Microhabitat selection by cave salamander (Eurycea lucifuga) as it relates to relative humidity and temperature

Abstract

Depending upon external conditions the twilight region of a cave can vary in temperature and humidity over time. Abundance of cave salamanders was observed to see if they selected for a more suitable microhabitat depending upon these conditions. The twilight region of two caves where marked off in five meter zones. Relative humidity, temperature, and number of specimens were recorded in each zone. Data was analyzed for statistical correlation. This species is especially important to study due to the scarcity of its natural habitat.