Date of Presentation
4-23-2024 9:00 AM
College
College of Science & Mathematics
Faculty Sponsor(s)
Dr. Patrick Crumrine
Poster Abstract
Monitoring turtle populations can help to assess population viability and estimate the effects of human impacts on populations.
The focal species of the present study are common and at lower risk of experiencing drastic declines than more susceptible species. Monitoring the population change of common species can inform how more vulnerable species may respond to human impacts.
Previous studies have shown that the proportion of female turtles in populations decreases as urbanization increases due to higher levels of risk when females leave ponds to lay eggs.
The landscape around Holly Pointe, Discovery Hall, and the Student Center has experienced significant change since the beginning of this project, potentially influencing the population structure of turtles on campus.
Proposed construction on the West Campus could potentially alter turtle populations that currently do not experience much human interaction.
Objectives:
1. Measure species richness of turtle populations on campus;
2. Comprehensively sample turtle populations with the goal of encountering all individuals;
3. Determine sex ratios of turtle populations on an annual basis to see if land use change influences this characteristic; and
4. Use information gleaned to predict how turtle populations on the West Campus may change if proposed construction plans are enacted.
Student Keywords
aquatic turtle populations, Rowan University, 10-year period
Disciplines
Environmental Sciences
Document Type
Poster
Included in
Status of aquatic turtle populations at Rowan University during the 10-year period between 2013 and 2023
Monitoring turtle populations can help to assess population viability and estimate the effects of human impacts on populations.
The focal species of the present study are common and at lower risk of experiencing drastic declines than more susceptible species. Monitoring the population change of common species can inform how more vulnerable species may respond to human impacts.
Previous studies have shown that the proportion of female turtles in populations decreases as urbanization increases due to higher levels of risk when females leave ponds to lay eggs.
The landscape around Holly Pointe, Discovery Hall, and the Student Center has experienced significant change since the beginning of this project, potentially influencing the population structure of turtles on campus.
Proposed construction on the West Campus could potentially alter turtle populations that currently do not experience much human interaction.
Objectives:
1. Measure species richness of turtle populations on campus;
2. Comprehensively sample turtle populations with the goal of encountering all individuals;
3. Determine sex ratios of turtle populations on an annual basis to see if land use change influences this characteristic; and
4. Use information gleaned to predict how turtle populations on the West Campus may change if proposed construction plans are enacted.