Population ecology of a cryptic arboreal snake (Hoplocephalus bitorquatus)

作者：Shelton, Michael B.^*; Goldingay, Ross L.; Phillips, Stephen S.

来源：Australian Journal of Zoology, 2017, 65(6): 383-390.

DOI：10.1071/ZO18009

• capture-mark-recapture
• Cormack-Jolly-Seber
• Elapidae
• population estimate
• von Bertalaffy growth modelling

Biologists have traditionally been reluctant to study arboreal snakes due to low rates of capture. Overlooking such taxa can mislead interpretations of population trends for data-deficient species. We used regularly spaced transect searches and standard capture-mark-recapture techniques to describe population structure, growth rates, survival and capture probability in a population of the pale-headed snake (Hoplocephalus bitorquatus) in southern Queensland. We obtained data from 194 captures of 113 individual snakes between 2009 and 2015. Using the Cormack-Jolly-Seber method, we estimated apparent annual survival in subadult snakes at 0.23 +/- 0.01 (s.e.) and 0.81 +/- 0.08 for adults. Capture probability was estimated at 0.16 +/- 0.14 per session in subadult snakes and 0.33 +/- 0.06 for adults. Within the red gum forests of our study site, we estimate pale-headed snake density at similar to 13 +/- 7 ha(-1). Using von Bertalanffy growth modelling, we predict that snakes reach sexual maturity after about four years and may live for up to 20. Our results suggest that the species is a 'k' strategist, characterised by slow maturation and low fecundity. These traits suggest that populations will recover slowly following decline, exacerbating the risk of local extinction.

• 出版日期2017