Author
William Edward Duellman
1930-2022
William Edward Duellman (1930-2022) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by William Edward Duellman
The Amphibians and Reptiles of Michoacán, México
"The Amphibians and Reptiles of Michoacán, México" by William Edward Duellman is a scientific publication written in the early 1960s. This work focuses on the diverse amphibian and reptile species found in Michoacán, providing an extensive survey of their habitats, distribution, and systematic classification. It aims to fill gaps in previous herpetological studies by offering detailed accounts based on collections and fieldwork conducted over several years. The opening of the work presents an introduction that outlines the author's extensive research and fieldwork in Michoacán, beginning with the backdrop of previous studies in the region. It highlights a mutual endeavor among herpetologists to explore poorly documented areas and emphasizes the author's goal of compiling an annotated list of the amphibians and reptiles of the state. The narrative sets the stage for a structured analysis of the geographical and ecological contexts affecting species distributions, thus establishing the importance of this work for both systematic herpetologists and biogeographers interested in the region's rich biodiversity.
Neotropical Hylid Frogs, Genus Smilisca
"Neotropical Hylid Frogs, Genus Smilisca" by William Edward Duellman and Linda Trueb is a scientific publication written in the mid-20th century. This work focuses on the taxonomy, morphology, and natural history of the frogs belonging to the genus Smilisca, which are primarily found in Central America. The book aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the known species within this genus, exploring their varied ecological adaptations and offering insights into their phylogenetic relationships. The opening of the publication introduces the family Hylidae and contextualizes the genus Smilisca within it, highlighting its geographic distribution and ecological significance. It outlines the challenges in defining hylid genera due to the diversity and complexity of species and details the extensive research conducted, including observational studies and morphological analyses. This initial section sets the foundation for the examination of specific species accounts, morphological characters, breeding behaviors, and the ecological roles these frogs play in their respective habitats. Through a combination of historical references, acknowledgments, and methods used in the study, the authors emphasize the importance of understanding this genus in the context of broader amphibian research.
A Distributional Study of the Amphibians of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, México
"A Distributional Study of the Amphibians of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, México" by William E. Duellman is a scientific publication written in the mid-20th century. The work focuses on the amphibian fauna inhabiting the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, a critical zoogeographic region in Mexico. Duellman's study aims to catalog the species present in this area while also exploring the environmental conditions that contribute to their distribution. The opening of the study introduces the importance of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in the context of Middle American zoogeography. The author outlines the historical context of prior amphibian studies in the region, notes the lack of a comprehensive herpetological record, and posits the significance of the region in understanding amphibian dispersal patterns. Duellman shares insights from his fieldwork, which commenced in the 1950s and includes substantial ecological data collected during various seasons, highlighting the challenges and findings encountered in studying the diverse environments inhabited by amphibians in this unique area.
Type specimens of amphibians and reptiles in the Museum of Natural History, the University of Kansas
"Type specimens of amphibians and reptiles in the Museum of Natural History, the University of Kansas" by William E. Duellman and Barbara Berg is a scientific publication written in the early 1960s. This document serves as a catalog of type specimens housed in the Museum of Natural History at the University of Kansas, focusing primarily on amphibians and reptiles. The book likely aims to enhance the understanding of herpetological diversity through detailed listings of species and their respective type specimens. The content of the book presents an organized list of 125 species and subspecies of amphibians and reptiles, detailing holotypes and paratypes collected primarily from Costa Rica. Each entry provides specific information, including catalog numbers, locality data, collector names, and dates of collection. Alongside the list, the work discusses instances of previous errors in specimen identification and location, thus contributing to the accuracy and reliability of herpetological classification and research. The authors aspire to facilitate accessibility for systematists and researchers in the field, ultimately reinforcing the significance of the University of Kansas' collection in the broader context of amphibian and reptile studies.
A Review of the Frogs of the Hyla bistincta Group
"A Review of the Frogs of the Hyla bistincta Group" by William Edward Duellman is a scientific publication crafted during the early 1960s. This work primarily focuses on the classification and characteristics of a group of frogs within the genus Hyla, specifically the Hyla bistincta group, which includes several species found in the mountainous regions of Middle America. The book combines extensive field research and morphological analysis to provide an in-depth examination of these amphibians. In this review, Duellman presents detailed accounts of five species within the Hyla bistincta group, including their distinctive morphological traits, habitats, and breeding behaviors. Each species is assessed systematically, featuring descriptions of their physical characteristics and behaviors, such as coloration patterns and calling abilities. The work highlights the evolutionary relationships among these frogs, noting adaptations for aquatic life and emphasizing the ecological contexts in which they thrive. By examining specimens from various collections and providing comparative data, Duellman contributes significantly to the understanding of these hylid frogs and their classification within the broader amphibian family.
Amphibians and Reptiles of the Rainforests of Southern El Petén, Guatemala
"Amphibians and Reptiles of the Rainforests of Southern El Petén, Guatemala" by William E. Duellman is a scientific publication written in the early 1960s. This work details the diverse herpetofauna of southern El Petén, focusing on amphibians and reptiles in the unique rainforest ecosystems of Guatemala. The study is rooted in field research conducted in 1960, highlighting the significance of this rich biodiversity and presenting taxonomic information, ecological observations, and descriptions of various species encountered. At the start of the publication, the author outlines the background of the research, including the geographical context and the facilities provided by the Ohio Oil Company during fieldwork. He provides descriptions of the rainforest environment, including its physiography, climate, and vegetation, which are crucial for understanding the habitat of the studied species. Additionally, Duellman introduces the methodology of specimen collection and acknowledges contributors to the research. The opening lays the groundwork for detailed assessments of the species accounts that follow, setting the stage for a comprehensive look at the amphibians and reptiles thriving in this biodiverse region.
Middle American Frogs of the Hyla microcephala Group
"Middle American Frogs of the Hyla microcephala Group" by William E. Duellman and M.J. Fouquette, Jr. is a scientific publication written in the late 20th century. This work dives into the taxonomy, ecology, and evolutionary relationships of small yellow tree frogs found in southern Mexico and Central America, specifically those belonging to the Hyla microcephala group. The book presents extensive research findings, including details on species identification, mating calls, and life history. The opening of this study establishes the authors' credentials and their collaborative efforts over eleven years to study the Hyla microcephala group in the field. It highlights the complexity and confusion in the classification of these frogs, initiated by prior researchers' lack of familiarity with the species and their variations. The introduction outlines the methodologies utilized in their research, including fieldwork, analysis of mating calls, and cranial osteology, setting the stage for a comprehensive examination of the species involved in this distinct ecological niche.
A Review of the Middle American Tree Frogs of the Genus Ptychohyla
"A Review of the Middle American Tree Frogs of the Genus Ptychohyla" by William E. Duellman is a scientific publication written in the early 1960s. The work focuses extensively on the anatomy, morphology, and ecological characteristics of the Ptychohyla frogs found in the cloud forests of Middle America. It likely serves as a vital resource for researchers and enthusiasts interested in the taxonomy and biology of these specific hylid frogs. The opening of the publication lays the groundwork for a detailed analysis of the Ptychohyla genus, highlighting the obscure status of many species due to limited previous research. Duellman discusses his own efforts in collecting specimens, recording breeding calls, and the challenges faced in studying these frogs in their natural mountainous habitats. He provides insight into the methodology of his research and the background of prior studies, indicating the need for a comprehensive overview of the species known up to that time, as well as the various life history aspects that remain under-explored.
A Taxonomic Study of the Middle American Snake, Pituophis deppei
"A Taxonomic Study of the Middle American Snake, Pituophis deppei" by William E. Duellman is a scientific publication written in the mid-20th century. This work focuses on the classification and differentiation of the snake species Pituophis deppei, particularly in the context of its populations in the Mexican state of Michoacán. The book lays out the findings from field studies, museum specimen examinations, and taxonomic reviews of historical literature related to this species and its subspecies. In this detailed taxonomic study, Duellman examines various relationships within the Pituophis deppei complex, including its subspecies and their morphological variations, particularly in terms of coloration and scale counts. The author presents evidence that supports the existence of distinct species and subspecies through careful analysis of over a hundred museum specimens as well as field observations. The study also includes historical perspectives on the classification of these snakes, nuances in geographical distributions, and a comprehensive examination of the scale and color variation among populations, contributing valuable insights into the biodiversity and ecology of Middle American snakes.
A New Subspecies of Lizard, Cnemidophorus sacki, from Michoacán, México
"A New Subspecies of Lizard, Cnemidophorus sacki, from Michoacán, México" by William E. Duellman is a scientific publication written in the mid-20th century, specifically in the early 1960s. This work focuses on the systematic study and classification of a newly identified subspecies of the lizard Cnemidophorus sacki found in Michoacán, Mexico. It contributes to the field of herpetology by providing detailed descriptions and distinguishing characteristics of this subspecies. In the publication, Duellman describes the distinctive features of the Cnemidophorus sacki zweifeli, elaborating on its size, coloration, and morphological differences compared to other subspecies. The study includes a holistic examination from field studies, discussing habitat preferences, variations in size and color, and sexual dimorphism. Additionally, the lizard's ecological behavior during different seasons and its geographic distribution within the Tepalcatepec Valley is thoroughly analyzed. The work not only provides insights into this particular subspecies but also highlights the importance of taxonomy and field research in understanding biodiversity.
Descriptions of Two Species of Frogs, Genus Ptychohyla Studies of American Hylid Frogs, V
"Descriptions of Two Species of Frogs, Genus Ptychohyla" by William Edward Duellman is a scientific publication written in the early 1960s. This work is part of the "Studies of American Hylid Frogs" series and focuses on two newly identified species of frogs within the genus Ptychohyla. The book details the findings of field studies conducted in southern Mexico and northern Central America, particularly highlighting the previously underrepresented specimens of this genus. In this publication, Duellman introduces two new species: Ptychohyla ignicolor and Ptychohyla chamulae, derived from extensive field research in the cloud forests of Oaxaca and Chiapas, respectively. The text provides a thorough description of each species, including their physical characteristics, habitat preferences, and acoustic signaling patterns. The paper also contains detailed polytypic comparisons to other known species, illustrating the distinctiveness of these new frogs based on morphological and behavioral attributes. By documenting these species, Duellman's work contributes valuable insights into the biodiversity of hylid frogs and emphasizes the ecological significance of their natural habitats.
Systematic Status of the Colubrid Snake, Leptodeira discolor Günther
"Systematic Status of the Colubrid Snake, Leptodeira discolor Günther" by William E. Duellman is a scientific publication written in the mid-20th century. This paper focuses on the taxonomic classification and systematic status of the colubrid snake species Leptodeira discolor, which was originally described in the 19th century. It explores the anatomical features of the species, drawing upon a specimen from Oaxaca, Mexico, to establish its relationships within the broader classification of snakes. The book presents a detailed examination of the Leptodeira discolor, analyzing its scutellation, coloration, skull structure, and hemipenes. Duellman proposes a new genus, Tantalophis, for this species, emphasizing the need for further research to clarify its relationships with other colubrid genera. The paper discusses the unique anatomical features observed in the examined specimen and considers the implications of these characteristics in understanding the evolutionary history of colubrid snakes, emphasizing the complexities of establishing taxonomic relationships within this group.
The Genera of Phyllomedusine Frogs (Anura: Hylidae)
"The Genera of Phyllomedusine Frogs (Anura: Hylidae)" by William Edward Duellman is a scientific publication written in the late 20th century. This work focuses on the classification and characteristics of a distinct group of Neotropical hylid frogs known as phyllomedusines. The book investigates their unique traits, such as vertical pupils and specific reproductive behaviors, and aims to clarify their phylogenetic relationships within the Hylidae family. In this publication, Duellman provides an in-depth examination of the genera within the phyllomedusine lineage, discussing the morphological, chromosomal, and behavioral aspects that differentiate these frogs from other hylids. He details the classification of three main genera: "Phyllomedusa", "Agalychnis", and a newly proposed genus, "Pachymedusa". The book also delves into evolutionary adaptations of these frogs to arboreal life and examines their reproductive strategies, particularly their unique method of egg deposition. Overall, it serves as an essential resource for herpetologists and those interested in amphibian biology and taxonomy.
Descriptions of New Hylid Frogs From Mexico and Central America
"Descriptions of New Hylid Frogs From Mexico and Central America" by William E. Duellman is a scientific publication produced in the late 20th century, specifically in 1968. The book focuses on the biodiversity and classification of new hylid frogs discovered in Mexico and Central America, documenting several new species and subspecies identified during Duellman’s fieldwork in these regions. In this publication, Duellman presents detailed descriptions, diagnoses, and comments on the relationships of five new species and one subspecies of hylid frogs. The text includes thorough anatomical and morphological analyses, comparing these species with known relatives, and describing their distinctive traits. The findings are based on a combination of fieldwork and analysis of specimens, highlighting the diversity of amphibian life in the highlands of Central America and Mexico, particularly in less accessible areas where new species continue to be discovered. The text serves as an essential contribution to the understanding of hylid diversity, ecology, and conservation in these regions.