According to an eighteen-year mark-recapture study, what was the approximate annual apparent survival rate recorded for male Wood Turtles?
Answer
77%
Long-term field data gathered from mark-recapture studies provides empirical evidence supporting the evolutionary importance of adult survival in K-selected species like the Wood Turtle. One specific eighteen-year study tracked demographic rates, finding that the average annual apparent survival rate for male Wood Turtles was approximately 77%. While this rate might seem relatively high compared to some other species, maintaining such survival rates for adults is crucial because replacing older, experienced breeders is exceptionally difficult given the species' very late age of first reproduction.
Related Questions
What is the modern genus classification for the Wood Turtle, *G. insculpta*, shifting from its historical grouping?Which genus is identified as the sister group to *Glyptemys* in phylogenetic analyses concerning Wood Turtle evolution?The key life history characteristics of *G. insculpta*, such as delayed maturity and long lifespan, are classic examples of which evolutionary selection strategy?What is the typical clutch size range observed when the Wood Turtle nests in sandy or gravelly soils near streams?What specific physical feature characterizes the carapace of the Wood Turtle (*G. insculpta*) distinguishing it morphologically?What critical requirement forces the Wood Turtle's tight coupling to river systems for overwintering?According to an eighteen-year mark-recapture study, what was the approximate annual apparent survival rate recorded for male Wood Turtles?What global conservation status has NatureServe currently assigned to *Glyptemys insculpta*?Why do population declines impact *G. insculpta* so severely despite a relatively wide historical range stretching to Wisconsin and New Brunswick?Besides *G. insculpta*, which other species is recognized as currently existing within the genus *Glyptemys*?