ABSTRACT: The Indiana DNR is launching a new headstarting program for Crawfish frogs (Lithobates areolatus), a state endangered species since 1988, with the purpose of reestablishing the species in extirpated areas within its historic range. Habitat conversion to agriculture has limited the ability of this species to disperse and recolonize areas of suitable habitat across the landscape. We plan to rear Crawfish frog tadpoles in outdoor mesocosms. These rearing methods are modeled after successful headstarting and reintroduction of Dusky Gopher frogs and Gopher frogs, two closely related species in the Southeastern U.S. We will complete a simple density-dependent tadpole rearing experiment to inform husbandry methods and conduct a chytrid/ranavirus coinfection trial to better understand how these endemic diseases may affect tadpole survival in the wild. Metamorphed froglets will be housed in a soft-release enclosures for two weeks at the reintroduction site before release. We are working closely with land managers to enhance Crawfish frog habitat through the creation and modification of breeding wetlands at recovery sites. After this initial pilot year, we will include a radiotelemetry study to better understand dispersal and survival. The Crawfish frog headstarting program in Indiana will build upon achievable initial goals to restore this species in an adaptive management framework.
