Herpetologists conducted a study on the species diversity of amphibians in eighty small ponds located within the grounds of Buddhist and Shinto temples in Kyoto. Various methods were used for the analysis, including direct visual and acoustic observations, as well as environmental DNA analysis.
During the work, scientists managed to record the presence of six native (indigenous) species of frogs and toads. In addition to these, one invasive species of frog and one indigenous species of newt were found in the ponds.
According to data published in the journal Urban Ecosystems, the results indicate that even in areas altered by human activity, temple grounds can serve as refuges for diverse flora and fauna.