Aggregation and site tenacity under downed logs in Salamandrella keyserlingii (Caudata: Hynobiidae)

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Why is it important?

The habitat availability hypothesis predicts that restricted habitat availability can cause aggregation that plays a role in the initial stages of the evolution of complex sociality. Salamanders inhabiting Darhadyn Wetland, Mongolia, use only downed log refuges (i.e., restricted habitat availability). Some individuals display site tenacity to remain under a specific log. One or more of the same individuals are located continually or frequently under the same logs.