Influence of Natural and Artificial Habitats and Microhabitats on Urban Amphibian Diversity and Behavior

Species presence in urban landscapes is driven by complex biological and environmental interactions. In this study, we evaluated habitat and microhabitat selection by amphibians in urban environments using correspondence analysis, multiple correspondence analysis, and preference analysis. Data on habitats, microhabitats, and activities were recorded for 26 amphibian species in urban areas. All species were observed in natural habitats, while only 11 in artificial habitats. Leptodactylus latinasus, Leptodactylus macrosternum, Rhinella arenarum, and Rhinella dorbignyi were found in both habitat types, in both aquatic and terrestrial environments. Most individuals (74%) were recorded in natural habitats, predominantly aquatic ones. In artificial habitats (26%), R. arenarum was the most abundant species, primarily using terrestrial habitats. All species exhibited some degree of habitat preference, even generalist species. Amphibian activities were also linked to habitat type, with natural aquatic habitats primarily used for breeding and natural terrestrial habitats for refuge, foraging, and other activities. Our results highlight that heterogeneous natural habitats promote greater species diversity, while artificial habitats restrict amphibian presence. However, the capacity of certain species to adjust to artificial environments underscores the need to enhance these habitats by adding bodies of water, bare ground, and vegetation of all kinds to support the conservation of urban amphibians.