Spatial Patterns of Salamander Density Across Human Disturbance Gradients in Warner Parks​

Authors

Siobhan M. Day, Belmont UniversityFollow

Publication Date

Fall 11-11-2025

College

College of Sciences & Mathematics

Department

Biology, Department of

SURS Faculty Advisor

Dr. Chase Kinsey

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Abstract

Amphibians are sensitive to anthropogenic disturbance, making them valuable indicators of recreational impacts in urban parks. This study examines salamander occurrence across five research sites within Warner Parks, Nashville, Tennessee, which differ in trail density and foot traffic intensity. Salamander observations were compiled from two sources: field surveys conducted in Summer 2025 and iNaturalist records spanning the past 10 years. For spatial analysis, each site was defined by a 200 m radius buffer to include local habitat, and trail networks were further buffered at 10 m, 25 m, and 50 m to quantify salamander occurrence relative to trail proximity using point-in-polygon analysis in QGIS. Salamander densities were generally highest within 10 m of trails, with a decline at 25 m and 50 m. iNaturalist records were heavily clustered near high-access areas, particularly around the Nature Center, while field surveys detected salamanders more evenly across sites, including locations further from trails. Correlation analysis indicated a weak negative relationship between density and distance from trails (r = –0.29), and one-way ANOVA showed no significant difference in density across trail buffer distances (F = 1.40, p = 0.26). These results suggest that salamander detection is shaped by both anthropogenic accessibility and habitat availability. Community-science data are influenced by observer accessibility, whereas systematic field surveys capture more cryptic populations. By integrating long-term iNaturalist observations with contemporary field surveys and applying spatial buffers around trails and sites, this study highlights how recreational infrastructure affects amphibian detection and emphasizes the importance of considering anthropogenic disturbance in urban park management and conservation planning.

Recommended Citation

Day, Siobhan M., "Spatial Patterns of Salamander Density Across Human Disturbance Gradients in Warner Parks​" (2025). Science University Research Symposium (SURS). 256.
https://repository.belmont.edu/surs/256