Hydroperiods

Patterns of growth and allometry were similar between ponds of different hydroperiods, but considerable life history variation was derived from modulating the timing of and size at metamorphosis. ❋ Unknown (2010)

Considering maximum rates of growth and inferring the minimum size at metamorphosis, we calculated that hydroperiods longer than three months are necessary to support pond populations through metamorphosis and/or reproductive maturity. ❋ Unknown (2010)

We found that the hydroperiods of many ponds in this region are now shorter than the developmental period required for larvae to reach the minimum size for metamorphosis; these locations serve as reproductive sinks that may be detrimental for persistence of the species in the region. ❋ Unknown (2010)

With massive changes in Everglades hydrology, however, hydroperiods are longer, and crawfish, an important food source for ibis and endangered wood storks, which feed by touch rather than by sight, are fewer.