Abstract:
We studied the amphibian diversity and the influence of abiotic factors across 12 watershed zones in the Western Ghats region of Goa, India. Surveys conducted at 102 sampling sites recorded 22 amphibian species, including eight Western Ghats endemics. Species richness and diversity were highest in watersheds with intermediate canopy cover and deeper leaf litter. Pearson correlation analysis identified leaf litter depth, humidity, and temperature as key factors influencing amphibian diversity. The findings highlight the importance of forest floor microhabitats and microclimatic conditions in shaping amphibian communities and emphasize the need to conserve structurally diverse forest habitats in the Western Ghats.
