25 meters into a transect.
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Date Issued: 2007
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/11611
Subject Headings: Prescribed burning, Environmental aspects, Reptiles, Habitat, Scrub pine, Ecology, Savannas Preserve State Park (Fla.), Wildlife conservation
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Florida’s Deep-water Oculina Reefs: A National Treasure in Peril.
Creator: Selch, Donna, Reed, John, Cousin, Brian
Abstract/Description: Documentary of the discovery, research and and efforts to protect the deep-water Oculina coral reefs off Florida. These Oculina reefs occur exclusively off eastern Florida at depths of 300 ft, and nowhere else on earth. First discovered by Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution scientists with the Johnson-Sea-Link submersibles in 1975, they were made the first deep-water coral marine protected area in the world in 1984. Conservation efforts continue today to prevent destructive bottom trawl...
Show moreDocumentary of the discovery, research and and efforts to protect the deep-water Oculina coral reefs off Florida. These Oculina reefs occur exclusively off eastern Florida at depths of 300 ft, and nowhere else on earth. First discovered by Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution scientists with the Johnson-Sea-Link submersibles in 1975, they were made the first deep-water coral marine protected area in the world in 1984. Conservation efforts continue today to prevent destructive bottom trawl fisheries from fishing within the Oculina Habitat Area of Particular Concern. Funding by the LINK foundation. Dedicated to Dr. Robert Avent & Edwin Link
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PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FAUIR000388
Subject Headings: Coral reef conservation--Florida, Coral reef ecology--Research--Florida., Oceanography--Florida.
Format: Video file

Title: Beach dynamics, beachfront development, and climate change: Interactions that impact sea turtle nesting beaches.
Creator: Bladow, Rachel A., Milton, Sarah L., Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Abstract/Description: Climate change will expose sea turtle nests to higher temperatures and more storms; both may negatively impact sea turtle nest success. In this study, unhatched eggs were collected from the Boca Raton, Florida beach and developmental stage at embryonic death determined. Elevated nest temperatures increased embryonic mortality, and the most significant relationship was between mortality and the percent of time embryos were exposed to temperatures above 34°C. Loggerhead turtles exhibited higher...
Show moreClimate change will expose sea turtle nests to higher temperatures and more storms; both may negatively impact sea turtle nest success. In this study, unhatched eggs were collected from the Boca Raton, Florida beach and developmental stage at embryonic death determined. Elevated nest temperatures increased embryonic mortality, and the most significant relationship was between mortality and the percent of time embryos were exposed to temperatures above 34°C. Loggerhead turtles exhibited higher rates of mortality compared to green turtles at temperatures above 34°C. Only loggerhead nests were exposed to inundation, but embryonic mortality did not differ from noninundated nests. Beach profiles across the nesting season were also determined. A major storm altered the beach more in areas of coastal development; however, this was impacted by a nourishment project and the presence of a structured inlet. Future management strategies may need to protect sea turtle nests from extended periods at elevated temperatures.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005926
Subject Headings: Dissertations, Academic -- Florida Atlantic University, Sea turtles--Ecology., Loggerhead turtle--Florida., Sea turtles--Nests., Climate change
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: An Analysis of the Demography and Habitat Usage of Roatan's Spiny-tailed Iguana, Ctenosaura oedirhina.
Creator: Campbell, Ashley B., Maple, Terry, Gawlik, Dale E., Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Psychology
Abstract/Description: The Roatan Spiny-tailed Iguana (Ctenosaura oedirhina) is endemic to the 146-km2 island of Roatn, Honduras. Harvesting for consumption, fragmentation of habitat, and predation by domestic animals threaten this lizard. It is currently listed as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), as threatened by the Honduran government, and is on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). This species has been geographically...
Show moreThe Roatan Spiny-tailed Iguana (Ctenosaura oedirhina) is endemic to the 146-km2 island of Roatn, Honduras. Harvesting for consumption, fragmentation of habitat, and predation by domestic animals threaten this lizard. It is currently listed as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), as threatened by the Honduran government, and is on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). This species has been geographically fragmented and genetically isolated into small subpopulations that are declining in density. With data gathered from use/availability surveys, resource selection functions were used to identify habitats and environmental variables associated with their presence. Results indicate that protection from harvesting is the most important factor in determining their distribution. These high-density populations are currently restricted to ~0.6 km2. Organisms living in small, isolated populations with very restricted ranges are at higher risk of extirpation due to various direct and indirect forces. Mark-recapture-resight surveys and distance sampling have been used to monitor the populations since 2010 and 2012 respectively. The data show that the high-density populations are declining. The current population size is estimated to be 4130-4860 individuals in 2015. A population viability analysis (PVA) was conducted to identify the most pressing threats and specific life history traits that are affecting this decline. The analysis estimates that if current trends persist, the species will be extinct in the wild in less than ten years. Adult mortality is a main factor and female mortality specifically characterizes this decline. In order for this species to persist over the next fifty years, adult mortality needs to be reduced by more than 50%. A lack of enforcement of the current laws results in the persistence of the main threat, poaching for consumption, thus altering the species distribution and causing high adult mortality. This is complicated by social customs and a lack of post primary education. Management changes could mitigate this threat and slow the population decline. Recommendations include an education campaign on the island, increased enforcement of the current laws, and breeding of C. oedirhina in situ and ex situ for release into the wild.
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Date Issued: 2015
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004486, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004486
Subject Headings: Adaptation (Biology), Conservation biology -- Honduras -- Roatán Island, Iguanas -- Black spiny tailed -- Honduras -- Roatán Island -- Habitat., Roatán Island (Honduras) -- Ecology
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Differentiating decomposition rates within the ridge-slough microtopography of the central Florida Everglades.
Creator: Van der Heiden, Sheryl R., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Abstract/Description: The relative rates of detrital decomposition in four vegetation communities within the Everglades' ridge-slough microtopography were evaluated during two trials. Litterbags with community-specific detritus in proportion to each community's composition were put into the four communities; namely, submerged marsh, emergent marsh, short Cladium ridge, and tall Cladium ridge. These litterbags were paired with litterbags containing control leaf litter from Chrysobalanus icaco and Salix caroliniana...
Show moreThe relative rates of detrital decomposition in four vegetation communities within the Everglades' ridge-slough microtopography were evaluated during two trials. Litterbags with community-specific detritus in proportion to each community's composition were put into the four communities; namely, submerged marsh, emergent marsh, short Cladium ridge, and tall Cladium ridge. These litterbags were paired with litterbags containing control leaf litter from Chrysobalanus icaco and Salix caroliniana during the wet and dry season trials, respectively. No regional differences in decomposition were shown, but there were significant differences across communities, attributed to the initial C:N ratio of the detritus, with the fastest decomposition occurring in the deepest submerged marsh followed by emergent marsh, and the shallower ridge communities had equally slower decomposition. Additionally, both controls followed the same pattern. Thus, decomposition contributes to an active self-maintenance mechanism within the vegetation communities which ultimately helps to conserve the ridges and sloughs.
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Date Issued: 2008
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/166456
Subject Headings: Biogeochemistry, Surfaces (Technology), Measurement, Vegatation dynamics, Mathematical models, Wetland ecology
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Elevated pCO2 effects on the macroalgal genus Halimeda: Potential roles of photophysiology and morphology.
Creator: Peach, Katherine, Koch, Marguerite, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Abstract/Description: While ocean acidification (OA) is predicted to inhibit calcification in marine macroalgae, species whose photosynthesis is limited by current dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) levels may benefit. Furthermore, variations in macroalgal morphology will likely give rise to a range of OA tolerance in calcifying macroalgae. One genus of calcifying macroalgae that has shown varying species’ tolerance to OA is Halimeda, a major carbonate sediment producer on tropical reefs. Species within this genus...
Show moreWhile ocean acidification (OA) is predicted to inhibit calcification in marine macroalgae, species whose photosynthesis is limited by current dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) levels may benefit. Furthermore, variations in macroalgal morphology will likely give rise to a range of OA tolerance in calcifying macroalgae. One genus of calcifying macroalgae that has shown varying species’ tolerance to OA is Halimeda, a major carbonate sediment producer on tropical reefs. Species within this genus occupy a range of habitats within tropical environments (reefs and lagoons), illustrating their ability to adapt to diverse environmental conditions (e.g. carbonate chemistry, irradiance). To date it is not clear if morphological and photophysiological diversity in Halimeda will translate to different tolerances to OA conditions (elevated pCO2 and lower pH).
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Date Issued: 2016
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004621
Subject Headings: Coral reef ecology., Chemical oceanography., Halimeda., Environmental mapping., Plants--Effect of light on., Plant physiology., Photobiology., Carbon cycle (Biogeochemistry)
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Diet of the Purple Swamphen in south Florida and invasion pathways of nonnative avian species in Florida.
Creator: Callaghan, Corey, Gawlik, Dale E., Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Center for Environmental Studies
Abstract/Description: The spread of nonnative invasive species has become the second greatest threat to global biodiversity, making management of invasive species a critical component of the conservation of biodiversity worldwide. Managers and conservation biologists often lack basic life history data, as well as quantitative and theoretical models to predict risk of invasion or other negative effects. I contribute information to both categories by providing life history information (diet and morphology) of the...
Show moreThe spread of nonnative invasive species has become the second greatest threat to global biodiversity, making management of invasive species a critical component of the conservation of biodiversity worldwide. Managers and conservation biologists often lack basic life history data, as well as quantitative and theoretical models to predict risk of invasion or other negative effects. I contribute information to both categories by providing life history information (diet and morphology) of the Purple Swamphen (Porphyrio porphyrio) and by characterizing the invasion pathways that nonnative avian species in Florida follow. I found Purple Swamphens are predominantly eating and selecting for Eleocharis cellulosa. Additionally, there is a large amount of variation in nonnative avian species’ propensity to colonize natural habitat and the time it takes to do so. Nine out of 15 species investigated colonized natural habitat and the time it took them to do so ranged from 8 to 41 years. It is through a combination of various techniques that ecologists will begin to fully understand the importance of studying nonnative species as well as reducing the impact that nonnatives have on native ecosystems.
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Date Issued: 2015
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004433, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004433
Subject Headings: Birds--Behavior., Birds--Habitat., Adaptation (Biology), Biological invasions., Introduced organisms., Ecological risk assessment--Florida.
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Nutrition and habitat driven foraging of wild dolphins in the Bahamas: a recipe for prey.
Creator: Malinowski, Christopher R., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Abstract/Description: Two sympatric dolphin species, Stenella frontalis and Tursiops truncatus, resident to Little Bahama Bank, Bahamas were found to mostly forage independent of one another, but occasionally foraged in mixed groups. Analysis of over 20 years of data revealed the degree of overlap to be minimal with spatially distinct regions identified for both species, environmental segregation based on depth, bottom type, temperature, and time of day. Results based on observational data indicated significant...
Show moreTwo sympatric dolphin species, Stenella frontalis and Tursiops truncatus, resident to Little Bahama Bank, Bahamas were found to mostly forage independent of one another, but occasionally foraged in mixed groups. Analysis of over 20 years of data revealed the degree of overlap to be minimal with spatially distinct regions identified for both species, environmental segregation based on depth, bottom type, temperature, and time of day. Results based on observational data indicated significant differences in group size and selected prey. For S. frontalis, lactating females had the most distinct diet, which differed from that of non-reproductively active (NRA) females. Pregnant females had ambiguous prey use results, but diet differences were revealed through nutritional analysis. Lactating females had a higher intake of all nutrients (% moisture, % lipid, % protein, and calories) than pregnant females but lower than NRA females. Mother and calf pairs selected prey for caloric and moisture values. The influence of calves on foraging groups was reflected through discrete differences in all nutrients. Males and females appeared to select the same major prey, but female prey use was much more diverse.
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Date Issued: 2011
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3318668
Subject Headings: Dolphins, Habitat, Predatory marine animals, Ecology, Marine ecosystem management, Predation (Biology), Aquatic mammals, Behavior
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Phosphorus limitation in reef macroalgae of South Florida.
Creator: Kehler, Courtney., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Center for Environmental Studies
Abstract/Description: Nitrogen (N) has traditionally been regarded as the primary limiting nutrient to algal growth in marine coastal waters, but recent studies suggest that phosphorus (P) can be limiting in carbonate-rich environments. To better understand the importance of P. alkaline phosphatase activity (APA) was measured in reef macroalgae in seven counties of south Florida ; several significant trends emerged : 1) APA decreased geographically from the highest values in Dada>Monroe>Palm Beach>St. Lucie...
Show moreNitrogen (N) has traditionally been regarded as the primary limiting nutrient to algal growth in marine coastal waters, but recent studies suggest that phosphorus (P) can be limiting in carbonate-rich environments. To better understand the importance of P. alkaline phosphatase activity (APA) was measured in reef macroalgae in seven counties of south Florida ; several significant trends emerged : 1) APA decreased geographically from the highest values in Dada>Monroe>Palm Beach>St. Lucie>Broward>Martin>Lee counties 2) APA varied temporally with increasing nutrient-rich runoff in the wet season 3) APA varied due to taxonomic division Phaeophyta>Rhodophyta>Chlorophyta 4) Nutrient enrichment experiments demonstrated that increased N-enrichment enhanced P-limitation while increased P decreased P-limitation. These results suggest that high APA observed in carbonate-rich waters of Dade County and low APA in Broward County resulted from high nutrient inputs associated with anthropogenic nutrient pollution.
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Date Issued: 2012
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3358598
Subject Headings: Nitrogen, Environmental aspects, Coral reef ecology, Coral reef biology, Marine algae, Physiology, Algal communities, Physiology
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Population distribution of Liguus fasciatus solidus in Long Pine Key of Everglades National Park.
Creator: Fadely, Jason R., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
Abstract/Description: The study examined the past and present spatial distribution of the Florida tree snail, L. fasciatus solidus, in the Long Pine Key area of the Everglades National Park. Remote sensing and mobile GIS were used to create a GIS database of the field research results. Collection and survey-based data were used to create a current spatial distribution map of L. fasciatus solidus throughout the Long Pine Key area. The data collected during the 2006 survey were compared to a 1931 survey of the same...
Show moreThe study examined the past and present spatial distribution of the Florida tree snail, L. fasciatus solidus, in the Long Pine Key area of the Everglades National Park. Remote sensing and mobile GIS were used to create a GIS database of the field research results. Collection and survey-based data were used to create a current spatial distribution map of L. fasciatus solidus throughout the Long Pine Key area. The data collected during the 2006 survey were compared to a 1931 survey of the same study area conducted by Dr. William Clench of the Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ) of Harvard University. The data was used to determine the success of L. fasciatus solidus from 1931 to 2006, to evaluate a correlation between hammock size and the number of color forms, and to detect migration patterns of L. fasciatus solidus within the Long Pine Key area of Everglades National Park. Based on the average success rate for the seven color forms and the hammocks, the L. fasciatus solidus population in the Long Pine Key area exemplifies one of a stable community. Each color form used for the analysis had a success rate between 67% and 100%. These percentages can only be the worst case scenario based on the fact that many Liguus were not observed, and any others that would have been observed, would only increase the success rate.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/187209
Subject Headings: Mollusks, Habitat, Animal ecology, Ecosystem management
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The ascidian Styela plicata as a potential bioremediator of bacterial and algal contamination of marine estuarine waters.
Creator: Draughon, Lisa D., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Abstract/Description: The tunicate Styela plicata (Ascidiacea) was investigated for its potential use in bioremediation of bacteria and microalgae blooms from estuarine waters. Salinity tolerances, filtration rate, substrate selection, and effects on digested bacteria and ichthyofaunal communities were examined. If acclimated slowly, Styela can be placed in salinities as low as 24 parts per thousand (ppt) before increased fatalities result. An immediate decrease in salinity from 32 ppt to 20 ppt was not...
Show moreThe tunicate Styela plicata (Ascidiacea) was investigated for its potential use in bioremediation of bacteria and microalgae blooms from estuarine waters. Salinity tolerances, filtration rate, substrate selection, and effects on digested bacteria and ichthyofaunal communities were examined. If acclimated slowly, Styela can be placed in salinities as low as 24 parts per thousand (ppt) before increased fatalities result. An immediate decrease in salinity from 32 ppt to 20 ppt was not detrimental at short term exposure (four days). One average-sized (~40g) Styela, exposed to 105 and 106 bacteria or microalgae mL-1, can filter as much as 4.7 L hr-1 and 3.3 L hr-1, respectively. Individual tunicate filtration rates varied from hour to hour, independent of organism size, indicating that filtration rates for this species would be better reported on a population basis rather than on an individual weight or size basis. Bacterial viability in tunicate feces was assessed by ATP analysis. Bacteria were found to be non-viable after passage through the tunicate digestive tract. Filtration of eggs or larvae of recreationally or commercially important fish is of concern. The smallest eggs (~0.6mm) reported in the Indian River Lagoon belong to Cynoscion nebulosus (spotted seatrout) and Bairdiella chrysoura (silver perch). Over the course of two hours, 72.5% of 0.5 mm glass beads (simulated fish eggs) were initially retained, but many were later expelled by the tunicates. For 1.0 mm beads, 49.4% were initially retained and for 2.0 mm beads, 43.5% were initially retained. Neither the size of the oral siphon nor the size of the overall animal was correlated to bead retention. Substrate selection was investigated using the tunicate Phallusia nigra., Newly hatched larvae preferred settling on wood (53.7%), as compared to polyethylene (30.9%), high-density polyethylene (13.0%), and polyvinyl chloride (2.4%). Overall, results of this study indicate S. plicata is very effective at removing bacteria and microalgae from estuarine waters. However, further testing is warranted regarding the unwanted removal of fish eggs and larvae before utilization of S. plicata for bioremedial purposes.
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Date Issued: 2010
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/1927312
Subject Headings: Marine bioremediation, Estuarine ecology, Water quality management, Water quality biological assessment
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Wading bird prey production and prey selection in a dynamic wetland.
Creator: Klassen, Jessica A., Gawlik, Dale E., Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Abstract/Description: Anthropogenic impacts, such as habitat destruction and spread of exotic species, are contributing to the sixth major extinction event in Earth’s history. To develop effective management and conservation plans, it is important to understand the ecological drivers of at-risk populations, assess the ability of a population to adapt to environmental change, and develop research methods for long-term ecosystem monitoring. I used wading birds nesting in the Florida Everglades, USA as a model system...
Show moreAnthropogenic impacts, such as habitat destruction and spread of exotic species, are contributing to the sixth major extinction event in Earth’s history. To develop effective management and conservation plans, it is important to understand the ecological drivers of at-risk populations, assess the ability of a population to adapt to environmental change, and develop research methods for long-term ecosystem monitoring. I used wading birds nesting in the Florida Everglades, USA as a model system to address the challenges of managing and monitoring populations within an ecosystem greatly impacted by anthropogenic activities. Specifically, my project investigated 1) the prey selection of wading bird species, and the role of prey and foraging habitat availability on annual nesting numbers, 2) the ability of using diet change to predict species adaptability to a rapidly changing environment, and 3) the use of sensory data to provide low-cost, long-term monitoring of dynamic wetlands. I found that tricolored herons, snowy egrets, and little blue herons consumed marsh fish larger than those generally available across the landscape. Additionally, number of nests initiated by tricolored herons, snowy egrets, and little blue herons was strongly correlated with the annual densities of large fish available within the Everglades landscape. Conversely, number of nests initiated by wood storks, great egrets, and white ibises was more correlated with the amount of foraging habitat availability across the nesting season. Wood stork diets changed considerably since the 1960’s, consisting of mainly sunfish and exotic fish as opposed to marsh fishes dominant in historical diet studies. Storks also consumed more exotic fish species than they did historically. This diet plasticity and the species’ ability to exploit anthropogenic habitats may be conducive to maintaining population viability as storks experience widespread human-induced changes to their habitat. Sensory-only data models generated complementary results to models that used site-specific field data. Additionally, sensory-only models were able to detect different responses between size classes of fish to the processes that increase their concentrations in drying pools. However, the degree to which sensory variables were able to fit species data was dependent upon the ability of sensors to measure species-specific population drivers and the scale at which sensors can measure environmental change.
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Date Issued: 2016
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004716
Subject Headings: Charadriiformes -- Habitat -- Florida -- Everglades, Ciconiiformes -- Habitat -- Florida -- Everglades, Everglades National Park (Fla.) -- Environmental conditions, Predation (Biology), Wetland ecology, Wildlife conservation
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Risk assessment of the nonnative Argentine black and white Tegu, Salvator merianae, in South Florida.
Creator: Barraco, Liz Anne, Hughes, Colin, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Abstract/Description: The Argentine black and white tegu, Salvator merianae, is a nonnative species that has invaded parts of Florida. The potential impacts of this species on native Florida wildlife are not yet known. This study looks at the stomach contents of 169 S. merianae captured between 2011 and 2013 in south Florida to infer potential impacts of S. merianae and spatial or seasonal shifts in diet. Analysis of 169 GI tracts showed that S. merianae is an omnivorous, terrestrial forager with a broad dietary...
Show moreThe Argentine black and white tegu, Salvator merianae, is a nonnative species that has invaded parts of Florida. The potential impacts of this species on native Florida wildlife are not yet known. This study looks at the stomach contents of 169 S. merianae captured between 2011 and 2013 in south Florida to infer potential impacts of S. merianae and spatial or seasonal shifts in diet. Analysis of 169 GI tracts showed that S. merianae is an omnivorous, terrestrial forager with a broad dietary range which includes insects, fruits, plants, snails, crayfish, carrion, birds, small mammals, turtles, snakes, lizards, frogs and eggs. S. merianae diet composition varied with capture habitat, the fattest tegus were collected from disturbed/agricultural areas and these samples contained, primarily, gastropods and insects. Tegu dietary habits threaten local endangered and state listed species such as the American crocodile, Crocodylus acutus, and the Cape Sable seaside sparrow, Ammodramus maritimus mirabilis. Dedicated funds and efforts need to be focused on this species to limit its further spread and future impact on native species.
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Date Issued: 2015
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004344, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004344
Subject Headings: Adaptation (Biology), Ecological risk assessment -- Florida, Introduced reptiles -- Florida -- Identification, Lizards -- Florida -- Identification, Nonindigenous pests -- Geographical distribution, Predation (Biology)
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Civic environmentalism: A model for Everglades restoration and a sustainable South Florida.
Creator: Jabour, Teresa U., Florida Atlantic University, Lenz, Timothy
Abstract/Description: The Everglades restoration is now the centerpiece for environmental policymaking in South Florida. The 1991 settlement of the Everglades lawsuit marked a new era of environmental politics known as civic environmentalism. Concepts of civic environmentalism are used in this study to determine if policies developed since the 1991 lawsuit settlement support a successful Everglades restoration and a sustainable South Florida, a vital connection that ensures the socio-economic health of the built...
Show moreThe Everglades restoration is now the centerpiece for environmental policymaking in South Florida. The 1991 settlement of the Everglades lawsuit marked a new era of environmental politics known as civic environmentalism. Concepts of civic environmentalism are used in this study to determine if policies developed since the 1991 lawsuit settlement support a successful Everglades restoration and a sustainable South Florida, a vital connection that ensures the socio-economic health of the built environment as well as the environmental health of South Florida's unique ecosystems. Indicators reveal that legislation supports a democratic process, but a nonformal model of civic environmentalism demonstrates that there are weaknesses in many areas, especially on the local level. Results of the study suggest that even though civic environmentalism prevails in some cases, stronger policies that connect both the built and natural environment will be necessary to ensure a successful Everglades restoration and a sustainable South Florida.
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Date Issued: 2003
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/13014
Subject Headings: South Florida Water Management District (Fla), Restoration ecology--Florida--Everglades, Sustainable development--Florida, Environmental policy--Florida--Everglades
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Ecological characterization of a disturbed hardwood forest.
Creator: Dehring, Faith Jennifer., Florida Atlantic University, Austin, Daniel F.
Abstract/Description: The oak hammock within the Flamingo Road ESL in Broward County, Florida has been disturbed by a number of factors. Twenty-one permanent plots were established to characterize the vegetation of the site and to determine the impact of non-natives on diversity and stability of the hammock. Non-native species may reduce species diversity and stability of communities. Point quarter sampling was compared to quadrat sampling. High percentages of non-native species in hammock sampling plots reduced...
Show moreThe oak hammock within the Flamingo Road ESL in Broward County, Florida has been disturbed by a number of factors. Twenty-one permanent plots were established to characterize the vegetation of the site and to determine the impact of non-natives on diversity and stability of the hammock. Non-native species may reduce species diversity and stability of communities. Point quarter sampling was compared to quadrat sampling. High percentages of non-native species in hammock sampling plots reduced Sorensen index of community similarity values below the 50% minimum used to define intact communities. Hammock plots were placed in the same clade as non-native plots by average linkage cluster analysis. Additional analysis separated the hammock plots from the non-native plots. The percent of non-natives (individuals and species) did not reduce diversity in the hammock. The hammock remains intact despite disturbances and invasions by non-natives.
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Date Issued: 1998
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/15573
Subject Headings: Hardwoods--Florida--Broward County, Environmentally sensitive areas--Florida--Broward County, Forest ecology--Florida--Broward County
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Ecomorphology of Shark Electroreceptors.
Creator: Cornett, Anthony D., Kajiura, Stephen M., Florida Atlantic University
Abstract/Description: Sharks possess an electrosensory system which allows the detection of electric fields . How this system varies among related taxa and among species inhabiting different environments remains unexplored. Electroreceptor number was quantified for representative species of related taxa (genera, families, orders) from different environments (pelagic, coastal, deepwater) and taxa from similar environments to determine potential phylogenetic constraint or evolutionary convergence. Coastal open water...
Show moreSharks possess an electrosensory system which allows the detection of electric fields . How this system varies among related taxa and among species inhabiting different environments remains unexplored. Electroreceptor number was quantified for representative species of related taxa (genera, families, orders) from different environments (pelagic, coastal, deepwater) and taxa from similar environments to determine potential phylogenetic constraint or evolutionary convergence. Coastal open water sharks possess the greatest number of electroreceptors; deepwater sharks the least. Pelagic and coastal benthic sharks retain comparable electrosensory pore numbers despite inhabiting vastly different environments. Electrosensory pores were primarily located in ventral distributions, except among coastal open water sharks which possess roughly even distributions around the head. Among related species and genera, pore numbers and distribution are comparable, with greater variation among higher taxa. Results implicate evolutionary convergence as the primary influence in electroreceptor development, while phylogenetic constraint establishes similar base values for number and distribution.
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Date Issued: 2006
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00000737
Subject Headings: Sharks--Ecology, Sharks--Morphology, Echolocation (Physiology), Aquatic animals--Physiology, Senses and sensation, Adaptation (Biology)
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Factors Affecting Wading Bird Prey Concentrations in the Everglades During the Dry Season.
Creator: P. Brian Garrett, Gawlik, Dale E., Florida Atlantic University
Abstract/Description: One factor that potentially controls the distribution and density of wading bird prey within open-water marsh habitats during seasonal drying events is the amount of available aquatic habitat, which is partly a function of the amount of microtopographic relief at a given location. To determine how microtopographic relief affects prey concentrations during dry-downs a simulation model was developed and run using empirical microtopographic data collected from the Everglades. The simulation...
Show moreOne factor that potentially controls the distribution and density of wading bird prey within open-water marsh habitats during seasonal drying events is the amount of available aquatic habitat, which is partly a function of the amount of microtopographic relief at a given location. To determine how microtopographic relief affects prey concentrations during dry-downs a simulation model was developed and run using empirical microtopographic data collected from the Everglades. The simulation suggests that those locations within the marsh with higher levels of microtopographic relief concentrate prey earlier during the dry-down period and potentially to greater densities overall. In addition, a model selection analysis was performed on field data to determine which set of factors displayed the greatest effects upon prey concentrations during drydown events. When examining the best selected a priori model it appears that the amount of available aquatic habitat, water depth, and macrophyte density have the strongest affects upon concentrations of prey during a seasonal drying event.
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Date Issued: 2007
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00000769
Subject Headings: Water birds--Florida--Everglades, Wetland ecology--Florida--Everglades, Bird populations--Climatic factors--Florida--Everglades
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Floodplain habitat use and movements of two centrarchids within pool B of the Kissimmee River, Florida.
Creator: Giles, Matthew Justin, Florida Atlantic University, Courtenay, Walter R. Jr., Wilzbach, Margaret A.
Abstract/Description: Floodplains are important elements of river-floodplain systems. Numerous riverine fishes utilize floodplain habitats for reproduction, feeding, and protection. Largemouth bass and bluegill sunfish were tracked using radiotelemetry, and environmental parameters were measured at fish locations. Bass and bluegill used habitats with the same physical and chemical characteristics. Floodplain habitats were utilized frequently, as much as main river channel habitats. Fishes used habitats dominated...
Show moreFloodplains are important elements of river-floodplain systems. Numerous riverine fishes utilize floodplain habitats for reproduction, feeding, and protection. Largemouth bass and bluegill sunfish were tracked using radiotelemetry, and environmental parameters were measured at fish locations. Bass and bluegill used habitats with the same physical and chemical characteristics. Floodplain habitats were utilized frequently, as much as main river channel habitats. Fishes used habitats dominated by vegetation, with sand substrates, and that were more stable with regard to environmental conditions. Largemouth bass were more mobile than bluegill sunfish. Fish movements may have been in response to unfavorable environmental conditions, as more mobile fishes were associated with higher water temperatures and lower concentrations of dissolved oxygen.
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Date Issued: 1999
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FADT15728
Subject Headings: Floodplain ecology--Florida--Kissimmee River Watershed, Largemouth bass--Florida--Kissimmee River Watershed, Centrarchidae--Florida--Kissimmee River Watershed
Format: Document (PDF)

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