Abstract
The loss of temporary freshwater pools on the landscape threatens amphibian habitat. Wetland construction can mitigate habitat loss; however, restoration success relies upon understanding the ecology of both temporary pools and amphibians. To gain insight into the implications of pool construction design for amphibian larvae, I used in-pool enclosures to manipulate two basal resources in pools--sediment and plant litter--and evaluated the effects on wood frog (Lithobates sylvaticus) tadpoles. Mineral sediments reduced tadpole survival, whereas organic sediments provided nutrients to the pool community, suggesting an organic sediment layer should be added in pool construction. Plant litter reduced biomass of benthic algae (periphyton) and limited tadpole growth and development. Construction of pools useful for larval amphibians should promote periphyton biomass, which might involve constructing pools in open-canopy habitats or minimizing inputs of plant litter.