Date of Award
1991
Document Type
Thesis
Publication Status
Version of Record
Submission Date
October 2026
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
Austin, Daniel F.
Abstract
Environmental parameters were quantified to develop a physiognomically-based system for describing and predicting gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) habitat on the Florida Atlantic University Nature Preserve. There were significant correlations among gopher tortoise densities and all physiognomic features except saw palmettos. The only feature with predictive usefulness was bare ground as indicated by a multiple regression. Burrows were regularly dispersed and the highest densities occurred in wet prairie associations. Tortoises located burrows in areas with less canopy and shrub cover but greater herbaceous cover and more extensive bare ground. This physiognomically-based system for predicting location of gopher tortoise habitats should prove useful in the relocation of displaced tortoises as required by the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission.
Extent
47 p.
Recommended Citation
Stewart, Mary Catherine, "Habitat structure and the dispersion of gopher tortoises on a nature preserve" (1991). Electronic Theses and Dissertations 1990 - 1999. 182.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_general_4/182
Identifier
FADT14720
Comments
FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 1991.|Charles E. Schmidt College of Science|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection