Puerto Rico’s frogs, most notably the coquis, are playing a vital role in indicating the health of the island’s ecosystems. Scientists are using bioacoustics to monitor environmental changes by tracking frog calls that reflect changes in climate and environmental conditions across the region. Research has shown that many frog species are migrating to higher elevations due to rising temperatures, which is impacting the effectiveness of current wildlife reserves. This data helps researchers understand how climate change is influencing the movements and behaviors of frog populations in Puerto Rico.
One of the challenges in using bioacoustics is accurately estimating population density based on the calls of the frogs. Ben Gottesman from the K. Lisa Yang Center for Conservation Bioacoustics at Cornell University notes that discerning whether multiple calls are from one active individual or numerous less active ones can be complex. Despite this challenge, bioacoustics remains a valuable tool for monitoring frog populations and environmental changes.
Understanding the movements and populations of frogs is significant in the context of climate change and conservation efforts in Puerto Rico. By studying frog populations, scientists can better gauge the impact of environmental changes and guide conservation strategies to protect biodiversity and ecosystem health in the region. This research highlights the interconnectedness between the health of wildlife and our own well-being.
