The purpose of this study was to investigate the population ecology, habitat preference and seasonal activity pattern of Formosan salamander (Hynobius formosanus) in Alishan and nearby areas of New Central Crossed Island Highway including Chichung, Sheshan, Tatachia, Lulin cottage, and Shenmulindao. The research was undertaken from January 1990 to April 1991. Results revealed that Formosan salamander preferred habitats with soil substrates containing small gravels and detritus. We discovered that majority of salamanders used stones for hiding (as hides). Although there is some difference among substrate components of six study sites, yet no selection bias was found among salamanders. As for population density, 5.41 individuals/1000m2 from Chichung area is the highest (among these six populations), and 0.98 individuals/1000 m^2 from Lulin is the lowest. In Alishan region, we separated the populations into three age groups, adults (SVL>45mm), subadults (25<SVL<45mm), and juvenile (SVL < 25mm). Juveniles constitute the major part of the population during Spring, then their number decreases gradually and almost is replaced by adults in Winter. Due to the limited recaptured individuals, we were only able to determine the size of home ranges of eight animals from Alishan and Chichung. Home ranges are from 275.13 to 1.18 m2 per individual. Statistically, there is no difference on the size of their activity ranges.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the population ecology, habitat preference and seasonal activity pattern of Formosan salamander (Hynobius formosanus) in Alishan and nearby areas of New Central Crossed Island Highway including Chichung, Sheshan, Tatachia, Lulin cottage, and Shenmulindao. The research was undertaken from January 1990 to April 1991. Results revealed that Formosan salamander preferred habitats with soil substrates containing small gravels and detritus. We discovered that majority of salamanders used stones for hiding (as hides). Although there is some difference among substrate components of six study sites, yet no selection bias was found among salamanders. As for population density, 5.41 individuals/1000m2 from Chichung area is the highest (among these six populations), and 0.98 individuals/1000 m^2 from Lulin is the lowest. In Alishan region, we separated the populations into three age groups, adults (SVL>45mm), subadults (25<SVL<45mm), and juvenile (SVL < 25mm). Juveniles constitute the major part of the population during Spring, then their number decreases gradually and almost is replaced by adults in Winter. Due to the limited recaptured individuals, we were only able to determine the size of home ranges of eight animals from Alishan and Chichung. Home ranges are from 275.13 to 1.18 m2 per individual. Statistically, there is no difference on the size of their activity ranges.