Gopher Tortoises (Gopherus polyphemus) creates extensive burrows in Florida's fire dependent Slash Pine and Palmetto forests ecosystems that are dependent of fire as a natural part of their ecosystem stability. The gopher tortoise is considered a "keystone" species because its presence or absence determines the presence and survival over over 350 species that have been shown to use their burrows. The availability of these burrows during frequent fires is of course vitally important. The burrows also provide refuge during hot sunny dry days as well as during prolonged droughts. The Gopher Tortoise is a protected species throughout its range.
15 мар 2024
