Anuran Traits of the United States (ATraiU): a database for anuran traits-based conservation, management, and research

• Published in: Ecology (Durham) 2021-03, Vol.102 (3), p.1-1
• Main Authors: Moore, Chloe E., Helmann, Jacob S., Chen, Ye, St. Amour, Sabine M., Hallmark, Mackenzi A., Hughes, London E., Wax, Noah, Mims, Meryl C.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: amphibian; anura; body size; Conservation; Data Paper; Data points; Data sources; Digitization; frog; Indigenous species; Interspecific; interspecific variation; Introduced species; Life history; metamorphosis; morphology; Statistical analysis; toad; Transparency
• ISSN: 0012-9658; 1939-9170
• DOI: 10.1002/ecy.3261

The United States is home to many anuran species, each with traits that set them apart from one another. Understanding trait variation within and between anurans is key to many successful conservation, management, and research efforts. However, compiling trait data is intensive and time consuming. Trait databases can meet this need, but currently there is no detailed database that collates trait data for anurans of the contiguous United States. into a single location with transparency regarding original data sources. Furthermore, many currently available trait databases rarely report multiple data points for a given species’ trait, frequently reporting a single averaged value. We present an anuran traits database for the contiguous United States that includes trait data from 411 unique references. We collated trait values for 106 native and nonnative species using a tiered search protocol. First, we digitized trait data from 33 state guide books for 12 ecological, morphological, and life history traits commonly reported in the literature. We then performed a targeted search of the primary literature to address data gaps, ultimately identifying an additional 356 peer-reviewed publications, theses, and agency reports with data fitting our criteria. Finally, we digitized trait data from 22 national and regional guidebooks. Following data compilation, we conducted an intensive data quality check procedure that included both manual and statistical analyses. For full transparency, all trait values are traceable to their original reference with additional metrics (e.g., reference count, data tier) to allow users to easily filter the full data set to fit the user’s needs. Overall, we report 89% of included species with trait values for at least half of the 12 traits included, providing high coverage for interspecific analyses. With a high degree of transparency, inclusion of all original data sources, and a tiered system for cataloguing data source type, ATraiU can uniquely contribute to anuran ecology and conservation in the United States. Please cite this data paper when using the data. If using a specific trait value or values, please cite the original reference(s).