Biogeography of Illinois Reptiles and Amphibians: A Numerical Analysis

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Abstract
This study describes biogeograhic patterns of Amphibia and Reptilia in the state of Illinosis, USA using numerical taxonomic methods. The 102 Illinois counties were characterized by the presence vs. absence of amphibian and reptilian species, and by their vegetation, climate and drainage patterns. The counties then served as Operational Taxonomic Units in cluster and principal components analyses. The purpose was to define herpetofaunal regions of the state and their relationships to other environmental variables. Reptilian distribution patterns were highly correlated with climate and vegetation; those of the Amphibia corresponded more closely with drainage patterns. Cluster and principal components analyses together showed different aspects of these relationships.