Evaluation of Species Diversity and Ecological Functions of the Anuran Species in Kingwal Swamp, a Highland Wetland of Kenya

Abstract

Class amphibian comprises of bi-phasic life mode organisms sensitive to environmental changes. Anurans being among the class, are considered good indicators of functioning and non-functioning ecosystems (habitat quality). Globally, there has been a decline in anuran populations due to anthropogenic and abiotic factors, which include agricultural activities, wetland degradation, habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Wetlands are considered the most preferable microhabitats as breeding sites for anurans, therefore surveys in tropical wetlands to understand anuran diversity and distribution patterns are desirable and justified for implementation of effective conservation actions. The aim of the study was to evaluate the biodiversity and functional concordance of anuran species in Kingwal Swamp, one of Kenya’s least studied swamps. Through the use of visual encounters and pitfall traps with an x-drift fence, data was gathered in the wet season, morning and evening sampling between April and June 2023 from six sites along the swamp. A total of 664 individuals were recorded, from 15 different anurans belonging to seven different genera and seven families. Ptychadena was the most abundant family, while Hoplobatrachus was the least. The swamp is diverse (H’= 2.271, D = 0.8626) in anuran species with low dominance (0.1374), but evenly distributed (E = 0.6457). Most species encountered preferred insects and frogs in their diet, terrestrial and aquatic microhabitats, specifically stagnant water, and were predominately ground/wet terrestrial dwellers breeding during wet season, and of least concern. The structural complexity of microhabitats along the swamp provided diverse niches and varieties of ways to explore environmental resources, thus species biodiversity is a function of habitat quality and diversity. However, due to increased disturbances, the study recommends nature-based non-governmental organizations and conservationists to engage local people in wetland protection to curb threats for the survival of anurans in Kenya.