The Protected Amphibian Species Survey Project at Kunsan US Air Force Base (Base) in South Korea was created to determine the occurrence, general distribution, habitat preferences, and ecosystem management needs for two protected species expected to occur on Base, including the Korean golden frog (Pelophylax chosenicus) and the narrow-mouthed frog (Kaloula borealis). Prior to conducting a field survey, relevant literature was reviewed to understand the general habitat preferences, habits, and identification details of the various amphibian species that could be expected to be found on Base. Field surveys were conducted to identify: frog habitat, seasonal variation in abundance, areas that are key to reproductive success, overwintering areas, and other areas or behavior which are important for the survival of the protected species. Visual Encounter Surveys were conducted at 41 newly established survey points in or near areas of aquatic habitat in an attempt to capture and/or identify all amphibian species present on Base.
Results/Conclusions
A total of four amphibian species were captured and identified, including the American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus), dark-spotted frog (Pelophylax nigromaculata), Korean golden frog, and narrow-mouthed frog. The Korean golden frog is only known from the western portion of the Korean peninsula and appears to be relatively widespread and abundant on Base. They were found at 14 of the 41 survey points and were most abundant in wetlands modified by Base maintenance activities. The narrow-mouthed frog is only known from eastern Asia and may be relatively widespread on the Base, although adult frogs were only found at two of the 41 survey points (both in upland sites). Based on the literature review and field survey, there are numerous recommendations and ecosystem management needs for the protected species including: protection of wetlands and uplands (and their linkages), removal of non-native predators, modification of Base maintenance activities, education of Base personnel, and collecting more field data.
