This study aims to understand how climate change may influence nest site selection and embryonic physiology in the Eastern Water Dragon (Physignathus lesueurii) and to determine how variation in these traits facilitates their adaptation to different environments. ACTHA’s funding will assist with the purchase of 40 miniature thermal data loggers which record nest temperatures, and will be used at the Australian National Botanic Gardens (ANBG).
Nadav will compare the nesting behaviour and embryonic responses to temperature in water dragons from populations along their natural distribution, ranging from northern QLD to Kosciusko National Park. The variation between the climatically distinct populations will indicate both the mechanisms and extent of the water dragons capacity to adapt in a changing environment. The intermediate population at the ANBG provides an excellent point of contact with the public and an opportunity to communicate research outcomes and the unique ecology of these reptiles. Nadav will continue and expand the ongoing research program at the ANBG (where he conducted his honours research) and establish a water dragon research website that will serve as a source of information and provide an opportunity for the public to participate in the research by reporting observations of nesting events through online data sheets.
Nadav will compare the nesting behaviour and embryonic responses to temperature in water dragons from populations along their natural distribution, ranging from northern QLD to Kosciusko National Park. The variation between the climatically distinct populations will indicate both the mechanisms and extent of the water dragons capacity to adapt in a changing environment. The intermediate population at the ANBG provides an excellent point of contact with the public and an opportunity to communicate research outcomes and the unique ecology of these reptiles. Nadav will continue and expand the ongoing research program at the ANBG (where he conducted his honours research) and establish a water dragon research website that will serve as a source of information and provide an opportunity for the public to participate in the research by reporting observations of nesting events through online data sheets.
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