The conversion of natural habitats to agricultural land has significantly contributed to global amphibian declines. However, some amphibian species can utilise habitats within agricultural landscapes, such as farm dams. Despite their potential, the suitability of farm dams for amphibians and the effects of management interventions on habitat values remain poorly understood.

Through her research Michelle aimed to quantify the impacts of management interventions on amphibian biodiversity in farm dams. Her Phd focused on the intensively farmed South West Slopes bioregion of south-eastern Australia, where she delved into the interactions between adult frogs and farm dam management. Specifically, she examined dams which were classified as either enhanced dams, having undergone interventions like fencing to exclude livestock and facilitate revegetation, or control dams, with no interventions.

Michelle's research examines the ecological and biodiversity conservation values of farm dams, emphasising their potential as niche habitats. Her investigation reveals significant habitat use patterns influenced by dam characteristics and surrounding landscape features, highlighting the importance of intervention management, vegetation and water quality in shaping adult frog population dynamics. Additionally, her research examines the sensitive nature of amphibian reproduction. By studying tadpole abundance and growth in enhanced versus control farm dams, she demonstrates the positive effects of intervention management on reproductive success. Importantly, her research delves into how the long-term temporal and spatial patterns of amphibians across agricultural landscapes have adapted to changing climate and management practices. Michelle highlights the need for comprehensive monitoring and empirical studies to fully understand the influences of agricultural practices and climatic variables on frog populations.

Collectively, this thesis expands our understanding of farm dams as vital amphibian habitats in agricultural settings. It demonstrates the potential of strategic management practices to enhance biodiversity conservation and underscores the importance of integrating amphibian monitoring into landscape management strategies.

About the Speaker

Michelle (she/they) is a PhD scholar at the Fenner School of Environment and Society on Ngunnawal/Ngunawal Country. Her research is driven by a passion for amphibian conservation and ecological studies, particularly within agricultural and heavily modified landscapes. Before her PhD at the Australian National University, Michelle earned an undergraduate degree in Animal Science, majoring in Wildlife and Conservation Biology, followed by an honours year at Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, where she received First-Class honours for her research on threatened frog species in wetland ecosystems. Her professional background includes work in native vegetation management, legislation, and landscape ecology.

Michelle is deeply committed to advocating for the queer community in STEM. She has travelled across Australia as a burlesque and drag artist, using her performances based on her research to spread awareness about global frog declines. Michelle aims to engage and educate audiences while championing the representation and inclusion of queer women in STEM. After completing her PhD, she hopes to build a career that combines ecology and culture, with a dedicated focus on elevating and empowering queer communities in these fields.