Dataset: Redback Salamander Mercury Levels

Methods

The methods followed in the creation of the dataset, including description of field, laboratory and processing steps, and quality control procedures

Current Methods

• Salamander searches
  Started: 2006-05-06
  

  Active searches for Redback Salamanders were conducted in forested habitat on Stratton Mountain and Mt. Mansfield by turning over objects (logs, rocks, etc) where salamanders often hide. All salamanders were captured by hand and placed in a moistened plastic bag and measured (snout-to-vent, and total length). A tissue sample for Hg analysis was collected from each individual by clipping a small (~ 5mm) portion of their tail tip using surgical scissors.

• Release
  Started: 2006-05-06
  

  Salamanders were then immediately released at their point of capture

• Wood Frog tadpole collection
  Started: 2006-05-06
  

  Wood Frog tadpoles were collected using a dipnet from a small breeding pool at the summit of Stratton Mountain (3,928 feet elevation) and measured (snout-to-vent, and total length). All samples were immediately stored in Whirl-pak sample bags and zip locks, then frozen to prevent dehydration. Each sampling location was spatially referenced using GPS, and forest cover type was noted.

Dataset Fields

Detailed documentation of the fields comprising the dataset, including the type of measurement, units where applicable, and any controlled vocabularies or code lists present in the data

Sampling Equipment

Equipment and software used to collect data, including how that equipment was used.

Site Characteristics

The spatial extent of the dataset site coverage, and descriptions of the spatial extent and context for the data collection