Research Results
After six highly successful years of turtle trapping, Earthwatch scientists have determined the first scientifically credible estimate of terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin) population size in the northern area of Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. At North Forsythe scientists have captured, marked, and released 1,283 individuals and estimated the population size of terrapins to be 2,614 terrapins (minimum=1686 and maximum=3542).
These findings have allowed Earthwatch scientists to determine how human actions impact terrapin populations and behaviour. Use of crab pots, motorized boats, loss of saltmarsh habitat, and deposition of dredge sediment are increasing deaths and injury rates, and reducing dispersal rates and hatching success. With the emerging research findings scientists will enhance the effectiveness of conservation plans for the terrapin in Barnegat Bay.
Diamondback terrapins as indicator species of persistent organic pollutants: Using Barnegat Bay, New Jersey as a case study.
Emily R. Basile, Harold W. Avery, Walter F. Bien and Jennifer M. Keller (2011) Chemosphere, 82 (1): 137-144
Persistent organic pollutants in Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin) tissues and eggs, and sediments in Barnegat Bay, New Jersey.
Emily R. Basile (2010)
Determining behavioral responses of the Northern Diamondback Terrapin, Malaclemys terrapin terrapin (Schoepff, 1793) to boat traffic.
Andrew S. Harrison (2010)
Sex-biased dispersal and natal philopatry in the Diamondback Terrapin, Malaclemys terrapin.
Claire M. Sheridan, James R. Spotila, Walter F. Bien, Harold W. Avery (2010) Molecular Ecology, 19 (24): 5497-5510
Mating system and dispersal patterns in the Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin).
Claire M. Sheridan (2010)
Anthropogenic impacts on the reproductive ecology of the Diamondback Terrapin, Malaclemys terrapin.
John P. Wnek (2010)